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Carlos Mazón, Valencia's regional president, resigned on November 3, 2025, amid sustained criticism over his administration's delayed response to the deadly October 29, 2024 floods that killed over 230 people. His handling of the crisis, including a late flood alert and absence during the disaster's peak, sparked protests and political fallout. Mazón will remain a regional lawmaker.
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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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García Ortiz, Spain's attorney general since 2022, faces a historic criminal trial for allegedly leaking a confidential email. The case highlights tensions between Spain's left-wing government and Madrid's conservative regional authorities. The trial lasts 10 days and involves high-profile political figures.
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Colombia's government has conducted airstrikes that killed at least 12 minors this year, including children forcibly recruited by armed groups. Human rights advocates call for a suspension of strikes to prevent further casualties, as military operations and political tensions continue amid ongoing conflict with dissident rebel factions.
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Global climate negotiations in Brazil highlight accelerating warming, worsening extreme weather, and insufficient efforts to meet Paris targets. Scientists warn that current progress is too slow to prevent severe impacts, with rising sea levels, wildfires, and droughts affecting vulnerable regions worldwide.
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Thailand's King Vajiralongkorn visits China for his first official trip abroad since 2016, marking a significant shift in regional alliances. The visit emphasizes strengthening strategic cooperation, economic ties, and regional influence, amid ongoing border tensions and shifting US-China dynamics. The trip underscores China's growing regional influence and Thailand's balancing act.
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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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On 25 November 2025, the UK government announced major asylum system reforms inspired by Denmark's strict policies. Refugee status will be temporary, reviewed every 30 months, with a 20-year wait for permanent settlement. Families, including children, may face forced removal if their home countries are deemed safe. The changes aim to curb illegal migration but have sparked widespread criticism from Labour MPs, refugee advocates, and community leaders.
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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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Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Madrid to strengthen alliances and secure military aid, including 300 million euros for defense. He references Picasso’s 'Guernica' to highlight the horrors of war, emphasizing ongoing international support amid domestic and global pressures.
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Today marks half a century since Francisco Franco's death, ending his authoritarian rule. The anniversary prompts reflection on his legacy, with debates over his impact on Spain's democracy and rising support for right-wing parties among younger generations. Recent polls show a significant minority view Franco's dictatorship positively.
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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.
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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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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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An outbreak of African swine fever in wild boar near Barcelona has prompted containment measures and export restrictions. Authorities suspect contaminated food as the source, with no farms affected so far. The outbreak threatens Spain's pork industry and international trade, with EU and global responses underway.
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Several European countries, including Denmark and the UK, are considering or implementing restrictions on social media for under-16s. Australia has already enacted a ban for under-16s, prompting discussions on protecting children from online harms amid concerns over addictive platforms and harmful content.
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In Spain's Extremadura regional election, the conservative Popular Party (PP) secured 29 seats, falling short of a majority and relying on Vox's support. The Socialists suffered their worst result, amid corruption and misconduct allegations. The vote signals a shift in regional politics and upcoming elections in other regions.
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In 2025, UK new car registrations surpassed 2 million for the first time since 2019, driven by a 24% rise in electric vehicle (EV) sales, which now hold a 23.4% market share. Chinese brands, notably BYD and MG, nearly doubled their UK market share to 9.7%, intensifying competition. Meanwhile, Tesla's UK sales declined 8.9%, reflecting broader challenges including political controversies and product delays. The UK government plans to review EV sales mandates in 2026 amid industry calls for clearer policies.
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As of December 30, 2025, Spain has enforced a ban on imports from Israeli settlements in occupied territories, including East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, alongside restrictions on advertising such products. This move follows Spain's broader sanctions on Israel, including an arms embargo, while granting an exception for Airbus. Concurrently, the US sanctioned UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese, barring US companies from financially benefiting her, including from her upcoming book.
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European leaders, including Denmark, France, and the UK, reaffirm Greenland's independence amid US interest. The US suggests Greenland should join its security plans, but European nations emphasize its sovereignty and NATO membership. The dispute follows recent US comments and military activity in Venezuela.
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As of January 7, 2026, US President Donald Trump has revived his ambition to acquire Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory, citing national security concerns amid rising Arctic tensions. The White House confirmed military options remain on the table despite strong opposition from Denmark, NATO allies, and Greenland's leaders, who insist the island is not for sale and only its people can decide its future.
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On Sunday evening near Adamuz, southern Spain, a high-speed train from Malaga to Madrid derailed and collided with an oncoming Madrid-Huelva train, killing at least 39 people and injuring 152. Rescue efforts continue amid uncertainty over the cause. Rail services between Madrid and Andalusia remain suspended as investigations proceed.
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A high-speed train derailment near Adamuz, Spain, has resulted in at least 21 deaths and dozens of injuries. The incident involved a private Iryo train colliding with a Renfe service after the former derailed on a straight track. Investigations are ongoing, and rail services remain suspended.