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As of December 8, 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. Separately, Airbus identified a quality issue with metal panels on some A320s, leading to delivery delays and inspections but no immediate safety risk.
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Recent UN reports highlight persistent and worsening violence against women worldwide, with femicide and digital abuse increasing. Despite awareness efforts, funding remains critically underallocated, and violence remains deeply rooted in social and digital spheres, affecting millions across regions.
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South Africa's G20 presidency led to a largely successful summit, with 19 countries signing a declaration on issues like climate, debt relief, and inequality, despite US opposition and President Trump's absence. The summit highlighted African leadership and multilateral cooperation amid global tensions.
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South Africa reports 41 deaths during traditional male initiation rites this summer, mainly in Eastern Cape. Authorities blame negligence and illegal schools, arresting 41 people. The government emphasizes safety standards, but illegal schools persist, risking lives during culturally significant rites of passage.
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On December 5, 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington DC. The prize recognizes Trump's efforts in brokering peace deals, including a Gaza ceasefire, despite criticism over his administration's military actions and human rights record. The event highlighted Infantino's close ties with Trump amid global controversy.
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Leaders gather in South Africa for the G20 summit, where 19 countries signed a declaration on global issues, including renewable energy and debt relief. The US boycotted, citing disagreements. South Africa's presidency led to a consensus, amid global conflicts and economic challenges.
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BHP has ended its attempt to acquire Anglo American after being rebuffed, focusing on its own growth. Meanwhile, Anglo prepares to merge with Teck Resources in a deal valued at $53 billion, with shareholder votes scheduled for December 9. The move signals a shift in the mining sector's consolidation efforts.
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Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, a South African opposition MP, resigned after police announced an investigation into her alleged role in recruiting South Africans to fight in Ukraine for Russian mercenaries. The move follows accusations from her half-sister and ongoing efforts to repatriate the men trapped in Ukraine. The investigation is ongoing as of December 2, 2025.
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South Africa reports a third consecutive quarter of GDP growth, driven by sectors like mining, trade, and agriculture. Despite structural challenges, the economy shows signs of recovery, with employment rising and key industries expanding, supported by ongoing reforms and energy improvements.
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Since December 10, 2025, former President Trump has intensified racist comments targeting Somali immigrants and their representatives, including Ilhan Omar, amid ongoing immigration policies and political tensions. His remarks have sparked widespread condemnation and concern over rising xenophobia in the US and globally.
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Russian forces announced the capture of Pokrovsk, a strategic city in eastern Ukraine, amid ongoing fighting. Ukraine denies full control, and the situation highlights Russia's slow territorial gains in the Donbas. US peace talks are ongoing, with recent claims timed to influence negotiations.
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In early December 2025, President Donald Trump launched a harsh verbal attack on Somali immigrants in Minnesota, calling them "garbage" and claiming they contribute nothing to the US. He also criticized Somali-born Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. These remarks coincided with federal plans for immigration enforcement operations targeting Somali residents, sparking local political backlash and highlighting ongoing tensions over immigration policy.
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Former South African president Jacob Zuma, accused of corruption linked to a 1999 arms deal, faces a trial after nearly two decades of delays. The case involves 18 charges, including fraud and money laundering, with Zuma denying all allegations and claiming political motives. The court is now considering efforts to prevent further delays.
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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.
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The US government has proposed requiring travelers from 42 countries to submit five years of social media data, email addresses, phone numbers, and family details before entry. The move, linked to upcoming events like the 2026 World Cup, faces criticism over privacy and potential impact on international visitors.
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A mass shooting at a bar inside a hostel in Saulsville, Pretoria, has resulted in 12 deaths, including three children, and 13 injuries. Police are searching for three suspects. The incident highlights ongoing violence linked to illegal liquor venues amid South Africa's high homicide rate.
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On December 7, mutinous soldiers in Benin briefly seized state TV, declared a coup removing President Patrice Talon, and suspended the constitution. Loyalist forces, supported by Nigerian airstrikes and ECOWAS troops, swiftly regained control. Fourteen arrests were made; the coup leader remains at large. The incident highlights regional instability amid rising military takeovers in West Africa.
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On December 21, 2025, Nigerian authorities announced the release of the remaining 130 abducted students and staff from St. Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, completing the liberation of all 230 captives taken in a November 21 attack. The children, many malnourished or traumatized, are being reunited with families ahead of Christmas amid ongoing concerns over widespread kidnappings for ransom in Nigeria's volatile regions.
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The US has disinvited South Africa from the 2026 G20 summit amid diplomatic tensions. The move follows US accusations of South Africa's policies and its legal action against Israel. South Africa affirms its right to participate and criticizes US claims, highlighting ongoing geopolitical disputes.
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Nigeria intervened militarily in Benin after a coup attempt led by soldiers. President Tinubu ordered fighter jets and ground forces to support Benin's government, which quickly regained control. The intervention was coordinated with regional bodies and followed requests from Benin's authorities. The coup was foiled within hours, amid regional insecurity concerns.
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The U.S. Congress is considering legislation to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) until 2028, with provisions to liquidate tariffs incurred after September 2025. The bill aims to support U.S.-Africa trade, especially for textile-dependent economies, amid ongoing negotiations and political tensions.
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India's demand for weight loss injections like Mounjaro and Ozempic has surged amid rising obesity and diabetes. Experts warn of unregulated use, potential health risks, and the need for stricter oversight as market value is projected to reach $150bn by 2030.
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Recent reports reveal stark global inequality, with the ultra-rich controlling three times the wealth of the poorest half. Women earn significantly less and work longer hours worldwide, highlighting persistent gender disparities amid growing economic concentration at the top.
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Mohamed Salah faces club challenges at Liverpool amid speculation of a move to Saudi Arabia, while remaining a beloved figure in his Egyptian hometown of Nagrig, where his legacy inspires local youth and community projects. The story highlights his ongoing influence and recent tensions at Liverpool.
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A gas explosion in a well-maintained four-storey building in Trévoux, France, caused a collapse that injured at least 13 people and killed two children. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with investigations suggesting the explosion was likely accidental. Over 70 residents have been displaced.
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Recent fossil and DNA studies reveal significant insights into prehistoric marine life and early shark evolution. A giant predator from 115 million years ago was identified in Australia, predating previous finds by 15 million years. Additionally, fossils from the Dominican Republic suggest prehistoric bees built nests in caves, and a new species of hominin, Little Foot, may be distinct from known relatives.
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Farmers in France have protested against government-mandated culling of cattle due to lumpy skin disease, blocking roads and demanding policy review. Meanwhile, South Africa faces foot-and-mouth outbreaks, with containment measures affecting local farmers. Both stories highlight tensions between disease control and farmers' livelihoods.
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Russia's Central Bank kept its key rate unchanged at 7.5%, citing persistent inflation and cautious outlook. South Africa and Namibia also maintained rates despite easing inflation, reflecting regional focus on stability and cautious policy adjustments. All three economies face external risks and slow growth.
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Recent diplomatic tensions between the US and South Africa have escalated following South Africa's arrest of Kenyan nationals working illegally at US refugee centers. The US condemns the actions and alleges harassment, amid broader disputes over South Africa's policies and US refugee priorities. The situation highlights ongoing diplomatic strains.
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The US pledges $2 billion for UN humanitarian efforts in 2026, a significant reduction from previous years, amid reforms aimed at consolidating aid functions and reducing bureaucracy. The move impacts global aid programs, with many countries facing funding shortfalls and increased humanitarian needs.
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On December 21, 2025, around 1 a.m., gunmen in a white minibus and silver sedan opened fire at KwaNoxolo tavern in Bekkersdal township near Johannesburg, killing nine and injuring ten. The attackers shot patrons inside and on the streets, then fled. Police launched a manhunt; motives remain unclear amid South Africa's high murder rates and recent mass shootings.
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A mass shooting at a township pub in Bekkersdal, near Johannesburg, has killed 10 people and wounded others. Police arrested 10 suspects, including migrants from Lesotho and Mozambique, with illegal firearms. The incident follows recent violence linked to illegal mining and firearms proliferation amid South Africa's high homicide rate.
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The ICJ in The Hague announced Belgium's intervention in South Africa's case against Israel over Gaza. The case alleges violations of the 1948 UN Genocide Convention, with Israel denying the charges. Several countries have joined the proceedings, which could influence international law and policy on Gaza.
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Algeria's parliament approved a law declaring France's colonization a crime, demanding an apology and reparations. The law covers colonial atrocities from 1830 to 1962, including nuclear tests and torture, amid ongoing diplomatic tensions with France. The move is symbolic but politically significant today.
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Recent studies reveal critical declines in freshwater mussels across Europe and North America, linked to heatwaves and pollution, while desert mammals like African striped mice show physiological stress from rising temperatures. These findings highlight the widespread impact of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystems.
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The US has announced new visa restrictions affecting 38 countries, mainly in Africa, requiring applicants to post bonds of up to $15,000. The policy aims to reduce overstays but raises concerns over affordability and fairness, especially for Nigerian travelers. It takes effect on January 21, 2026.
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A helicopter struck a marked slackline near Telegraph Canyon, Arizona, on January 2, killing pilot David McCarty and three family members. Investigators are examining the cause, including the role of the slackline, which was marked with aviation notices. The crash highlights ongoing safety concerns with unmarked cables in flight paths.
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Naval exercises led by China off South Africa's coast involve ships from BRICS nations, including Iran, Russia, and China, aiming to enhance maritime cooperation amid strained US relations. The drills, postponed last year, signal a strategic push by BRICS to project influence and challenge Western dominance.
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The third season of Love Island: All Stars, hosted by Maya Jama, was scheduled to premiere on January 12 but was postponed due to wildfires in South Africa. The show features past contestants returning for a six-week series with a £50,000 prize, with new episodes now expected to start soon.
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Morocco, hosting the Africa Cup of Nations, faces Senegal in the final on Sunday. Led by coach Walid Regragui and star player Brahim Diaz, Morocco aims to end a 50-year trophy drought. The tournament has seen high expectations and intense competition, with Morocco's recent unbeaten streak and home advantage key factors.
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On January 12, 2026, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) began a three-week trial in The Hague on a genocide case filed by Gambia in 2019 against Myanmar. The case accuses Myanmar's military of committing genocide against the Rohingya minority during a 2017 military campaign. Myanmar denies the charges and is cooperating with the court. The trial could set legal precedents affecting other genocide cases worldwide.
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South Africa faces a severe foot and mouth disease outbreak across seven provinces, with government delays and vaccine shortages hampering containment efforts. France cancels cattle at a major show due to lumpy skin disease, while Israel reports its first bird flu case in a year, highlighting ongoing animal health threats worldwide.
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Recent surveys from ECFR and Oxford reveal declining US influence and rising perceptions of China as a global power. The polls show Europeans and others view China as a necessary partner, while trust in the US as an ally diminishes, driven by Trump's policies and shifting geopolitical dynamics. The world is moving toward a multipolar order.
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Heavy rains across South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe have caused severe flooding, resulting in at least 192 deaths, widespread infrastructure damage, and displacing thousands. South Africa's Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, along with Mozambique, face ongoing risks as authorities respond to the disaster.
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South Africa hosted the weeklong 'Will for Peace 2026' naval exercises off Cape Town, led by China with participation from Iran, Russia, and the UAE. The US criticized the drills, condemning Iran's involvement amid tensions over Iran's regional activities and human rights issues. South Africa maintains the exercises align with its non-aligned policy.