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Net migration to the UK dropped 69% to 204,000 in the year to June 2025, the lowest since 2021, driven by fewer non-EU arrivals for work and study and increased emigration. Despite this, public concern over immigration remains high, especially regarding illegal Channel crossings and asylum seekers. The government has introduced stricter immigration policies and plans further reforms to reduce migration pressures.
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On November 14, 2025, Blue Origin successfully launched its New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral, carrying NASA's twin Escapade spacecraft bound for Mars. The mission aims to study Mars' upper atmosphere and magnetic fields, with arrival expected in 2027. The rocket's first-stage booster was recovered upright on an offshore barge, marking a key milestone in reusable rocket technology and intensifying competition with SpaceX.
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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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A new Kremlin calendar features images of Vladimir Putin engaging in activities like judo and snowmobiling, emphasizing his strength and sovereignty. It omits direct references to Ukraine, focusing instead on his role as a symbol of stability and masculinity within Russia.
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Recent reports highlight concerns over the UK’s military preparedness amid rising threats from Russia and China. Despite government promises to boost defence spending and build new factories, MPs warn that the UK lacks a comprehensive plan to defend itself and its territories, with funding and strategic gaps remaining unaddressed.
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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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On November 28, 2025, German authorities arrested Ukrainian Serhii Kuznietsov, suspected of coordinating the 2022 Baltic Sea pipeline explosions that disrupted Russian gas supplies to Europe. Kuznietsov denies involvement, claiming he was serving in Ukraine's army. Meanwhile, Poland closed Russia's last consulate in Gdansk after sabotage on its railway infrastructure linked to Russian intelligence and Ukrainian collaborators.
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On Nov 28-29, 2025, Ukrainian naval drones attacked two Russian-sanctioned oil tankers, Kairos and Virat, in Turkey's exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea. Both vessels, part of Russia's 'shadow fleet' used to evade sanctions, were damaged; Kairos caught fire while Virat sustained minor damage. Turkey condemned the attacks and is engaging with parties to prevent escalation. Separately, UK officials reported increased Russian naval activity near British waters, including laser targeting of RAF pilots by the Russian spy ship Yantar.
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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.
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A Taiwanese airline, Apex Aviation, is seeking to operate civilian surveillance flights using modified aircraft equipped with U.S.-made radar to monitor Chinese activity. The government remains cautious but open to public-private collaboration amid rising Chinese incursions. The initiative aims to bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities and regional security.
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Ukraine is developing and deploying new drone interceptors amid ongoing Russian drone attacks. NATO allies are training with US-made systems like Merops to bolster Eastern European defenses. Russia continues testing advanced drone tactics, including armed and operator-controlled models, intensifying the conflict's technological arms race.
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On November 21, 2025, Nathan Gill, former Reform UK Wales leader and ex-MEP, was sentenced to 10.5 years in prison for accepting at least £40,000 in bribes from pro-Kremlin Ukrainian politician Oleg Voloshyn between 2018 and 2019. Gill made scripted pro-Russian statements in the European Parliament and media, compromising legislative integrity and implicating other MEPs. The case raises concerns about Kremlin influence in UK politics and scrutiny of Nigel Farage's party.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo has declared the end of its 16th Ebola outbreak, which affected Bulape with 64 cases and 45 deaths. Rapid response efforts included vaccinations, medical supplies, and innovative treatment modules. No new cases have been reported since late September, marking a significant public health achievement.
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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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U.S. and Chinese leaders held a call discussing Taiwan, Ukraine, and trade, with Xi reaffirming Taiwan as part of China. Japan's military comments on Taiwan drew Chinese condemnation. The story highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent diplomatic exchanges.
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Recent Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities continue despite ongoing diplomatic talks. The U.S., Russia, and Ukraine are engaged in negotiations over a peace plan, with European leaders emphasizing Ukraine's sovereignty. Ukraine faces military and economic pressures, including a new IMF aid package.
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Russian forces continue to push towards Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, employing encirclement tactics amid ongoing Ukrainian resistance. Moscow claims control of parts of the city, while Kyiv reports fighting and counterattacks. The situation remains fluid as peace negotiations and battlefield developments unfold.
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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.
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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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Andriy Yermak, Ukraine's top negotiator and Zelenskyy's key ally, is being investigated following searches at his home linked to a $100m nuclear energy kickback scheme. The move risks disrupting peace negotiations and intensifies political tensions amid ongoing war with Russia.
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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.
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EU leaders are working to unlock up to 210 billion euros in Russian assets held in Belgium to fund Ukraine's defense and reconstruction. A legal proposal aims to address legal and political hurdles, with a key meeting scheduled for December 18. Belgium remains cautious amid concerns over legal liabilities and support from other EU nations.
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A Russian court sentenced eight individuals to life imprisonment for the October 2022 bombing of the Crimean Bridge. The attack, claimed by Ukraine, caused significant damage and casualties, prompting Russia to retaliate with strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. The defendants deny involvement, asserting they were unaware of explosives in their cargo.
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As of early December 2025, Russian athletes have been reinstated to compete under their national flag in judo and allowed neutral participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics, despite ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Ukrainian diver Lyskun's switch to Russian citizenship has sparked controversy and disciplinary threats from Ukraine's federation. The Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned bans on Russian and Belarusian winter athletes, enabling some to qualify for Milan-Cortina Games.
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On November 28, 2025, Andriy Yermak, Ukraine's powerful chief of staff and key peace negotiator, resigned following anti-corruption raids on his home amid a $100 million graft investigation linked to the state nuclear energy sector. His departure comes amid intense US pressure on Kyiv to reach a settlement with Russia, risking disruption to Ukraine's negotiating stance during ongoing conflict.
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As of December 5, 2025, the EU's plan to fund Ukraine's 2026-27 budget using a €90 billion reparations loan backed by frozen Russian assets faces strong opposition from Belgium. Belgium fears legal and financial risks, demanding guarantees from other EU states before supporting the plan. EU leaders aim to resolve the impasse at the December 18 summit amid ongoing Russian threats and stalled peace talks.
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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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U.S. officials, including Senator Rubio, are exploring options to end the Ukraine war, emphasizing that only Putin can decide to cease hostilities. Meanwhile, Russia continues to demand territorial concessions, and Western support for Ukraine remains limited amid political and economic pressures.
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Four South Africans were detained at Johannesburg airport en route to Russia, suspected of recruiting men to fight in Ukraine. The arrests follow reports of 17 others stranded in Ukraine, linked to allegations involving Zuma's daughter. An investigation is underway into illegal foreign military assistance.
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Swiss voters are deciding on a referendum that would expand national service to all citizens, including women and foreigners. Supporters argue it will strengthen social cohesion and crisis resilience, while opponents cite cost and gender equality concerns. Recent polls suggest the initiative is likely to fail today.
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Ukrainian and US officials are engaging in high-level talks in Florida aimed at ending the Ukraine conflict. Ukraine's delegation, led by Rustem Umerov, is working with US representatives including Rubio and Kushner. The talks follow recent military and diplomatic developments, with Ukraine seeking a constructive resolution.
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Kyiv is resisting a US-backed peace plan that aligns with Russia's demands. Talks in Florida and Geneva involve Ukrainian, US, and Russian officials aiming to find a pathway to peace and security guarantees amid ongoing conflict and recent military attacks. Zelenskiy emphasizes Ukraine's commitment to diplomatic efforts today, December 2, 2025.
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U.S. diplomatic efforts to broker peace in Ukraine continue, with negotiations in Florida revealing complexities. Talks involve U.S., Ukraine, and Russia, amid recent military attacks and political upheaval in Kyiv. Key figures include Rubio, Yermak, and Umerov, with plans to meet in Moscow and Paris.
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The world's top 100 arms manufacturers earned a record $679 billion in 2024, driven by increased military spending amid conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Revenues rose mainly in Europe and the US, with Asian companies facing declines due to Chinese procurement issues. Despite delays in US programs, demand remains high worldwide.
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European officials, led by Michael McGrath, emphasize that any ceasefire in Ukraine must include accountability for Russian war crimes. They oppose proposals for amnesty and reintegration, warning that impunity would encourage future aggression. The debate follows US and Ukrainian negotiations on peace plans amid ongoing investigations into Russian atrocities.
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South African police arrested Nonkululeko Mantula, a radio presenter, and four others for allegedly recruiting men to join the Russian army. The arrests follow separate investigations into a daughter of ex-president Zuma, accused of tricking men into fighting as mercenaries in Ukraine. The government is working to repatriate trapped South Africans.
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Russia announced the capture of Pokrovsk, a strategic city in eastern Ukraine, amid ongoing fighting. Ukraine denies full control, and the situation reflects Russia's slow territorial gains in the Donbas. Peace talks are ongoing, with US envoy visits coinciding with the claims.
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Landmine and unexploded ordnance casualties surged in 2024, with children most affected. Funding shortages threaten demining efforts in Afghanistan, Sudan, and Nigeria, risking increased civilian harm. Experts warn that without urgent support, contamination will grow, prolonging humanitarian crises.
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A Ukrainian naval drone attack targeted Russian vessels near Turkey, prompting Turkish condemnation. The incident highlights escalating Black Sea conflicts amid Ukraine-Russia tensions, with Turkey warning all parties. Ukrainian claims responsibility for the attack, which involved maritime drones, while Turkey emphasizes the threat to navigation and regional stability. Today’s date: Tue, 02 Dec 2025.
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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.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin accused European nations of obstructing peace efforts in Ukraine, claiming they lack a peace agenda and are 'on the side of war.' US negotiators are in Moscow discussing a draft plan to end the conflict, amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and military developments.
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Russia and the US have held high-level talks over Ukraine, but no breakthrough has been reached. Russia remains firm on territorial demands, while Ukraine insists on maintaining control. Ongoing fighting and diplomatic efforts continue as both sides explore potential compromises, with key issues including territory and security guarantees.
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U.S. negotiators Kushner and Witkoff met with Putin in Moscow amid ongoing Ukraine conflict. Russia warns Europe of swift defeat if war erupts, while the U.S. presents a revised peace plan. Ukraine insists on full peace, not just a ceasefire. The talks highlight tensions over concessions and territorial demands.
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EU lawmakers and member states agreed to end Russian gas imports by late 2027, aiming to reduce dependency and cut Moscow's revenue. The deal includes phased bans on pipeline and LNG contracts, with exemptions for Hungary and Slovakia. The move signals a decisive shift in Europe's energy policy amid ongoing tensions.
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Germany has officially deployed the Israeli Arrow 3 missile defense system at the Holzdorf Air Base, marking its first operational use outside Israel and the US. The system enhances Germany's long-range missile defense, part of NATO efforts amid rising threats from Russia and Iran. The sale underscores deepening Israel-Germany defense ties.
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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.
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Israel's military actions in Gaza, citing potential war crimes and flawed conduct. He highlighted ongoing violations of a fragile ceasefire, praised US aid efforts, and called for a reassessment of strategies amid rising civilian casualties and destruction.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his goal to control all of Ukraine's Donbas region, citing military force or Ukrainian withdrawal. Talks with US envoys continue, with Russia demanding recognition of its control over occupied territories. Ukraine opposes ceding land without a referendum amid ongoing conflict.
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Russian forces nearly encircle Myrnohrad in Ukraine's Donetsk region, causing extensive destruction and logistical challenges for Ukrainian defenders. Despite claims of Russian control over nearby Pokrovsk, Ukrainian forces continue fighting. Western support remains crucial as the town faces near-total devastation.
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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.