** President-elect Trump has nominated Chris Wright, a fracking magnate and climate change sceptic, as energy secretary. Wright has advocated for fossil fuel production and denied the existence of a climate crisis.
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Japan and US, along with Australia, announce joint amphibious training exercises in northern Australia amid concerns over China's military activities. The trilateral meeting reaffirms commitment to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
** Thousands join Berlin march against Russian President Putin, demanding end to Ukraine war and freedom for political prisoners.
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Brazilian first lady Janja Lula da Silva uses expletive against Elon Musk at G20 event, sparking diplomatic tension. Context: Ongoing tensions between Brazil's government and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk over social media regulation and free speech.
** Israeli Strike in Beirut: Hezbollah Spokesman Killed, Multiple Perspectives Emerge. Context and Background Matter.
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Jorge Martin wins 2024 MotoGP championship, becoming first independent rider world champion in the era. He secured third place in the season-ending Solidarity Grand Prix, with Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati taking the win and Marc Marquez finishing second.
South African authorities continue to enforce laws on illegal mining, sparking controversy and concerns over human rights.
Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma's NPP withdraws support from BJP-led government in Manipur amid ongoing violence and security concerns. Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviews security situation, promising a detailed discussion on Monday.
** Democrats face challenge in winning back working-class voters, experts say. The party's failure to effectively communicate with and represent the interests of working-class people has led to a decline in support for them.
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** Dylan Thomas, Heir to $295 Million, Accused of Brutal Stabbing; Mental Health in Focus.
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US-China relations to be tested under Trump's presidency
Xi Jinping and Joe Biden meet on sidelines of Apec summit, pledging cooperation but analysts warn of potential volatility.
President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to raise tariffs on Chinese imports, a move that could escalate tensions.
** China's Xi Jinping warns US against crossing "red lines" in support of Taiwan, offers cooperation with Trump. Amid concerns over trade wars and diplomatic upheaval, President Xi outlined four critical areas where the US should not intervene: Taiwan's status, democracy and human rights issues, China's development interests, and pathways to growth.
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Israeli strike on Beirut building kills Hezbollah spokesman, officials say.
"Israeli forces have launched a series of airstrikes in Gaza, killing at least 50 people and injuring dozens more. A residential building was hit in Beit Lahiya, with reports of many trapped under the rubble. Emergency workers were unable to reach the site due to the Israeli siege. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue."
** Israeli forces reach deepest point in Lebanon since October 1 invasion, according to Lebanese state media. Both Israel and Iran-aligned Hezbollah have exchanged fire for over a year, escalating fighting since late September. The death toll in Lebanon has climbed to 3,452 with over 14,600 injured.
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** Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to receive Nigeria's 2nd highest national award, strengthening bilateral ties.
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** Hostage crisis near Paris resolved after police detain knife-wielding man. Four staff members were freed without harm, and a 35-40 year-old suspect was apprehended.
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** Brazil's First Lady Janja Lula da Silva expresses strong dislike for Elon Musk, sparking controversy. In a speech at the G20 social event, she used a profanity to express her disdain for the billionaire entrepreneur and SpaceX CEO. Musk responded with a cryptic message suggesting that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's party might lose the upcoming elections.
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** OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Criticizes Elon Musk's AI Chatbot Over Presidential Endorsement, Sparks Debate on X.
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Israeli PM Netanyahu's home in Caesarea targeted with flash bombs, police launch investigation.