-
On December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, recognizing his efforts to promote peace and unity globally. The ceremony coincided with the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, hosted across the US, Mexico, and Canada. The prize, a departure from FIFA's traditional sports focus, sparked controversy due to Infantino's close ties with Trump and ongoing political tensions.
-
UBS's latest report shows a record increase in billionaires worldwide, reaching 2,919 with collective wealth of $15.8 trillion. Women are outpacing men in wealth growth for four consecutive years, and inheritance continues to drive the rise, especially in the US and Europe. The billionaire class is diversifying and expanding rapidly.
-
On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will take place at Washington's Kennedy Center, attended by US President Donald Trump. The expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 12 groups of four teams. Scotland, having qualified after 28 years, awaits its group opponents and fixture details, with the tournament running June 11 to July 19, 2026.
-
Two months after a US-backed ceasefire, Israel has violated it over 500 times, killing over 356 Palestinians and causing Gaza's death toll to exceed 70,000. Despite claims of peace, Israel continues military operations, destruction, and restrictions, with international protests demanding an end to the ongoing violence.
-
The 2026 World Cup draw took place at the Kennedy Center, featuring entertainment, political figures, and star-studded moments. The event announced the 12 groups for the expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, with notable attendance by President Trump and other leaders.
-
The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw has been finalized, revealing group placements for 48 teams across North America. Key details include host country allocations, seedings, and match schedules, with the tournament set to begin on June 11, 2026, in Canada, Mexico, and the US. The draw determines group compositions and knockout matchups.
-
Jihadist groups in Mali have intensified fuel blockades, disrupting medical services, economy, and security. Western nations advise citizens to leave as the government struggles to contain armed groups and maintain stability five years after a military coup.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Mali faces escalating insecurity as jihadist groups, notably JNIM, intensify attacks, impose fuel blockades, and cause regional refugee flows. Despite government claims of mitigation, insurgents expand into neighboring Ivory Coast, worsening economic and humanitarian conditions amid regional instability.
-
On 25 November 2025, the UK government announced sweeping asylum reforms inspired by Denmark's strict system. Refugee status will be temporary, reviewed every 30 months, with a 20-year wait for permanent settlement. The government plans to remove support for asylum seekers able to work and forcibly remove families, including children, sparking backlash from Labour MPs, refugee groups, and campaigners.
-
As of November 24, 2025, Iran is pushing for a resumption of stalled nuclear negotiations with the U.S., using Saudi Arabia as a mediator amid fears of renewed Israeli strikes and economic strain. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is visiting France to urge compliance with IAEA obligations, while Tehran denies undeclared enrichment and insists on its right to peaceful nuclear energy.
-
Recent stories highlight how GLP-1 medications like Ozempic are influencing Thanksgiving celebrations, with families reducing traditional carb-heavy dishes and sweets. Some individuals are substituting ingredients to maintain their diets, while others are opting for unconventional family gatherings, including vacations, to avoid traditional feasts.
-
As of December 1, 2025, Airbus has completed software updates on the vast majority of its 6,000 affected A320-family jets worldwide following a recall triggered by a JetBlue flight incident in late October. The fix, primarily a rollback to earlier software versions, addresses data corruption caused by intense solar radiation affecting flight controls. Most aircraft are back in service, with fewer than 100 still pending updates.
-
France is investigating major online platforms including Vinted, Shein, AliExpress, Temu, and Wish for allowing illicit and inappropriate content accessible to minors. Authorities focus on illegal products and potential exploitation of children, amid broader efforts to regulate foreign e-commerce giants operating in France.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Americans continue to favor side dishes over turkey for Thanksgiving, with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and sweet potatoes remaining top choices. Regional and generational preferences influence dish popularity, while grocery deals aim to ease holiday costs amid inflation. The cost of a full meal for 10 is estimated at $55.18.
-
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.
-
Iraq secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning their Asian playoff. The tournament will expand to 48 teams, with qualifiers from six continents. The draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C., with the final tournament beginning in June 2026 across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
-
The US supports a plan to create 'safe communities' in Gaza, dividing the territory into Israeli-controlled zones and others. Construction of compounds for displaced Palestinians is underway, but details on funding, infrastructure, and governance remain uncertain amid ongoing conflict and political disagreements.
-
A new 28-point framework, developed through US-Russia talks, proposes security guarantees for Ukraine, territorial recognitions, and economic reintegration of Russia. The plan favors Russia, with Ukraine expected to cede territory and abandon NATO ambitions. Ongoing negotiations are leaning towards Russian interests, with initial impressions showing a heavily Russia-favorable stance.
-
On November 22, 2025, the COP30 climate summit in Belem, Brazil, concluded with a deal urging accelerated climate action and tripling adaptation finance by 2035. However, the agreement omitted a fossil fuel phase-out roadmap amid opposition from major oil producers, sparking criticism from many nations and climate advocates.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Elio Perisco was sentenced to nearly five years in jail for operating a speedboat while intoxicated, which resulted in the death of Adrienne Vaughan in August 2023. He faced manslaughter and negligent injury charges after crashing into a larger ship while high on cocaine and alcohol. Vaughan was sunbathing on her boat when she was killed by the propeller. Witnesses reported Perisco was drunk, and a drug test confirmed cocaine and alcohol in his system. The incident caused chaos on the water, with Vaughan's family mourning her loss. The case highlights dangers of impaired boating and legal consequences for such actions. Today’s date is Sat, 22 Nov 2025.
-
The UK is implementing strict refugee policies inspired by Denmark, including shorter residence rights, asset seizures, and frequent status reviews. Critics warn these measures could increase racism and harm integration, echoing Denmark's experience of rising far-right support and social division.
-
Australia plans to enforce a ban on social media accounts for users under 16 starting December 10, aiming to protect children from online harms. The government is reviewing mechanisms used in other countries, including Malaysia, to implement age restrictions and ensure platform compliance.
-
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.
-
Recent reports highlight ongoing efforts in Israel and the US to reduce food waste, emphasizing planning, food reuse, and policy measures. Israel has cut per capita waste by 13.3%, while the US faces significant waste from over-preparation, with experts advocating for better planning and food recycling to mitigate environmental and social impacts.
-
Russia's Su-57 fighter jet has been delivered to an unnamed foreign customer, with reports indicating Algeria as a likely recipient. The aircraft is in combat duty, and Russia's defense industry continues to expand exports despite sanctions and production challenges. Ukraine remains reliant on Western aircraft amid ongoing conflict.
-
Hezbollah buried commander Haytham Tabatabai in Beirut amid protests and Israeli drone activity. The group vows to respond to Israel’s recent targeted killing, raising fears of escalation. The funeral highlights ongoing tensions following Israel’s strike and Hezbollah’s vow to defend its weapons and land.
-
Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi will meet with French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot in Paris this week to urge Iran to resume cooperation with the IAEA amid ongoing tensions over nuclear inspections. The meeting follows increased sanctions and Iran's recent suspension of IAEA cooperation after a war with Israel. Iran emphasizes regional shifts and rejects US conditions for talks.
-
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.
-
A French ticket holder has claimed a €179 million (£157 million) EuroMillions jackpot, one of the year's largest. The winning numbers were 5, 29, 33, 39, 42, with Lucky Stars 3 and 9. The winner has not yet come forward. The next jackpot is €105 million, with other UK winners also announced.
-
European authorities, led by the European Commission, are scrutinizing Shein for selling illegal products, including childlike sex dolls and weapons. France has suspended Shein's website amid investigations, and the EU has requested detailed compliance information. Sweden and France are actively pursuing legal actions and policy responses.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Families and activists in Alabama criticize the state's prison system, citing human rights violations and planning a work stoppage. Meanwhile, in Idaho, investigations into staff sexual abuse have led to reopening cases after years of neglect. France faces prison escapes amid overcrowding issues.
-
Iran's rial hits a new record low against the dollar, driven by stalled negotiations and ongoing sanctions. Food prices rise, and fears grow over potential conflict escalation and economic stability. The situation reflects Iran's strained economy since the US withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018.
-
Belgian authorities raided the College of Europe and EU diplomatic offices, detaining Federica Mogherini and Stefano Sannino amid investigations into procurement fraud, corruption, and conflict of interest related to a 2021-2022 EU-funded diplomat training program. Both were later released without charges.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Thieves broke into a French snail farm in Bouzy on Nov. 24, stealing nearly 1,000 pounds of escargot valued at over $100,000. The theft, timed before the holiday season, likely involved industry insiders, impacting high-end restaurants and tourism. Police have no suspects yet.
-
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.
-
Multiple drones were detected over the Île Longue base in Brittany, France, home to nuclear submarines. French military intercepted the overflight, but details on the number, origin, and response remain unclear. The incident follows recent drone activity across Europe, raising security concerns.