Russia's Defense Ministry announces the capture of Selydove, a town in eastern Ukraine. This comes as part of a wider push to seize the nearby logistics hub of Pokrovsk. The capture marks the latest battlefield gain for Russia, which has gradually taken large swaths of territory in the Donetsk region.
Breaking news: North Korean troops reportedly deployed in Russia, sparking concerns over potential impact on Ukraine war. The US says it won't impose new limits on Ukraine's weapons use if North Korea joins the conflict. NATO chief calls move a "significant escalation." Experts weigh in on implications for global security.
In Georgia, a diverse population is driving change in US elections. Black voters are particularly motivated by issues like home healthcare and education. Meanwhile, Muslim voters, including many Black Americans, are also organizing to make their voices heard. These groups recognize the power of their collective votes in shaping the country's future.
The Vatican's child protection commission has released its first annual report, calling for compensation and action against priests accused of sexual abuse. The report highlights the need for a clear policy on compensation, acknowledging "mistakes" and providing public apologies. It also recommends greater access to documents, clearer roles between Vatican departments, and more effective punishment of offenders.
The United Nations has reported that Sudan's ongoing civil war has led to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with over 14 million people forced from their homes and rampant sexual violence. The conflict has created the world's largest displacement crisis this year, with hunger, disease, and sexual violence prevalent. The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan has documented large-scale human rights violations, including sexual slavery, and warned of the potential for regional instability.
Steve Bannon, former advisor to Donald Trump, has been released from prison after serving four months for contempt of Congress. Bannon was convicted in 2022 for refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena related to the January 6 Capitol riot investigation. He is expected to resume hosting his podcast and hold a press conference. Prior to his release, Bannon had claimed he would continue to support Trump and his campaign from behind bars.
A devastating airstrike in northern Gaza has reportedly claimed at least 93 lives, with many more missing. The Hamas-run health ministry has confirmed the toll, while rescuers described a five-storey residential building as the target. Israel's military has yet to comment on the strike, which comes amid ongoing tensions in the region. As concerns mount over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the UN human rights chief has expressed alarm at the situation, stating that entire populations are being subjected to "bombing, siege, and risk of starvation." Meanwhile, Israel has accused Hamas of embedding among civilians, with some 40 alleged "terrorists" reportedly killed in Jabalia.
At least 40 soldiers were killed in an attack on a military base in Chad's Lake region over the weekend, according to the country's presidency. President Mahamat Idriss Deby has launched an operation to track down the assailants. The Lake Chad region has been repeatedly attacked by insurgencies including Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa.
A massive Australian ferry, Spirit of Tasmania IV, is being mothballed in Edinburgh due to infrastructure issues and delays. The 212m-long ship was built in Finland but cannot be accommodated at its intended berth in Devonport until late 2026 or 2027. The project has faced significant cost increases and construction delays, earning it the nickname "fiasco." The situation has parallels with Scotland's own ferry issues, where new ships are being built too large for existing infrastructure.
Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain, has remained snowless later than ever recorded. Typically, the peak gets a light dusting by early October, but unusually warm weather has kept it bare. The previous record was set in 1955 and 2016, when snowfall occurred on October 26th.
Moscow Court Sentences IT Specialist to 13+ Years for Alleged State Secrets Leak
A Moscow court has sentenced Firuz Dadoboyev, an IT specialist, to over 13 years in prison and a fine of $3,000 for attempting to share state secrets with the CIA. According to Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), Dadoboyev illegally acquired sensitive information and planned to pass it to a US intelligence officer.
US Election Controversy: Remarks at Trump Rally Raise Concerns about Racial Tensions
A recent controversy surrounding a stand-up comedian's remarks at a Donald Trump campaign event has sparked concerns about racial tensions in the US. The comedian, Tony Hinchcliffe, made comments about Puerto Rico being an "island of garbage" and likened Latino presence to an "invasion." While the Trump campaign distanced itself from the remarks, many are worried about the potential impact on voters, particularly those in battleground states.
Israel's airstrikes on Tyre, a city in southern Lebanon, have caused widespread destruction and human suffering. The conflict has been ongoing for months, with over 2,700 people killed in Lebanon alone. Tyre, an ancient city with a rich history, has seen its fair share of devastation. Despite the challenges, the city remains resilient and determined to rebuild.
UK Foreign Minister David Lammy has sparked outrage by stating that calling Israel's operation in Gaza a genocide "undermines the seriousness" of the term. Lammy claimed that using the term in reference to Israel's actions undermines the gravity of past genocides, such as those seen during World War II and the Rwandan genocide. Critics argue that Lammy is ignoring the intent behind Israel's actions and the harm caused to civilians.
US President Joe Biden hosted a grand Diwali celebration at the White House, attended by over 600 Indian Americans, including Congress members and industry leaders. In his address, Biden highlighted the importance of diversity in American democracy and acknowledged the role of South Asian Americans in his administration. The event featured a recorded video message from NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams, who is currently on the International Space Station.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-hosts-grand-diwali-celebrations-at-white-house-771720
Israel's airstrikes in Beirut have left a family's home in ruins. The Merhis' apartment was destroyed, and they are now seeking safety with relatives after the attack on October 10. At least 22 people were killed and 117 injured in the strikes that targeted Wafiq Safa, head of Hezbollah's Coordination and Liaison Unit. The family had been living in Beirut for 18 months before their home was destroyed. They are among thousands displaced by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
Iran plans to increase its military budget by 200%, according to government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani. This move comes amid rising tensions with Israel, following recent missile strikes and drone attacks on both sides. The planned defence budget increase is part of a proposal submitted to parliament for approval.
Georgia's Central Election Commission has announced a partial recount of ballots in 14% of polling stations after claims of election fraud sparked widespread protests. The move comes amid allegations of vote buying, voter intimidation, and ballot stuffing, which have been denied by the government. The EU, NATO, and US have demanded a full investigation into these reports.
The upcoming US election is gaining attention worldwide, with concerns about its impact on climate change and global leadership. Mary Robinson, chair of the Elders, emphasizes the importance of addressing the climate crisis, citing every fraction of a degree matters in preventing devastating effects like Hurricane Milton. Trump's potential departure from the Paris climate agreement has sparked worries, but Robinson believes he cannot stop the momentum of green energy transition.
Martin Griffiths, a veteran conflict mediator, also stresses the significance of the election, highlighting the US's influential role in global affairs. He notes that a Harris win could bring greater hope for international cooperation, while a Trump presidency would likely deepen instability.
The Pennsylvania US Presidential Election 2024 is set to take place on November 5. As one of the seven swing states, Pennsylvania has a total of 19 electoral votes in the Electoral College. The state has historically fluctuated between Democratic and Republican candidates, with Barack Obama winning twice and Donald Trump winning once.
Candidates running for office include Bob Casey (Democrat) and Dave McCormick (Republican). Voters can register until October 21, request mail-in/absentee ballots by October 29, and return their ballots by November 5 at 8:00 PM.