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Donald Trump has nominated Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, as Secretary of Energy. Wright, a proponent of fossil fuels and fracking, aligns with Trump's energy agenda, emphasizing increased oil and gas production while opposing climate change initiatives. His nomination reflects a shift towards prioritizing fossil fuel development in U.S. energy policy.
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On November 19, Ukraine launched ATACMS missiles into Russia's Bryansk region, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. This follows the U.S. decision to allow such strikes, coinciding with Russia's revised nuclear doctrine, which lowers the threshold for nuclear retaliation against conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers.
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With Republicans gaining control of Congress, they are strategizing to extend tax cuts from 2017 that are set to expire. This effort is part of a broader agenda to implement significant fiscal reforms and advance Trump's legislative priorities in early 2025.
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UK households are facing a 1% increase in energy bills starting January 2025, with the average annual cost expected to reach £1,736. This rise adds to ongoing financial pressures amid high energy prices driven by geopolitical tensions and supply issues.
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On November 19, 2024, the EU and UK imposed sanctions on Iran's national shipping company and its director for allegedly aiding Russia's military efforts. The sanctions include asset freezes and restrictions on transactions, coinciding with the 1,000th day of the Ukraine war.
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The highly anticipated second season of 'Squid Game' will premiere on December 26, 2024. Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk discusses the intense stress of producing the first season, which led to significant personal tolls, and reveals that the new season will delve deeper into themes of morality and justice as protagonist Gi-hun returns to the deadly games.
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Following Donald Trump's re-election, interest in South Korea's 4B movement has surged among American women. This movement advocates for rejecting heterosexual relationships as a response to perceived threats to women's rights, particularly in light of recent abortion rulings and societal misogyny. The movement's principles resonate with many disillusioned voters.
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Donald Trump has nominated Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, a decision that has surprised military leaders and political insiders. Critics question Hegseth's qualifications for overseeing the Department of Defense, given his limited national security experience and controversial views.
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Following Kamala Harris's defeat to Donald Trump in the 2024 election, Nancy Pelosi criticized President Biden for delaying his exit from the race. She suggested that his late endorsement of Harris hindered the Democratic Party's chances and sparked internal debates about leadership and future strategies.
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Iran has initiated measures to halt the increase of its uranium stockpile enriched to 60%, as reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This development follows discussions between Iranian officials and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, amid ongoing tensions regarding Iran's nuclear program and its lack of cooperation with inspectors.
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The UK government is reviewing its sentencing policies amid a prison crisis, with nearly 3,000 offenders released early. Labour's David Gauke leads the review, focusing on alternatives to incarceration and the use of technology in monitoring offenders. The review aims to reshape the justice system by Spring 2025.
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Following Ukraine's cross-border strikes into Russia, U.S. markets experienced a downturn, with major indexes dropping by 1%. Investors are also closely watching Nvidia's upcoming earnings report amid rising geopolitical tensions and concerns over stock market volatility.
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At the G20 summit in Brazil, leaders criticized the weak communique regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, marking 1,000 days of conflict. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized continued support for Ukraine, while Ukraine launched long-range missile strikes into Russian territory for the first time, following U.S. approval.
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President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Pete Hegseth, a Fox News contributor and military veteran, as Secretary of Defense. Hegseth's selection has sparked mixed reactions due to his limited national security experience and controversial views on military policies, including his stance on women in combat roles and criticism of diversity efforts in the military.
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Since Donald Trump's re-election, Elon Musk has emerged as a significant figure in his administration, frequently seen at Mar-a-Lago and involved in key discussions. Musk's role includes advising on government efficiency, raising concerns among some Trump insiders about his growing influence and the implications for federal spending.
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The Biden administration has authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles against targets in Russia, marking a significant policy shift. This decision comes amid escalating military pressures, particularly with North Korean troops supporting Russia. Ukrainian President Zelensky has long advocated for this capability to enhance Ukraine's defense efforts.
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The interactive documentary 'Tetris Forever' offers an in-depth look at the game's 40-year history, featuring interviews with creator Alexey Pajitnov and key figures like Henk Rogers. It highlights Tetris's evolution, cultural impact, and the complexities of its commercial journey from the Soviet Union to a global phenomenon.
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The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have escalated missile and drone attacks on military and civilian vessels in the Red Sea, prompting a robust response from the US Navy. Concerns grow over potential Russian support for the Houthis, which could further destabilize the region and disrupt global shipping routes.
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A recent report highlights the potential of recycling to reduce the need for new mining of rare earth elements, crucial for technology and green energy. While recycling could cut new mining needs by up to 40% by 2050, current efforts are lagging, raising concerns about dependency on China for these critical resources.
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As the Ukraine conflict nears its third anniversary, President-elect Donald Trump’s potential influence raises concerns over U.S. support for Kyiv. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's recent call with Vladimir Putin has sparked criticism from Ukraine, highlighting the precarious situation on the battlefield as Russian forces advance in the east.
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Russia's drone warfare against Ukraine has escalated, utilizing thermobaric warheads and unarmed decoys to confuse defenses. The Alabuga Special Economic Zone is central to this production, with significant implications for military tactics and civilian safety.
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On November 16, 2024, Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya arrived in Kyiv to discuss North Korea's military alliance with Russia and reaffirm Japan's support for Ukraine. The visit follows recent drone attacks on Kyiv and highlights concerns over North Korean troop deployments in Russia.
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Taiwan is reportedly seeking to procure up to $15 billion in advanced weapons from the U.S. under president-elect Donald Trump. The proposed package includes F-35 fighter jets, E-2D Hawkeye aircraft, Aegis-equipped warships, and Patriot missiles, amid rising tensions with China.
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As President-elect Donald Trump finalizes his cabinet, Howard Lutnick and Scott Bessent are leading contenders for Treasury Secretary. Elon Musk has publicly endorsed Lutnick, while Trump is also considering Marc Rowan and Kevin Warsh. The selection process is complicated by Lutnick's recent tensions with Trump and differing views on tariffs.
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On November 17, 2024, Ukraine experienced one of its largest missile attacks from Russia, involving around 120 missiles and 90 drones. The assault targeted energy infrastructure, resulting in at least 10 fatalities and significant damage across the country. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted over 140 aerial threats during the attack.
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Pope Francis has urged for an investigation into potential genocide in Gaza, following Israel's military actions that have reportedly killed over 40,000 Palestinians since October 2023. His comments, made in a forthcoming book, mark a significant escalation in his rhetoric regarding the conflict.
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In a significant policy shift, President Biden has authorized Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles against Russian and North Korean forces in the Kursk region. This decision comes amid escalating tensions as Russia deploys North Korean troops and intensifies its military campaign in Ukraine, just two months before President-elect Trump takes office.
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President Biden has authorized Ukraine to use Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMs) for strikes deeper into Russia. This decision comes amid increased military support from North Korea to Russia and heightened missile attacks on Ukraine. The move raises concerns about escalating tensions as Donald Trump prepares to take office.
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, marking the first meeting between a British leader and Xi since 2018. Starmer aimed to mend UK-China relations while addressing human rights concerns, including the case of detained activist Jimmy Lai.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to enhance his country's nuclear capabilities in response to perceived threats from the U.S. and its allies. He condemned recent military cooperation among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, labeling it as an escalation of tensions in the region. Kim's remarks come amid ongoing military support for Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.
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Donald Trump has nominated Brendan Carr, a current FCC commissioner, as the new chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. Carr, a proponent of deregulation and critic of Big Tech, aims to enforce stricter regulations on media and technology companies while promoting free speech.
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The U.S. has authorized Ukraine to use Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to strike deeper into Russian territory, particularly in the Kursk region. This decision marks a significant shift in U.S. policy amid ongoing military tensions and North Korean support for Russia. The implications for the conflict are profound.
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In response to escalating security threats, Sweden, Finland, and Norway have updated their crisis preparedness guides. These changes reflect concerns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and other geopolitical tensions, urging citizens to stockpile supplies and prepare for potential military conflict.
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Two undersea internet cables connecting Finland to Germany and Lithuania to Sweden were severed, raising suspicions of sabotage. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that the incidents are likely hybrid actions linked to Russia's ongoing threats in the region. Investigations are underway to determine the cause.
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At his final G20 summit in Brazil, President Biden missed the official group photo due to logistical issues, highlighting a shift in focus among world leaders towards President-elect Trump. This incident underscores Biden's waning influence as he prepares to leave office.
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UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer announced the resumption of trade talks with India after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit. The discussions aim to enhance economic ties, focusing on trade, security, and technology, with hopes of finalizing a deal in early 2025.
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Donald J. Trump has promised a more aggressive approach, after the Biden administration worked to avoid open conflict with Beijing.
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On November 19, 2024, Ukraine reportedly used American-made ATACMS missiles to strike a military facility in Russia's Bryansk region. This marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, allowing Ukraine to target inside Russia as tensions escalate amid ongoing conflict.
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In a significant shift, President Biden has authorized Ukraine to use American ATACMS missiles against Russian targets, following a similar decision by the UK to allow Storm Shadow missile strikes. This change comes amid escalating tensions and military actions involving North Korean troops in the conflict.