** Bitcoin Surges to New High, Market Confidence Soars
Bitcoin has reached an all-time high near $81,000, driven by investor confidence and the recent US elections. Open interest in bitcoin's price surpassing $90,000 rose to over $2.8 billion on Deribit derivatives exchange. The market surge coincides with the easing of monetary policy and a wave of pro-crypto candidates securing office.
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US President-elect Trump and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz have discussed a "return to peace in Europe" amid ongoing conflicts. The conversation comes as Scholz faces political crises, including potential snap elections due to disagreements over Ukraine aid. Trump has vowed to end the Ukraine war quickly, but details on his approach remain unclear.
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"A unique phenomenon in India's Mizoram state has been linked to famines every 50 years, according to a Forbes report. The blooming of the Melocanna baccifera bamboo species triggers an infestation by black rats (Rattus rattus), which destroys crops and leads to food shortages. This cyclical event, called "mautam", has been recorded in the state since 1911. Researchers suggest that the massive rat population is attracted to the nutrient-rich seeds produced during the blooming stage, leading to agricultural crises."
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President-elect Trump pressures GOP Senate leadership hopefuls to speed up cabinet appointments, citing constitutional clause.
**Conflict Escalation Continues Despite Diplomatic Efforts**
Russia and Ukraine have exchanged record drone strikes, with Russia launching 145 drones against Ukraine and Moscow claiming to have intercepted 34 Ukrainian drones. This development comes despite a call between US President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on de-escalation.
US President-elect Trump and German Chancellor Scholz Discuss "Return to Peace in Europe" After Election Call. The two leaders agreed to work towards a return to peace in Europe, with Trump criticizing Biden's support for Ukraine and seeking to end the conflict.
US President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly discussed the Ukraine conflict in their first post-election call. Trump warned Putin against escalating the situation, referencing "Washington's sizeable military presence in Europe." The conversation aimed to achieve peace in Europe.
China's consumer prices rose at a slower pace in October, with an increase of 0.3% from last year, marking the lowest growth rate in four months. The country's producer price deflation deepened, with a decline of 2.9% from last year. Despite stimulus measures, analysts say the package will do little to boost economic activity and prices in the near term.
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"Powerful earthquake hits eastern Cuba, adding to recent storm-related challenges. A 6.8-magnitude quake struck about 40km south of Bartolome Maso, causing landslides and damage to homes and power lines. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel vows to prioritize life-saving efforts as the government assesses the damage."
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** Haiti's Transitional Council Removes Prime Minister Amid Ongoing Political Turmoil
Haiti's transitional council has signed a decree removing interim Prime Minister Garry Conille, sparking further instability in the Caribbean nation. The move comes amidst deepening political turmoil and infighting within the council itself. While some argue that the council has the authority to make such decisions, others claim it is unconstitutional, as only the Haitian Parliament or democratically elected leaders should have this power.
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** Canada Honors Legacy of Murray Sinclair, Trailblazing Figure in Indigenous Rights. The country is remembering Sinclair's contributions to truth and reconciliation.
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** US President-elect Trump faces pressure from Biden on Ukraine policy as transition meeting approaches. The outgoing administration is urging Congress and the incoming government to maintain support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
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US President-elect Donald Trump reportedly advised Russian President Vladimir Putin against escalating the war in Ukraine during their first phone conversation after Trump's election victory. The call was said to have taken place at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, with Trump reminding Putin of Washington's military presence in Europe and expressing interest in follow-up conversations to discuss a resolution to the conflict.
Mattel's Wicked dolls packaging mistake lists adult website instead of movie link, sparking social media reactions. The error has been spotted by fans who purchased the singing dolls inspired by the musical and upcoming movie. Mattel recommends the dolls for children aged four and above.
** Saudi and Iranian military chiefs hold rare meeting, call for increased security cooperation.
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Refugees in Russia's Kursk Region Protest Lack of Compensation and Housing Amidst Uncertainty.
Trump considers several candidates for key cabinet roles, including trade representative and interior department head. Potential appointees have varying backgrounds in finance, politics, and public policy.
**Canadian Authorities Arrest Khalistani Terrorist**
The Canadian Police have apprehended Arshdeep Singh, a close associate of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a slain Khalistani terrorist. The arrest comes after a shootout in Canada on October 27-28. Singh is accused of various crimes, including murder, target killings, and extortion.
**Background:**
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed in Canada last year, sparking diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. Indian authorities had named several individuals as suspects in connection with his death.
**Multiple Perspectives:** This incident highlights the complexities of cross-border terrorism and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in addressing these issues.
** Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province sees violence escalate, with five security forces killed in terror attack. Authorities respond with military operation against rebels and extremists.
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** Israeli PM Netanyahu confirms he authorized Lebanon pager blasts, had three conversations with US President-elect Trump on Iran threat.
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