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On November 10, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will make a historic first official visit to Washington. He aims to join the US-led coalition against ISIS, discuss lifting sanctions, and explore Syria's reconstruction. This follows his landmark UN address and a prior meeting with President Trump in May, marking Syria's shift after Assad's ouster.
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U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth visited Hanoi, emphasizing the importance of war legacy cooperation and marking 30 years of diplomatic relations. The visit signals Vietnam's strategic balancing, amid reports of military purchases and North Korea visits, with Vietnam seeking to expand defense ties on its terms.
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Multiple states, including West Virginia and Tennessee, are deploying National Guard troops to Washington D.C. and Memphis amid ongoing legal challenges and political tensions. Courts are examining the legality of these deployments, which are linked to efforts to combat crime and unrest, with significant public and political backlash.
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On November 16, 2025, Ecuadorians voted against allowing foreign military bases, including US bases, with 61% opposing the measure. This referendum defeat is a political setback for President Daniel Noboa, who supports foreign cooperation to combat drug trafficking. Concurrently, Wilmer Chavarria, leader of the Los Lobos cartel, was arrested in Spain after faking his death and coordinating criminal activities from Europe.
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FBI Director Kash Patel has dismissed multiple agents involved in investigations related to the 2020 election, amid accusations of political bias and chaos within the bureau. The firings followed internal disputes and external pressure, with some officials alleging retaliation for investigations that angered the Trump administration. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over FBI independence and politicization.
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On November 10, 2025, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, marking the first Syrian presidential visit since 1946. This follows the lifting of U.N. and U.S. sanctions on al-Sharaa and Interior Minister Anas Khattab, as Syria seeks to join the U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State and rebuild after years of civil war.
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Starting November 7, the FAA is reducing flights at 40 US airports by 10% due to staffing shortages caused by the ongoing government shutdown. Airlines are adjusting schedules, with some offering refunds and advice for affected travelers. Disruptions are expected through the weekend.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo's foreign minister criticizes Rwanda's actions, questioning its commitment to peace in eastern DRC. Despite diplomatic efforts and a peace agreement, ongoing military presence and abuses hinder progress. Recent meetings in Washington reaffirm commitments, but implementation remains slow and fragile.
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President Donald Trump attended an NFL game in Maryland where he was seen in the stands and on broadcast. During the game, Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown performed the 'Trump Dance' after a touchdown, which Trump shared on social media. The event coincided with discussions about naming the Washington Commanders' new stadium after Trump amid ongoing stadium development plans.
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Efforts to advance Gaza ceasefire negotiations are hindered by the fate of around 200 Palestinian fighters trapped in Rafah. Mediation by Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, and the US is ongoing, with discussions focusing on safe passage and security arrangements. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue today.
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The US government shutdown, now the longest on record, has halted pay for 1.25 million federal workers, disrupted flights, and slowed economic growth. While some losses are recoverable, lasting effects include reduced consumer spending and regional economic strain, especially in Washington, D.C. Today's date is Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:05:34 +0000.
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At a Washington summit, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed the 'Make America Healthy Again' movement, praising its questioning of traditional health policies. The event, linked to anti-vaccine groups and attended by political figures, signals increased White House backing for controversial health reforms amid ongoing vaccine skepticism and public distrust.
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On November 10, 2025, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited the White House, the first Syrian leader to do so 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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The US government has ended a 43-day shutdown after Congress passed a funding bill extending government operations until January 30. The measure, supported by President Trump, restores funding for federal workers and key services but does not resolve healthcare subsidy issues, raising concerns about another shutdown in January.
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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a major reform of the U.S. military's weapons procurement system, aiming to accelerate delivery and reduce bureaucracy. The initiative responds to recent military challenges and aims to shift the focus toward rapid results, moving away from traditional, slow processes.
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The US government ended its 43-day shutdown after Congress passed funding through January 30. Federal workers will receive back pay, and agencies are resuming operations. The shutdown caused widespread disruptions, including furloughs, service closures, and economic impacts, especially in the Washington D.C. area.
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Former President Trump is exploring a potential replacement for Fed Chair Jerome Powell, amid discussions of sweeping policy ideas including 50-year mortgages, direct healthcare payments, and dividend payouts from tariffs. These proposals are at early stages and face legislative and legal hurdles as Trump’s influence on economic policy continues to evolve.
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The US government has resumed operations after a 43-day shutdown, affecting federal workers, programs, and air travel. Federal employees will receive back pay by Nov. 19, and some services like food aid and heating assistance are being restored gradually. Disruptions impacted millions nationwide.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with former President Trump, highlighting enduring strategic interests despite past controversies. The meeting signals continued close ties, with MBS positioning himself as a regional peacemaker and reformer, amid ongoing regional conflicts and economic challenges.
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As of early December 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has paused green card, citizenship, and asylum applications from nationals of 19 countries previously designated as high-risk under a 2025 travel ban. This follows a November attack in Washington by an Afghan national granted asylum. USCIS will conduct comprehensive reviews and interviews for immigrants from these countries who entered since January 2021, with no set date to lift the pause.
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On Nov 20-21, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb ruled that President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. violated constitutional limits on presidential authority and the district's self-governance. The ruling pauses troop deployment for 21 days to allow appeal. Similar legal challenges are ongoing in Memphis and other cities over military involvement in domestic law enforcement.
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President Trump hosted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, featuring a lavish welcome and discussions on military, economic, and regional issues. The visit included plans for significant Saudi investments in the US, sale of F-35 jets, and efforts to normalize relations with Israel, amid ongoing concerns over human rights and regional stability.
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On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw took place at Washington's Kennedy Center, attended by US President Donald Trump. The expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 12 groups of four teams. Scotland, having qualified after 28 years, awaits its group opponents. The event included celebrity hosts and performances, with final playoff teams to be decided in March 2026.
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Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced a $1 trillion US investment, but the kingdom's Public Investment Fund faces cash shortages due to costly, delayed projects like Neom and others, raising questions about the country's economic ambitions.
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Ukraine is under intense pressure as the US proposes a 28-point peace plan heavily favoring Russia, including territorial concessions and military limits. Zelensky warns of a tough decision between dignity and key alliances amid battlefield setbacks and domestic crises. European leaders support Ukraine but express concern over the plan's fairness.
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The CDC changed its website to dispute the scientific consensus that vaccines do not cause autism, prompting criticism from health experts. The move aligns with political influences challenging established science, amid ongoing debates about vaccine safety and policy decisions.
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Amid ongoing conflict in Sudan, the RSF announced a unilateral three-month ceasefire following US and regional mediation efforts, but clashes continue. The Sudanese army rejected the proposals, citing bias and security concerns, as international actors push for peace amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
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On December 11, 2025, the M23 rebel group consolidated control over Uvira in eastern DR Congo, displacing 200,000 civilians and threatening the US-brokered Washington Accords signed a week earlier by DR Congo and Rwanda. Despite the peace deal, fighting continues with accusations of Rwandan forces backing M23 and ongoing civilian casualties in South Kivu province.
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On November 26, 2025, two West Virginia National Guard members were shot near the White House in Washington, DC. Both were critically wounded and later confirmed dead. The suspect, also wounded, was taken into custody. The shooting occurred amid ongoing controversy over President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops to combat crime in Democratic-run cities.
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On November 26, 2025, two West Virginia National Guard members were critically wounded in a targeted shooting near the White House. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who arrived in the US via the Biden administration's Operation Allies Welcome in 2021, was taken into custody with non-life-threatening injuries. President Trump ordered 500 additional National Guard troops to Washington, DC.
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On Nov 26, a drone strike hit the Khor Mor gas field in Iraq's Kurdistan region, operated by Dana Gas, causing a major fire and halting gas supplies that power over 80% of the region. The attack led to widespread power outages and a joint Iraqi-Kurdish investigation. The U.S. blamed Iran-backed militias. Operations resumed by Dec 1 after an agreement to restore supplies.
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On November 27, 2025, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan who served in CIA-backed paramilitary units, shot two National Guard members near the White House, killing one and critically wounding the other. Lakanwal entered the US in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome and was granted asylum in 2025. The attack has sparked scrutiny of refugee vetting and immigration policies.
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Following a shooting in Washington, D.C., by Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan asylum seeker with a military background, debates have intensified over vetting processes for refugees. The incident raises questions about U.S. immigration policies, especially amid political calls for stricter reviews of Afghan arrivals post-withdrawal.
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Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old National Guard member, was fatally shot during an attack near the White House on November 26. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a former Afghan Army member, faces murder charges. The incident has prompted discussions on security and vetting procedures amid ongoing political debates.
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Iran reversed its decision to boycott the World Cup draw in Washington after initially refusing to participate due to US visa issues. Iran's coach Amir Ghalenoei will attend as the technical representative, following diplomatic tensions over visa denials linked to political disputes. The event highlights ongoing US-Iran tensions amid broader geopolitical conflicts.
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Two West Virginia National Guard members, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, were shot near the White House during a deployment. Beckstrom died, and Wolfe remains critically injured. A suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is in custody. The incident prompted the U.S. to halt asylum decisions for Afghan passport holders.
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Seven months after their birth, two giraffe calves remain missing from Natural Bridge Zoo. The zoo's owner is serving jail time for refusing to disclose their whereabouts. Animal rights advocates, including actress Kate Silverstone, are calling for answers and a return of the calves.
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Senator Cory Booker, previously a lifelong bachelor, married Alexis Lewis in an interfaith ceremony in Washington D.C. on Saturday. The wedding included a Jewish and Christian blessing, with a legal marriage in Newark last week. The couple met in 2024 and have publicly expressed their happiness about their union.
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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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Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe was critically wounded in a November ambush at a Washington subway station, near the White House. His condition has improved, and he is now transitioning to inpatient rehab. Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who was killed, was buried this week. The attacker, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, faces murder charges.
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Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan refugee, appeared via video from a hospital bed after allegedly ambushing two National Guard members in Washington, killing one and injuring another. The attack has prompted calls for stricter immigration controls amid concerns over radicalization.
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U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell issued a preliminary injunction against the Department of Homeland Security, ruling that federal officers must have probable cause and warrants for civil immigration arrests in Washington, D.C. This follows recent legal challenges to immigration enforcement practices.
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The U.S. Institute of Peace, a longstanding conflict resolution organization, has been renamed the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace amid ongoing legal disputes over control of the building and funding. The change aligns with Trump's efforts to highlight his diplomatic claims and political branding.
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The US government is preparing for the 2026 World Cup across North America amid concerns over immigration policies and security. While efforts are underway to facilitate visas for fans and delegations, restrictions and rhetoric from President Trump raise questions about the event's welcoming spirit and safety measures.
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U.S. officials, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, met with Putin in Moscow to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine. While Putin expressed interest, no agreement was reached, and ongoing fighting continues with Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities. The diplomatic effort aims to find a resolution amid persistent tensions.
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On December 4, 2025, Brian Cole Jr., 30, was arrested in Woodbridge, Virginia, for planting pipe bombs outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters on January 5, 2021. The arrest concludes a nearly five-year investigation involving surveillance footage, cellphone data, and purchase records. The bombs were found on the eve of the Capitol riot, but neither exploded. Cole faces federal explosives charges.
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A 19-year-old man fired a shot inside Oslo's Storo Storsenter, hitting the ceiling. Police arrested him, finding ammunition, a knife, and a baseball bat. No injuries were reported. The incident follows a 2022 shooting in Norway linked to a suspect with extremist ties. The shopping centre has reopened.
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The US government is reviewing Afghan immigration cases following a shooting incident involving an Afghan national. President Trump announced a pause on Afghan asylum applications and a re-examination of recent arrivals, citing national security concerns amid rising hostility towards Afghan immigrants in the US.
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The Oakland Athletics have reached key construction milestones for their new Las Vegas stadium, with cranes in place and foundational work underway. The team’s move is scheduled before the 2028 season, and fan experiences are already opening. Meanwhile, the city hosts the upcoming Copa América draw amid ongoing tourism challenges.
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Iran's soccer delegation faces visa issues amid US travel bans, prompting Iran to send a coach to the World Cup draw to ensure its seat is filled. The US travel ban, announced in June, includes exemptions for athletes, but visa obstacles persist, complicating Iran's participation.