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On December 10, 2025, UNESCO inscribed Italy's culinary traditions and rituals as intangible cultural heritage, highlighting the social and cultural importance of practices like family meals and cooking rituals. Italy is the first country to receive this recognition for its cuisine, emphasizing sustainability, regional diversity, and the communal nature of food preparation and consumption.
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Countries are making contrasting moves on climate and energy. China advances fusion research, while the UK leads in phasing out fossil fuels. Meanwhile, the US faces opposition to data centers, and Asia's energy security concerns slow renewables. These developments shape the global climate effort today, December 15, 2025.
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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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As of early November 2025, Ukrainian forces continue to defend the eastern city of Pokrovsk against a prolonged Russian offensive. Russia employs pincer movements aiming to encircle the city, but Ukraine denies full encirclement and reports ongoing counterattacks, including special forces operations. Meanwhile, Russia intensifies missile and drone strikes targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, worsening civilian hardships ahead of winter.
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On November 6, 2025, Somali pirates attacked and seized the Malta-flagged tanker Hellas Aphrodite in the Indian Ocean, over 1,000 km off Somalia’s coast. The 24 crew members locked themselves safely in the ship’s citadel. The pirates, armed with machine guns and RPGs, reportedly operate from a hijacked Iranian fishing boat. EU naval forces are responding amid rising piracy linked to regional instability.
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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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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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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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Negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul ended without a deal, amid ongoing border clashes and mutual accusations. Pakistan blames Afghanistan for harboring militants and seeks to curb cross-border violence, while Afghanistan denies sheltering militant groups and criticizes Islamabad’s approach. Tensions remain high as both sides threaten renewed hostilities.
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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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Severe air pollution persists in New Delhi, with AQI reaching 344, prompting protests and government measures. Despite restrictions, pollution remains deadly, especially for vulnerable populations. Residents report health issues and protest for urgent action amid ongoing efforts to reduce emissions.
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On Monday, Nov 10, 2025, a car exploded near New Delhi's historic Red Fort, killing at least 13 and injuring over 20. Authorities have classified it as a terrorist incident under India's anti-terrorism law. Investigations link the blast to a militant cell with alleged ties to Pakistan-based groups. Over 650 detentions and multiple arrests, including Kashmiri doctors, have followed amid heightened security and political tensions.
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On Tuesday, a suicide bomber detonated explosives outside Islamabad's District Judicial Complex, killing at least 12 and injuring over 30. The attack, claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction, marks the first major assault on civilians in Islamabad in over a decade. Pakistani officials accuse Afghan-based militants and India-backed proxies, escalating tensions with Afghanistan amid ongoing border clashes and failed peace talks.
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The UN climate talks in Belém, Brazil, are focusing on climate finance and fossil fuel phase-out. Recent reports confirm renewables will grow faster than any other energy source, making the transition away from fossil fuels inevitable despite political setbacks. The talks highlight the economic and geopolitical implications of this shift.
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As of late November 2025, the US, UK, Canada, and Japan face an early, severe flu season driven by the H3N2 subclade K variant, which has mutated beyond current vaccine strains. Hospital admissions and flu cases, especially among children and vulnerable groups, are rising. Concurrently, norovirus infections are doubling nationwide, with health officials urging hygiene and vaccination to mitigate risks.
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Recent reports highlight rising e-waste and food waste globally, with Australia producing 580,000 tonnes of e-waste annually. Innovations like recycling programs and waste tracking aim to reduce environmental impact. Meanwhile, African nations focus on trade, resilient supply chains, and sustainable farming to improve food security amid global challenges. Sun, 16 Nov 2025 00:02:25 +0000
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As COP30 in Belém nears its conclusion, negotiations stall over a fossil fuel roadmap, with key countries rejecting the proposal. The summit highlights the ongoing global struggle to balance climate action with economic interests, amid disagreements over climate finance and the US absence. The outcome will influence future climate policies.
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Recent data shows a 17% drop in first-time international students entering US colleges this fall, the sharpest decline since COVID-19. Overall enrollment fell slightly, but many universities face revenue shortfalls. Visa processing delays and restrictive policies are key factors, raising concerns about future international education trends.
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Recent elections in Bihar show BJP-led coalition on track to form government amid concerns over electoral integrity. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh's leader Naidu promotes ambitious economic plans, including tech and green energy investments, aiming for rapid growth despite infrastructural challenges.
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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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A large explosion occurred at a police station in Srinagar, Kashmir, during a forensic examination of confiscated explosives, killing at least nine people, mostly police and officials. The blast follows recent terror-related incidents in India, including a deadly car bomb in New Delhi. Authorities classify it as an accidental explosion.
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A car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort has killed 10 and injured 32. Indian authorities arrested Amir Rashid Ali, linked to the attack, which they say was planned with a Kashmiri suspect. The incident follows recent Kashmir raids and a dismantled militant cell.
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On November 17, 2025, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia for crimes against humanity linked to a deadly crackdown on 2024 student protests. Hasina, exiled in India since August 2024, denies the charges and calls the trial politically motivated. The verdict precedes February 2026 elections where her Awami League party is banned amid rising unrest and security concerns.
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A bus carrying 46 Indian pilgrims from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker overnight, resulting in 45 deaths and one survivor with injuries. The incident, one of the deadliest in recent years, has prompted condolences from Indian officials and ongoing rescue efforts.
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A recent report from the UK’s National Energy System Operator warns of a potential gas supply shortfall by 2030-31 if key infrastructure fails, highlighting vulnerabilities in undersea pipelines and the need for mitigation measures amid ongoing energy transition challenges.
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A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Bangladesh on Friday, causing at least six deaths and hundreds of injuries. The quake was felt in Dhaka and neighboring regions, with aftershocks continuing. Authorities activated emergency response efforts amid widespread damage and panic.
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A Tejas fighter jet, developed by India, crashed during a demonstration at Dubai World Central, killing its pilot. The incident occurred on the final day of the Dubai Airshow, marking the second crash involving the aircraft. The crash raises questions about India’s military modernization efforts and export ambitions.
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On December 4, 2025, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains in India after being sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity linked to a 2024 crackdown on student protests. She also received consecutive seven-year prison terms for corruption involving illegal land grabs. Bangladesh has requested her extradition, but India is unlikely to comply amid political tensions ahead of February 2026 elections.
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The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia's Afar region erupted on Sunday, sending ash clouds across Yemen, Oman, India, and Pakistan. No casualties reported, but villages are covered in ash, affecting livestock and travel. The eruption is the first in 12,000 years, with ongoing regional impacts.
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On December 1-3, 2025, Canada became the first non-EU country to join the EU's €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative, granting Canadian defense firms access to EU-backed loans and reducing reliance on U.S. military procurement. Concurrently, Canada struck an energy and trade deal with Alberta to expand oil exports to Asia via a new pipeline, relaxing federal emissions caps in exchange for stronger carbon pricing and carbon capture projects, despite opposition from British Columbia and Indigenous groups. Canada also restarted stalled trade talks with India aiming to double bilateral trade by 2030.
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South Africa secured a rare Test series win in India, defeating the hosts 2-0 with a dominant performance. Meanwhile, the IPL is preparing for its 2026 season, with key players like Maxwell stepping away. The ICC announced a 20-team tournament across India and Sri Lanka starting February 2026, featuring new formats and venues.
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Recent eruptions from unmonitored, dormant volcanoes highlight the risk of overlooked threats. Experts warn these hidden volcanoes, often in remote regions like Ethiopia and Mexico, can cause widespread climate and societal disruptions, yet remain poorly monitored compared to famous volcanoes like Yellowstone.
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An Indian woman, Pem Wang Thongdok, was detained in Shanghai during a layover en route to Japan, after Chinese authorities claimed her Indian passport was invalid due to her birthplace, Arunachal Pradesh, which China considers Chinese territory. She was held for 18 hours before being allowed to leave, escalating tensions amid ongoing border disputes.
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Heavy rains and landslides in Sri Lanka have caused at least 31 deaths, displaced nearly 44,000 people, and led to widespread flooding and road closures. Authorities continue rescue efforts amid worsening weather conditions, with forecasts indicating the storm will move toward India’s south coast.
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In November 2025, Cyclone Ditwah and related monsoon storms caused catastrophic flooding and landslides across Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Over 2,500 deaths have been reported, with millions displaced and widespread infrastructure damage. Scientists link the severity to climate change, with warmer Indian Ocean waters intensifying storms and rainfall.
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President Trump announced an $11 billion aid package for US farmers affected by trade tariffs and global trade shifts. The aid, funded by tariff revenues, aims to support small-scale producers and stabilize agricultural prices amid ongoing trade disputes with China and other countries. The package is part of broader efforts to address rising food costs and economic pressures.
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UK manufacturing PMI rose to 50.2 in November, the first expansion since September 2024, driven by domestic demand and larger firms. Business optimism hit a nine-month high, though employment and smaller firms still face contraction. The data suggests a cautious recovery amid mixed economic signals.
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Cyclone Ditwah caused severe flooding, landslides, and destruction across Sri Lanka, affecting over 1.2 million people, with at least 88 confirmed deaths and hundreds missing. Relief efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage and heavy rains, with more adverse weather expected.
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Flooding and landslides across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia have caused over 1,160 deaths, displacing hundreds of thousands. Heavy monsoon rains, intensified by climate change and tropical cyclones, have led to widespread destruction, with aid efforts hampered by blocked roads and broken infrastructure.
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India's Department of Telecommunications has ordered smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices within 90 days, with no option for users to disable it. The app aims to combat mobile fraud and theft but faces privacy concerns and potential pushback from Apple.
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On December 4-5, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited India for the 23rd Russia-India Summit, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit focused on deepening defense, energy, and economic ties despite US sanctions targeting India's purchases of Russian oil. The leaders agreed on a $100 billion trade target by 2030 and discussed military hardware deliveries, labor mobility, and cooperation amid ongoing Ukraine war tensions.
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Economists and international organizations project a modest slowdown in global growth for 2026, influenced by trade tensions, tariffs, and AI investment. The US economy is expected to grow around 2%, with risks from trade policies and AI market speculation. Forecasts remain cautious amid ongoing uncertainties.
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Houthi rebels announced the release of 10 mariners, including Filipinos and Indians, after claiming Oman took custody of them. The ships targeted in recent attacks, which have sunk vessels and killed mariners, saw a temporary ceasefire during the Gaza conflict. The situation remains tense with ongoing maritime threats.
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A rare flowering of talipot palms in Flamengo Park highlights their long lifecycle, with trees producing millions of flowers after decades. The phenomenon, originating from India and Sri Lanka, draws public interest and raises environmental reflection. The palms in Rio are not invasive and are part of botanical collections since the 1960s.
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The US Department of State has implemented new requirements for H-1B visa applicants, including social media transparency and enhanced background checks. The policy, effective December 15, aims to assess applicants' potential risks related to national security and free speech, causing widespread delays and uncertainty for Indian workers and companies.
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IndiGo canceled over 3,400 flights amid pilot shortages and regulatory delays, causing widespread travel disruptions across India. The airline struggles to adapt to new safety rules introduced in November, leading to baggage issues and passenger frustration. Operations are expected to normalize by mid-December.
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India continues to buy Russian oil despite US sanctions, balancing its strategic partnership with Moscow and its economic ties with Washington. Putin's visit underscores Russia's ongoing energy cooperation with India amid Western sanctions and diplomatic pressures.
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On Dec 6-7, 2025, a fire broke out at the Birch nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, killing 23 people, including kitchen staff and tourists. The blaze, caused by a gas cylinder explosion, was extinguished after delayed firefighting due to narrow access. Authorities have launched an inquiry into fire safety violations and building permits.
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U.S. negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met with Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss peace efforts in Ukraine. The talks follow a series of US proposals and Putin's warnings to Europe. Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasizes the need for a definitive end to the war, amid ongoing diplomatic efforts and Russian military advances.