** Strong US economic data and inflation indicators have led to reduced expectations for a December rate cut by the Federal Reserve, according to Reuters. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has hinted at a slower pace of interest-rate cuts, while some policymakers remain uncertain about further reductions.
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Ukraine and Russia continue to experience intense conflict, with reports of Russian missile attacks on Kyiv and the capture of Ukrainian villages. The situation remains tense, with Ukraine's air force warning of a major attack threat.
**Undocumented migrants face uncertainty under Trump's immigration plans**
The incoming US administration has vowed to conduct mass deportations, sparking fears among undocumented migrants. While some believe they won't be affected, others live in fear of being swept up in raids and separated from their families.
The Arafat Brothers' Legacy Lives On: 20 Years After Their Deaths, Cairo's Palestine Hospital Continues to Serve Displaced Palestinians.
** In New Delhi, roadside barbers provide affordable haircuts and community spaces for working-class individuals. These informal businesses often serve as a lifeline for those struggling financially, with prices ranging from 30-50 rupees ($0.36-$0.59 USD) for a haircut or shave.
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Germany and Netherlands secure wins in UEFA Nations League, with Germany thrashing Bosnia 7-0 and Netherlands beating Hungary 4-0. A medical emergency on the Hungarian bench paused the match for several minutes before Adam Szalai was stretchered off.
New research reveals India's child stunting crisis is linked to decades-long caste discrimination, making it worse than many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite progress, nearly 36% of Indian children under five are stunted, highlighting the need for targeted nutrition and healthcare interventions.
** UN Climate Talks Face Criticism Over Host Country's Fossil Fuel Ties
The United Nations' COP climate talks have been criticized by key experts, including a former UN secretary general and former UN climate chief, for being "no longer fit for purpose" in addressing the fast-moving climate crisis. The criticism comes after Azerbaijan's president praised natural gas as a "gift from God" during the latest conference, while a senior official was accused of using their role to arrange meetings about potential fossil fuel deals.
The authors of the letter, which includes prominent figures such as Ban-Ki Moon and Christiana Figueres, are concerned about the slow pace of progress at COP talks and the selection process for hosting countries. They argue that host countries must demonstrate a high level of ambition in upholding the goals of the Paris agreement and propose smaller, more frequent COPs with clear accountability.
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** Experts Raise Concerns Over Musk's DOGE Plan, Citing Constitutional and Congressional Hurdles
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** Four individuals arrested for allegedly filing false insurance claims, claiming bear damage to luxury cars. The suspects received $141,839 in payments before an investigation revealed a bear costume was used as evidence.
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Delhi's primary schools close due to hazardous air pollution, with levels exceeding 50 times safe limits. Authorities enact measures, but critics argue they are ineffective.
Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of war crimes and ethnic cleansing in Gaza, citing forced displacement of 1.9 million people and destruction of vital resources.
US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democrat and military veteran, to head US Intelligence. Matt Gaetz, a firebrand congressman known for his loyalty to Trump, has been chosen as Attorney General. The appointments have sparked controversy due to the nominees' histories of questioning intelligence findings and facing ethics investigations.
** Republicans Win Majority in US House, Securing Control Over Government. The Republican Party has secured a majority in the US House of Representatives, following key wins in Arizona and California. This development gives them control over the government, alongside their hold on the Senate. President-elect Donald Trump's agenda is expected to be implemented, with Congress backing his plans for tax breaks, deportations, and economic reform.
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**Trump's Department of Government Efficiency Aims to Tackle Wasteful Spending**
President-elect Donald Trump has established a new department, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasked with reducing wasteful spending in the government. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy have been appointed as advisors to lead this effort. Open the Book's CEO, Josh Hart, suggests that they will focus on eliminating expenses with "no real thought or purpose behind it." Some potential areas for cost-cutting include:
* Sending checks to deceased individuals
* Funding animal-related projects, such as experiments on cats and monkeys
* Reviewing unemployment payments and Social Security benefits paid to prisoners
* Examining improper Medicaid and Medicare payments
* Investigating tax evasion by government employees
The Trump administration aims to tackle massive waste and fraud in $6.75 trillion of annual government spending.
** Bitcoin Surges Above $93,000 Amid Election and Inflation Data
Bitcoin's value has surpassed $93,000, driven by investors' reaction to the US election and inflation data. The cryptocurrency's price has risen 3% in response to these factors, with other digital currencies also experiencing gains.
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**Brazil on High Alert Ahead of G20 Summit**
A man carrying explosives attempted to enter Brazil's Supreme Court, leading to a suspected suicide blast that killed him instantly. The incident occurred just days before the country hosts the G20 summit, with world leaders including Indian PM Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden expected to attend.
** Microsoft President Warns US Not to Underestimate China's Technological Advancements
Microsoft's president, Brad Smith, has cautioned that the West should not assume China is lagging behind in technological developments. Speaking at a tech conference, Smith noted that China is rapidly closing the gap with the US and Europe, particularly in areas like 5G technology.
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US House control shift: Republicans secure majority with 218 seats, defeating Democrats in key states. Brazil's Supreme Court is rocked by a suspected suicide blast outside the building, ahead of the G20 Summit. New US administration's DOGE department tackles massive government waste and fraud.
Social media platform Bluesky gains 1 million users after US election, citing dissatisfaction with X's direction.