** Russia-Ukraine Conflict Enters Day 993, Key Developments Amid Ongoing Tensions.
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US Special Counsel Seeks Pause in Trump Classified Documents Case
Outgoing prosecutor Jack Smith has requested a pause in the federal case against President-elect Donald Trump, citing the need to assess the impact of his pending return to the White House. The move follows a previous request for a similar pause in a separate federal case accusing Trump of attempting to overturn his defeat in the 2020 election.
** Dramatic Rescue Caught on Camera: Police Officer Saves Man Trapped in Submerged Car
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"Scientists have discovered a massive coral in the Pacific Ocean, measuring 34m wide, 32m long, and 5.5m high - making it the largest ever recorded. This ancient organism, estimated to be over 300 years old, is believed to have survived due to its location in deeper waters. The finding comes as climate change threatens coral reefs globally, with a third of warm-water corals facing extinction. Small island nations are vulnerable to climate change's impacts on their economies and ecosystems."
** Explosions outside Brazil's Supreme Court leave one dead, investigations underway. Context: previous instances of mass disorder in Brasilia and upcoming visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
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** Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Escalates: Multiple Fatalities on Both Sides in Gaza.
Four Israeli soldiers were killed in combat in the northern Gaza Strip, according to the IDF, while at least 14 Palestinians died in an Israeli air strike. This escalation comes as Arab and Islamic leaders condemn Israel's actions in Gaza.
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Philippines Bracing for Fifth Storm in a Month; Typhoon Usagi Expected to Make Landfall Soon.
Shell wins appeal on emissions ruling, but Dutch court agrees company must act to protect climate. The Hague's appeals court dismissed a requirement for Shell to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030, citing unclear impact on climate change.
** Donald Trump's granddaughter shares behind-the-scenes vlog of US election night victory celebration.
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** A hit-and-run attack in China's Zhuhai has left 20 people wounded, with a suspect arrested. The incident occurred at a sports centre despite high security for an upcoming airshow.
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** Silicon Valley billionaire Vinod Khosla sends congratulatory message to Elon Musk after Trump's win, urging him to push for better FDA regulation and climate attention.
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Rosneft, Russia's state-backed oil giant, has denied reports of a potential merger with Gazprom Neft and Lukoil. The proposed deal would create the world's second-largest oil producer, but company executives have expressed resistance. Rosneft accused media outlets of attempting to "distract attention" and hinted at possible legal action.
Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/12/rosneft-denies-reports-of-mega-oil-merger-plans-a86988
Italian government's asylum seeker processing plan hits setback in court ruling. The program, which involves sending migrants from "safe" countries to Albania for screening, has been criticized by rights groups and raised questions about international law compliance.
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"Rembrandt's Night Watch, a 1642 masterpiece, is undergoing its largest restoration at Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum. Following five years of research and testing, eight restorers will remove the varnish applied in 1975-76 to reveal the painting's history and original appearance."
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President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering Florida lawmakers Marco Rubio and Michael Waltz for top foreign relations jobs. Sources suggest Rubio may be tapped as Secretary of State, a role that would require Senate approval. Waltz, a decorated military veteran and Congressional member, is favorite to become National Security Adviser. Both men have taken tough stances on China and other global issues.
Breaking News: Russian Strike on Zelensky's Hometown Leaves 4 Dead, Including Mother and Children. Rescue operations complete; 14 wounded. Context: Ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Violence erupts in Amsterdam following UEFA match, with clashes between Israeli and pro-Palestinian groups. Over 60 people arrested, including five more overnight, amid reports of anti-Semitic incidents and provocation on both sides.
** UK lawmakers to vote on historic assisted dying bill, with proposed legislation set to make assisted dying legal in England and Wales. The bill aims to provide "strictest protections" for patients seeking to end their lives, but critics raise concerns over potential for coercion and gaps in safeguards.
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** North Korea and Russia Strengthen Military Ties with Ratification of Historic Defence Pact
North Korean state media reports that Pyongyang has ratified a defence pact with Moscow, deepening their military cooperation. The deal, forged during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea in June, aims to provide mutual support if either nation comes under attack. This move comes as North Korea reportedly sent thousands of troops to bolster Russia's forces in Ukraine, sparking concerns from Western and South Korean sources.
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Ukrainian authorities report a Russian strike on Kryvyi Rih resulted in 4 deaths, including a mother and her three children. A total of 14 people were wounded in the attack. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia.