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G7 foreign ministers, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, met in Niagara-on-the-Lake to discuss increasing sanctions on Russia and supporting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure as winter approaches. The meeting also addressed broader geopolitical tensions and military aid.
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Russian authorities claim to have thwarted a plot by Ukraine and Britain to hijack a Russian MiG-31 with a Kinzhal missile, aiming to provoke NATO by flying the jet toward a Romanian base. The operation involved offers of $3 million to a Russian pilot and was reportedly directed by Ukrainian and British intelligence. The story highlights ongoing tensions and information warfare.
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On November 7, 2025, North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast, following new U.S. sanctions targeting North Korean cybercrime-linked entities. The missile launch coincided with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's visit to South Korea and joint military drills. Pyongyang warned of more offensive actions against perceived threats, while Washington assessed no immediate danger to U.S. or allied territories.
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As of early November 2025, Lithuania has indefinitely closed its Šalčininkai border crossing with Belarus and restricted passage at Medininkai following repeated incursions of helium balloons carrying contraband cigarettes into its airspace. These incidents disrupted flights at Vilnius and Kaunas airports multiple times last week, prompting national security measures and discussions of NATO consultations.
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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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Indian and Chinese refiners are suspending or reducing Russian crude purchases amid US sanctions and fears of secondary sanctions. This shift impacts Russian exports, with buyers seeking alternative sources. The US deadline to wind down dealings with sanctioned Russian companies is November 21, 2025.
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Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan stated she sees no need for a rate cut this week, aligning with her stance that the economy remains strong and inflation high. Meanwhile, Kansas City Fed's Jeff Schmid dissented, citing a balanced labor market and ongoing economic momentum. The Fed's next move remains uncertain amid these differing views.
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Tens of thousands gathered in Novi Sad to mark one year since a railway station canopy collapse that killed 16 people. The event has intensified anti-government protests demanding accountability and early elections. Authorities remain tense amid ongoing demonstrations and police crackdowns.
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Russia's parliament has approved legislation turning conscription into a permanent, year-round process. The bill allows draft boards to conduct medical exams and enlistment steps at any time, with conscripts still serving mainly during spring and autumn. The reform aims to streamline recruitment and reduce bottlenecks.
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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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As of November 2025, Iran's nuclear program remains under intense international scrutiny following a 12-day war with Israel in June, during which the US joined strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The IAEA has conducted inspections but lacks access to key facilities like Fordow and Natanz. Iran vows to rebuild its nuclear infrastructure stronger, rejects direct US talks, and insists its program is peaceful despite Western concerns and renewed sanctions.
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President Trump held meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping during the APEC summit in South Korea. He reported progress on halving a fentanyl duty and discussed cooperation on ending the Ukraine war, though oil was not a primary topic. The meetings reflect ongoing US-China diplomacy amid tensions over Russia and Ukraine.
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President Trump announced the US will restart nuclear testing, citing other countries' programs. The move follows recent Russian and Chinese nuclear developments and raises concerns about a potential arms race. The US has not conducted nuclear tests since 1992, and the decision has sparked bipartisan opposition.
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Ukraine reports over 450 drone and missile strikes targeting energy infrastructure, killing civilians and causing widespread power outages. Russia continues its military offensive, including house-by-house fighting in key towns, while Ukraine strengthens its air defenses amid ongoing conflict.
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Russia has announced successful tests of advanced nuclear-powered weapons, including the Burevestnik cruise missile and Poseidon super torpedo. These weapons are designed for strategic deterrence, with claims of unmatched speed and invulnerability, raising concerns about escalation and arms race dynamics.
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Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is visiting Washington to discuss energy reliance on Russian oil amid US sanctions on Russian energy firms. He aims to secure exemptions, citing lack of alternatives, despite criticism from EU and US lawmakers. The meeting tests Hungary's diplomatic ties and energy strategy.
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The US will not send high-level officials to the upcoming UN climate talks in Belém, Brazil, reflecting ongoing opposition to multilateral climate efforts under President Trump. Other world leaders, including China, are also skipping the event. Despite this, US subnational actors continue climate actions independently, highlighting a divided global approach to climate policy.
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OPEC+ has agreed to increase December oil output by 137,000 barrels per day, pausing planned hikes for early 2026 due to sanctions on Russia and market concerns. The move aims to balance supply and prices amid geopolitical tensions and market uncertainty.
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Uganda's rights advocates call for the passage of the Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill amid concerns over increased harassment and digital attacks. UNODC emphasizes strengthening justice systems, while debates in the UK focus on withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights, with political and civil society voices weighing in.
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President Trump ordered the Pentagon to restart nuclear testing, claiming it would be system tests and not nuclear explosions. Experts warn this could trigger a new arms race, but officials emphasize tests will be non-critical. The move raises concerns about global stability and treaty commitments.
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During a summit in Gyeongju, Chinese President Xi Jinping and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung exchanged jokes about the security of Xiaomi smartphones gifted to Lee. Xi's comment about checking for backdoors drew laughter, highlighting a moment of levity amid diplomatic talks. The phones may be used by Lee in future communications.
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Ukraine is engaged in ongoing negotiations with the U.S. over the potential sale of long-range Tomahawk missiles, which could significantly enhance Kyiv's ability to strike deep inside Russia. The Pentagon has assessed that stockpiles are sufficient, but President Trump remains cautious, citing escalation risks amid ongoing conflict and political debates.
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The US has announced it will resume non-nuclear system tests of its nuclear weapons, citing concerns over China's nuclear buildup. The tests involve components, not detonations, and aim to ensure weapon reliability. Critics question the justification and potential escalation of nuclear tensions.
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Estonia's foreign minister visited Beijing, emphasizing China's leverage over Russia and urging Beijing to pressure Moscow to end the Ukraine conflict. Meanwhile, China and Russia reaffirmed their strategic partnership, with China pledging increased investment and economic cooperation despite Western sanctions and declining bilateral trade.
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The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, convened amid record global heat and geopolitical tensions, with nearly 50 heads of state attending but major polluters like the US, China, India, and Russia largely absent or sending deputies. The summit focuses on implementing existing climate pledges, addressing deforestation, methane emissions, and urban heat, while business and local leaders push for stronger climate action despite US federal withdrawal.
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Russian forces continue to press their advance on Pokrovsk, a key Ukrainian city in Donetsk, with Russian claims of encirclement and Ukrainian officials denying it. The city remains contested, with ongoing heavy fighting and strategic importance for both sides. The situation is tense as Ukraine defends its last major stronghold in the region.
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Russian authorities have detained eight individuals accused of sabotage against telecom infrastructure in Salavat, as part of a broader crackdown on online dissent and perceived extremism. Meanwhile, opposition figures face criminal charges for social media activity, amid fears of a repressive climate reminiscent of Soviet-era tactics.
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Lithuania closed two border crossings with Belarus on October 29 after Belarusian weather balloons caused air traffic disruptions. Belarus warns of confiscating stranded Lithuanian trucks, escalating tensions amid broader regional instability linked to Belarus and Russia. The situation reflects ongoing regional security concerns.
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Russia's Lavrov and Putin have signaled readiness to resume nuclear tests if the US or other powers do so first, amid escalating rhetoric. The US denies plans for nuclear explosions, focusing on component testing. Both nations have not conducted nuclear tests since the early 1990s, but recent statements heighten fears of a new arms race.
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Russia announced successful tests of two nuclear-capable weapons, including a nuclear-powered underwater drone and a missile designed to penetrate U.S. defenses. The tests come amid ongoing tensions with the U.S. and efforts by Moscow to leverage its nuclear arsenal in negotiations.
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Sweden is negotiating a long-term air defense cooperation with Ukraine, including potential fighter jet exports, amid ongoing conflict. NATO is deploying advanced drone detection systems in Eastern Europe to deter Russian incursions. Meanwhile, Romania has transferred F-16 jets to bolster regional training and security efforts.
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European countries are rapidly deploying advanced counter-drone technology from Danish firms to address recent incursions into NATO airspace. The surge follows increased drone activity linked to Russia, prompting NATO to develop a 'drone wall' and deploy new systems to protect critical infrastructure and borders.
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Despite Germany's reunification, East Germans maintain a nuanced, often sympathetic view of Russia, influenced by historical ties and unmet economic expectations. This attitude complicates Germany's stance on Ukraine and Russia, with regional divides affecting political support and policy.
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The ICC's Pre-Trial Chamber confirmed charges against Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord's Resistance Army, for atrocities committed in Uganda between 2002 and 2005. Kony remains at large, but the ruling advances efforts for his arrest and trial, marking a historic in absentia decision.
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President Trump hosted leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan at the White House, aiming to strengthen ties and secure critical minerals. The region remains under pressure from Russia and China, with the US seeking strategic footholds amid regional competition.
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Bulgaria has secured a license allowing Lukoil Bulgaria to continue operations amid US sanctions. The license, expected to be extended by the US, permits transactions with the Bulgarian refinery and gas stations until at least February 14, 2026. The government is also moving to take control of the refinery to prevent shutdowns.
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As of November 9, 2025, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov faces speculation about his standing after the U.S. canceled a planned summit with Russia following a tense call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lavrov was absent from key Kremlin meetings and replaced at the upcoming G20 summit, though Kremlin officials deny he has been sidelined. Meanwhile, Russia is reportedly enhancing Venezuela's air defenses amid rising U.S. tensions in the Caribbean.
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Drax power plant continues to burn 250-year-old Canadian trees despite claims of sustainability. A new report links recent wood sourcing to old-growth forests, raising questions about its environmental impact. The UK government extended subsidies, supporting Drax amid ongoing controversy over its environmental practices.
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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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Russia continues its military efforts to control Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, accusing Kyiv of refusing peace talks. Moscow claims it remains open to diplomacy but will persist in fighting to ensure security, while Kyiv rejects Moscow's terms as surrender. The situation remains tense as negotiations stall.
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As of November 15, 2025, Ukraine faces a major corruption scandal involving a $100 million kickback scheme centered on Energoatom, the state nuclear power company. The investigation, spanning 15 months and 1,000 hours of wiretaps, implicates Tymur Mindich, a close associate of President Zelenskyy, as the mastermind. Justice and Energy Ministers resigned amid the fallout, and multiple officials have been detained or dismissed.
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On November 10, 2025, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited the White House, marking the first-ever visit by a Syrian leader since independence. The meeting with President Donald Trump focused on lifting sanctions, Syria’s integration into a US-led coalition against ISIS, and a potential security pact involving Israel. The US suspended Caesar Act sanctions for six months, signaling a shift in regional alliances and Syria’s international rehabilitation.
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G7 foreign ministers, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, met in Niagara to discuss Ukraine's winter needs, Middle East peace, and global security. The gathering also addressed trade tensions and NATO defense spending amid geopolitical volatility.
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Multiple stories highlight ongoing legal and policy changes: Louisiana considers ending federal monitoring of schools over special education issues; Michigan updates sex education standards amid public debate; Kazakhstan advances a bill banning LGBTQ+ content; Malawi denies progress on LGBTQ+ rights; Somalia passes financial and social legislation. These developments reflect shifting attitudes and legal frameworks affecting education, human rights, and social policy worldwide.
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A Turkish military C-130 aircraft crashed in Georgia while en route from Azerbaijan, killing all 10 onboard. The aircraft, which had been in service since 2012, is under investigation after footage showed it breaking apart midair. All Turkish C-130 flights are now suspended pending inspection.
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Ukraine launched a series of strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure, including a refinery in Ryazan, as Russian missile and drone attacks continue on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The attacks aim to weaken Russia’s ability to sustain its war effort ahead of winter, with Ukraine responding with long-range strikes on Russian territory.
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Finnish officials are divided over engaging directly with Russia's Putin amid ongoing tensions. Niinistö suggests Europe should hold talks itself, while others emphasize the need for EU coordination and caution due to the Ukraine war. The Kremlin remains open to respectful ties with Finland.
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The UN Security Council passed a resolution supporting President Trump's Gaza peace plan, including a transitional administration and disarmament of Hamas. Russia and China abstained. Israel opposes Palestinian statehood, while US and allies push for reconstruction and stability in Gaza. Tensions remain high as diplomatic efforts continue.
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Roman Abramovich has filed a claim of conspiracy against Jersey's government amid a criminal investigation into his wealth. The case involves the deletion of data and a freeze on assets linked to him, with legal battles ongoing since 2022. The story highlights offshore finance and legal transparency issues.