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Prime Minister Starmer emphasizes a balanced, realistic approach to China, acknowledging its global significance and security threats. He criticizes past inconsistent policies and signals a shift towards engagement in non-security areas, while maintaining a firm stance on security. The government considers a controversial Chinese embassy plan and prepares for a possible visit to China next year.
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On November 13, 2015, jihadists carried out coordinated attacks in Paris, killing 130 people. Today, France commemorates the victims with ceremonies at attack sites, a memorial garden, and a football match. Survivors and officials reflect on the enduring impact of the tragedy, a decade on.
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As of November 27, 2025, the US has boycotted the G20 summit in Johannesburg, citing unsubstantiated claims of persecution against white Afrikaners and land confiscation. South Africa, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, condemned the boycott as based on misinformation and confirmed its full G20 membership. Despite US absence, the summit proceeded with a declaration addressing global challenges, supported by most members except the US and Argentina.
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European tensions over Chinese-controlled Nexperia 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. (Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:45:09 +0000)
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Israeli forces continue demolitions and conduct strikes in Gaza, despite a ceasefire. Palestinian casualties rise, rescue efforts recover bodies, and aid access remains restricted. Israel and US discuss Hamas fighters' deportation, while Israeli legislation targets media and prisoners. The region remains volatile.
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On November 13, 2015, Paris was struck by coordinated terrorist attacks killing 130 people, including at the Bataclan concert hall. Commemorations mark the decade since, with memorials, ceremonies, and ongoing reflection on the trauma and security impacts. Survivors and victims' families continue to grapple with lasting trauma.
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Ukrainian forces are engaged in heavy fighting across multiple regions amid ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes. Kyiv reports advances and setbacks, while international efforts focus on sanctions and diplomacy. The conflict remains highly active as Ukraine seeks military and economic support today, Nov 20, 2025.
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On November 26, 2025, France's Court of Cassation upheld former President Nicolas Sarkozy's definitive conviction for illegal campaign financing, confirming a one-year prison sentence with half suspended. Meanwhile, Algerian-French writer Boualem Sansal was pardoned by Algeria's President Tebboune following a humanitarian appeal from Germany, allowing Sansal to receive cancer treatment in Germany and easing Franco-Algerian tensions.
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AIDOL, Russia's first AI-powered humanoid robot, faceplanted during its Moscow debut, drawing viral attention. Developers attribute the fall to calibration and lighting issues, emphasizing it as part of normal technological development. The incident highlights Russia's emerging presence in AI robotics amid global competition.
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Between November 19-25, 2025, Russia launched massive drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, targeting energy and transport infrastructure across multiple regions including Kyiv and Ternopil. The assaults caused widespread power outages amid freezing temperatures, destroyed residential buildings killing at least 31 civilians including children, and left dozens missing. Ukraine responded with long-range strikes on Russian energy facilities.
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Germany's government is engaging in high-level talks with China to address trade issues, including rare earths and supply chain concerns. Chancellor Merz's coalition aims to reduce dependency on China and bolster economic resilience, amid rising tensions and a record trade deficit. The visit signals a strategic shift in Germany's China policy.
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On November 13, 2015, ISIL terrorists carried out coordinated attacks in Paris, killing 130 people. The tenth anniversary was marked with memorials and reflections on the trauma, with survivors sharing ongoing struggles. New investigations reveal allegations of war-time human safaris in Bosnia, adding to the story's dark history.
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Camilo Castro, a Colombian resident, was released after being detained in Venezuela since June. French diplomacy, credited by officials, facilitated his return to France amid concerns over enforced disappearances by Venezuelan authorities following disputed elections.
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Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies have uncovered a scheme involving kickbacks and embezzlement within key energy companies, including Energoatom. The investigation, ongoing for 15 months, has led to arrests, resignations, and calls for reforms amid Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure.
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Ukraine and France have agreed on a decade-long defense cooperation, including the supply of Rafale jets and air defense systems, amid ongoing Russian attacks. The deal aims to bolster Ukraine’s long-term military capabilities, with delivery timelines extending to 2035, signaling European commitment despite political and logistical challenges.
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The European Commission is moving to delay and relax key digital regulations, including AI and data privacy laws, citing the need to boost competitiveness. Critics warn this marks a retreat from Europe's leadership in digital rights, amid US and Chinese competition. The changes aim to simplify rules for businesses, especially startups, but raise concerns over privacy and innovation.
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The Louvre faces structural issues following a recent jewel heist and ongoing renovations. A technical report revealed fragile beams in the Sully wing, prompting closures and staff relocations. The museum is under scrutiny for security lapses, with criticism mounting over its preparedness for such incidents. The situation remains tense as investigations continue.
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In late November and early December 2025, Russia intensified missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities including Kyiv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, and Ternopil, targeting energy infrastructure and civilian areas, causing deaths and injuries. Concurrently, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy engaged in diplomatic efforts with U.S. and European leaders to revive peace negotiations, despite Russia's refusal to participate directly in talks.
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Ukraine launched a drone attack on Novorossiysk, Russia's key oil export port and Black Sea Fleet hub, targeting energy infrastructure. The strike damaged military and civilian sites, with reports of a damaged landing ship. Ukraine aims to weaken Russia's energy revenue amid ongoing conflict.
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Recent reports highlight concerns over the UK’s military preparedness amid rising threats from Russia and China. Despite government promises to boost defence spending and build new factories, MPs warn that the UK lacks a comprehensive plan to defend itself and its territories, with funding and strategic gaps remaining unaddressed.
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The killing of Mehdi Kessaci, brother of activist Amine Kessaci, has intensified efforts to combat drug crime in Marseille. Authorities suspect the murder was ordered from the top of organized crime to intimidate. Macron and local officials are deploying stronger law enforcement measures amid ongoing turf wars and violence linked to drug trafficking.
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As of early December 2025, French authorities have arrested and charged all suspects involved in the October 19 daylight robbery of $102 million worth of French crown jewels from the Louvre. The four-person gang used a freight lift and angle grinders to break into the Apollo Gallery, escaping on scooters. The stolen jewels remain missing, prompting major security upgrades at the museum.
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French authorities detained four individuals linked to the SOS Donbass group, suspecting espionage activities aimed at France. The arrests follow investigations into pro-Russian propaganda and attempts to gather economic intelligence amid heightened tensions over Russia's actions in Ukraine. The case highlights ongoing concerns about Russian influence in Europe.
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Ukraine is under intense pressure as the US proposes a 28-point peace plan heavily favoring Russia, including territorial concessions and military limits. Zelensky warns of a tough decision between dignity and key alliances amid battlefield setbacks and domestic crises. European leaders support Ukraine but express concern over the plan's fairness.
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France and Germany aim to build a new sixth-generation fighter jet despite internal disagreements. The project, part of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), faces delays over leadership disputes between Dassault and Airbus. Political leaders are seeking a resolution amid broader European defense ambitions. Today's date is Tue, 02 Dec 2025.
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The U.S. proposes a 28-point peace plan endorsing Russian demands, prompting mixed reactions from Ukraine and European allies. Zelensky warns of a tough choice between sovereignty and support, while Russia signals possible objections. The plan's implications could reshape ongoing negotiations and regional stability.
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The G20 summit in South Africa concluded with tensions over the presidency handover, as the U.S. boycotted the event citing alleged anti-white policies. Despite this, the summit highlighted issues like global inequality, debt relief, climate resilience, and regional trade, emphasizing South Africa's focus on inclusive development for the Global South.
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President Trump boycotted the G20 summit hosted by South Africa, citing claims of white persecution. South Africa pushed for a declaration on global issues, but US opposition hindered consensus. The summit focused on climate, development, and inequality, with US and South Africa at odds.
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A 20-year-old man, Mehdi Kessaci, was shot in Marseille last week, believed to be ordered by drug gangs to intimidate his activist brother. The incident highlights ongoing violence linked to organized crime, with authorities increasing efforts to combat drug trafficking and gang-related murders in France.
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European leaders, the UK, and Ukraine are negotiating over a US-backed peace plan for Ukraine, set with a deadline of November 27. The plan involves territorial concessions and military limitations, sparking concern among allies about Ukraine's security and sovereignty amid ongoing diplomatic efforts in Geneva and Washington.
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Western officials, including EU and US representatives, have expressed skepticism about a US-led peace plan for Ukraine. They emphasize the need for Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and European integration, while highlighting major flaws in the proposed agreement. The plan's future remains uncertain.
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Leaked US peace plan prompts international negotiations involving over 30 nations. While some progress is reported, key issues remain unresolved, including territorial concessions and NATO membership. Leaders emphasize the importance of a just and lasting peace amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic efforts in Geneva.
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The Biden administration is moving to designate chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon as foreign terrorist organizations, citing their support for violence and destabilization. The move follows regional crackdowns and regional tensions, with the process including reports from US agencies and potential legal challenges.
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Recent Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities continue despite ongoing diplomatic talks. The U.S., Russia, and Ukraine are engaged in negotiations over a peace plan, with European leaders emphasizing Ukraine's sovereignty. Ukraine faces military and economic pressures, including a new IMF aid package.
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France announced plans to reintroduce a voluntary military service for 18-19-year-olds, starting next summer, amid rising security concerns linked to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The program aims to bolster military manpower and national resilience, with initial recruitment of 2,000-3,000 volunteers, expanding to 50,000 annually.
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U.S. officials report progress toward a Ukraine-Russia peace agreement, with Ukraine agreeing to revised terms. Talks in Abu Dhabi involve U.S. and Russian delegates, amid ongoing Russian missile strikes on Kyiv. Key details remain unresolved, and skepticism persists among European leaders.
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U.S. and Ukrainian officials are engaged in ongoing negotiations with Russia, with recent talks indicating progress on a peace framework. The U.S. has sent envoys to Moscow to discuss recognition of occupied territories, while Russia maintains maximalist demands. Fighting continues in Ukraine as diplomatic efforts intensify.
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The European Parliament has approved a non-binding resolution calling for an EU-wide ban on social media access for children under 16, with stricter limits for those under 13. The move aims to address concerns over mental health and addictive design features, amid ongoing debates and Australia's upcoming social media ban for under-16s.
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President Macron announced a voluntary military service for 18- and 19-year-olds, aiming to bolster France's defense amid rising European security concerns. The program, costing €2 billion, will last 10 months and is part of a broader effort to increase reservists and military capacity by 2030.
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French President Macron is working to secure the release of Christophe Gleizes, a French sports journalist sentenced to seven years in Algeria for terrorism-related charges. Gleizes was arrested in May 2024 while reporting on football in Kabylia. His case reflects ongoing diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria, especially after France's recognition of Western Sahara sovereignty.
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The Louvre will increase ticket prices for non-EU visitors from January 14, aiming to raise €23 million annually for a €1.3 billion renovation plan. The move follows a high-profile jewelry theft in October and is part of the 'Louvre — New Renaissance' initiative to modernize infrastructure, improve security, and reduce overcrowding.
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On December 3, 2025, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier began a three-day state visit to the UK, the first by a German leader in 27 years. Hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, the visit highlights renewed UK-Germany ties post-Brexit, including the Kensington Treaty, and features commemorations of WWII tragedies and cooperation on Ukraine and migration.
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Kyiv is resisting a US-backed peace plan that aligns with Russia's demands. Talks in Florida and Geneva involve Ukrainian, US, and Russian officials aiming to find a pathway to peace and security guarantees amid ongoing conflict and recent military attacks. Zelenskiy emphasizes Ukraine's commitment to diplomatic efforts today, December 2, 2025.
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Russia announced the capture of Pokrovsk, a strategic city in eastern Ukraine, amid ongoing fighting. Ukraine denies full control, and the situation reflects Russia's slow territorial gains in the Donbas. Peace talks are ongoing, with US envoy visits coinciding with the claims.
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Russia and the US have held high-level talks over Ukraine, but no breakthrough has been reached. Russia remains firm on territorial demands, while Ukraine insists on maintaining control. Ongoing fighting and diplomatic efforts continue as both sides explore potential compromises, with key issues including territory and security guarantees.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned last month that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could provoke a response from Tokyo. Meanwhile, China seeks stronger communication with France and the UK on regional issues, emphasizing the 'One China' principle amid ongoing tensions over Taiwan and Ukraine.
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French President Emmanuel Macron visited China for a three-day trip focused on trade and diplomacy. Key topics included involving Beijing in pressuring Russia for a Ukraine ceasefire, strengthening bilateral ties, and addressing trade imbalances. Xi pledged support for peace efforts and announced economic cooperation, while trade disputes and geopolitical tensions remain unresolved.
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U.S. diplomats, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, are engaging with Russia and Ukraine to broker peace talks amid ongoing fighting in Ukraine. Recent discussions with Putin suggest Russia may be open to negotiations, but key territorial demands remain unresolved. The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts intensify today.
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Germany's parliament approved legislation to expand its military, aiming for 260,000 soldiers by 2035. The law includes sending questionnaires to 18-year-olds about willingness to serve, mandatory medical checks for men, and a dual-track recruitment system. Reintroduction of conscription remains a possibility if volunteer numbers fall short.