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Speculation grows that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is eyeing a Westminster return, with reports of a 'nailed-on' seat. Burnham dismisses the stories, while Labour insiders debate the hurdles he faces amid internal party tensions and poll setbacks. The story highlights ongoing leadership tensions within Labour as the party faces electoral challenges.
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UK officials warn of rising threats from Russia, emphasizing the need for societal and military preparedness. Military leaders call for faster defense spending and national resilience, with plans for new arms factories and enhanced intelligence capabilities amid warnings of possible conflict with Russia.
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The European Commission is reviewing climate and emissions policies, including a proposed emissions trading scheme set for 2027, amid member states' concerns over rising costs and feasibility. Discussions include potential delays and adjustments to meet economic and environmental goals, with upcoming announcements expected this week.
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As of October 24, 2025, EU leaders have postponed a decision on a €140 billion loan to Ukraine, secured against frozen Russian central bank assets held mainly in Belgium. Belgium demands legal guarantees against liability risks, delaying approval. The European Commission will draft financing options for the next summit. Ukraine urgently needs funds for 2026-27 amid ongoing conflict.
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Ukraine reports over 450 drone and missile strikes targeting energy infrastructure, killing civilians and causing widespread power outages. Russia continues its military offensive, including house-by-house fighting in key towns, while Ukraine strengthens its air defenses amid ongoing conflict.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Turkey and reaffirmed Germany's support for Israel's right to self-defense amid tensions with Turkish President Erdogan. Erdogan criticized Israel's actions in Gaza, accusing it of genocide and seeking to suppress Palestinians through famine and violence. The visit highlighted NATO tensions and differing views on the Gaza conflict.
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German Chancellor Merz met with Turkish President Erdogan, emphasizing strategic partnership. The visit follows Turkey's recent purchase of Eurofighter jets from the UK and Germany's support for Turkey's role in a European defense initiative. Disputes over human rights and Gaza remain unresolved.
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Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized ongoing efforts to disarm Hamas and demilitarize Gaza, amid US-led international negotiations excluding Turkey. Israel warns of stronger military responses if ceasefire violations continue, while the US advances plans for an international force to oversee disarmament, with disagreements over Turkish participation.
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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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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, 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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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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Germany has suspended its program to relocate about 2,000 Afghans at risk under Taliban rule, citing migration concerns. Approved individuals in Pakistan face delays or offers of financial incentives to return to Afghanistan or third countries. Some approved refugees have arrived in Germany, but the scheme remains largely halted.
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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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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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Multiple Russian strikes hit Kyiv and surrounding areas today, injuring at least 11 people, damaging infrastructure, and causing fires. The attack coincides with EU warnings on corruption and aid continuation as Kyiv faces ongoing invasion pressures. The situation remains tense and ongoing.
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Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman and Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides will meet at the UN peacekeeping envoy's residence to discuss reunification efforts. Erhurman, elected in October, aims to revive stalled negotiations, while Turkey's Erdogan advocates a two-state solution, complicating prospects for reunification.
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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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The U.S. has removed tariffs on Brazilian coffee, beef, and fruits, after negotiations with Brazil's government. The move aims to lower costs for American consumers and improve trade relations, reversing previous tariffs imposed amid political tensions and trade disputes.
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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.
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A UNCTAD report estimates Gaza's reconstruction will cost over $70 billion and take decades, citing war and restrictions that have caused an unprecedented economic collapse. Israeli military actions continue despite a ceasefire, with ongoing violations and casualties. The West Bank also faces severe downturns.
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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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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faced criticism after comments made during a trip to Brazil, where he expressed satisfaction about returning home from climate talks in Belém. Brazilian officials and local politicians responded sharply, questioning his remarks and accusing him of prejudice and arrogance. The controversy highlights tensions over climate diplomacy and bilateral relations.
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Russia launched drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, targeting Kyiv and energy infrastructure, amid ongoing peace negotiations. The U.S. and Ukraine are revising a 28-point peace plan, while regional airspace breaches prompt NATO and Romanian military responses. Diplomatic talks continue with uncertain outcomes.
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Russian missile strikes in Ternopil killed at least 25 people, including children, and injured dozens. The attack targeted residential buildings, causing fires and hazardous chlorine levels. Ukraine plans to raise the incident at the UN, amid ongoing conflict and missile exchanges across Ukraine.
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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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U.S. officials dispute the origin of a proposed peace plan for Ukraine, which calls for major concessions. Zelensky and allies oppose the plan, fearing it rewards Russia. The plan's authorship and intent remain contested amid diplomatic negotiations and internal disagreements.
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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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Poland and Germany are set to meet in Berlin to discuss the return of cultural artifacts looted during WWII, including a sculpture from Malbork Castle and Teutonic Order archives. The meeting also addresses security issues amid ongoing tensions over Holocaust memory and Polish-German relations.
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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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As of December 11, 2025, the Gaza ceasefire brokered by the US and regional mediators since October 10 remains fragile. Hamas is open to a weapons freeze but rejects full disarmament demanded by Israel under Trump's 20-point plan. Israeli forces maintain control over half of Gaza, with ongoing disputes over prisoner exchanges, international peacekeeping deployment, and the reopening of border crossings.
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Germany's parliament approved a pension package maintaining current benefits until 2031, with abstentions from the far-left and some conservative youth members. The vote highlights coalition fragility and ongoing debates over future pension reforms amid political disagreements and demographic challenges.
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As of December 11, 2025, the EU faces internal divisions over a €90 billion 'reparations loan' to fund Ukraine's 2026-27 budget using frozen Russian assets, mainly held in Belgium's Euroclear. Belgium opposes the plan, fearing legal and financial risks, demanding risk-sharing guarantees. The European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, insists the plan is crucial for Ukraine's defense and peace leverage, while Russia condemns it as theft.
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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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The ICC faces internal and external pressures as US sanctions target staff, including the acting prosecutor Karim Niang, amid ongoing investigations into US and Israeli officials. The court's independence is reaffirmed, but member withdrawals and delays in internal probes threaten its future. The 24th Assembly is ongoing today.
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Leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, and the US are engaging in high-level discussions to broker a ceasefire and peace agreement in Ukraine. While diplomatic efforts advance, Russia continues missile strikes, complicating negotiations. The US emphasizes security guarantees and European involvement in the process.
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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.
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On December 6-7, 2025, Russia launched a large-scale drone and missile attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and causing widespread power outages, including at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. Ukrainian forces intercepted most attacks. Concurrently, US-mediated peace talks continue, with progress dependent on Russia's commitment to peace.
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German leader Friedrich Merz visited Israel and Jordan amid ongoing Gaza conflict, reaffirming support for Israel while navigating strained relations over arms exports and Netanyahu's ICC arrest warrant. The trip highlights Germany's balancing act between historical responsibility and current geopolitical interests.
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On December 6-8, 2025, the US released a National Security Strategy under President Trump, sharply criticizing Europe’s self-confidence and immigration policies, warning of 'civilizational erasure,' and signaling a pivot to the Indo-Pacific and Latin America. The strategy calls for ending the Ukraine war and restoring strategic stability with Russia, which Moscow welcomed. European leaders strongly rebuked the document, emphasizing alliance shifts and defending European sovereignty.
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As of December 14, 2025, Ukrainian President Zelensky met with US envoys and European leaders in Berlin and London to discuss a US-backed peace plan aimed at ending the nearly four-year war with Russia. Ukraine is willing to forgo NATO membership for strong US security guarantees but refuses to cede control of the Donbas region. Russia continues military assaults and drone attacks amid stalled negotiations.
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Hamas and Israel are preparing for the second phase of a US-backed ceasefire, focusing on disarmament, troop withdrawal, and Gaza reconstruction. Mediation continues, with international forces expected early next year. Key issues include Hamas's weapons storage and Israeli troop pullback, amid ongoing violence and negotiations.
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As of December 11, 2025, Ukraine's President Zelenskyy and European leaders are urgently negotiating a US-backed peace plan amid pressure from US President Trump to accept terms ceding territory to Russia. Ukraine launched a major drone attack on Moscow airports, signaling military capability. Talks remain tense with unresolved security guarantees and territorial disputes.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky used group chat to answer reporters' questions mid-flight, emphasizing Ukraine's refusal to surrender land amid ongoing negotiations. He met European leaders to discuss security guarantees and territorial concessions, amid uncertainties over US support.
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A UK military serviceman died in Ukraine on Tuesday during a non-combat incident while observing Ukrainian forces testing a new defensive capability. The MoD confirmed the death, which is the first known fatality of a UK service member in Ukraine, highlighting the risks faced by UK personnel assisting Ukrainian defense efforts.
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European leaders warn of rising Russian threats, calling for increased defense spending and readiness. Dutch PM Rutte warns of potential conflict within five years, citing Russia's brazen actions and the need for urgent NATO action amid ongoing Ukraine peace talks.
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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is participating in meetings in Berlin with US and European officials to discuss proposals for ending the Ukraine conflict. The talks include US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, ahead of a summit with European leaders on Monday. Details of the negotiations remain undisclosed.