The U.S. embassy in Kyiv will remain closed on November 20 due to intelligence on a potential major air attack, urging U.S. citizens to shelter during any air alerts. This follows Ukraine’s recent use of U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory, coinciding with the war’s 1,000th day. The Biden administration had recently approved such strikes, intensifying tensions. Russia has consistently warned that missile attacks using U.S., British, or French weaponry on its territory would be viewed as direct NATO involvement in the conflict. The situation highlights escalating risks amid the ongoing war and strained global relations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has lowered the threshold for nuclear strikes, allowing their use in response to conventional attacks that critically threaten the sovereignty or territorial integrity of Russia or Belarus. This change follows reports that Ukraine used U.S.-made ATACMS missiles to strike deep inside Russia, with U.S. approval. Russia had previously warned NATO that enabling such strikes would be seen as direct involvement in the Ukraine war. Analysts note this marks a significant shift from Russia's 2020 doctrine, which limited nuclear strikes to existential threats. Despite this escalation, the U.S. has not adjusted its nuclear posture. Department of Defense deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh said that the updates to Russia's nuclear doctrine were not surprising and that they are part of "the same irresponsible rhetoric" Russia has engaged in for the past two years. She said that there are currently no indications Russia intends to deploy nuclear weapons in Ukraine, and no changes to the U.S. nuclear posture are deemed necessary at this time.
Live of the sixth flight test of SpaceX’s Starship. This flight test aims to expand the envelope on ship and booster capabilities and get closer to bringing reuse of the entire system online. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is expected to attend the launch.
Live of the sixth flight test of SpaceX’s Starship. This flight test aims to expand the envelope on ship and booster capabilities and get closer to bringing reuse of the entire system online. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is expected to attend the launch.
On November 19, 2024, Ukraine used U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike deep into Russian territory for the first time, targeting an arms depot in the Bryansk region. While Russia claimed to intercept five of six missiles, one missile caused a fire at a military facility, though no casualties or significant damage were reported. The attack followed a recent approval from President Biden, allowing Ukraine to use these long-range missiles to target Russian territory. Military experts believe the missiles will help Ukraine defend captured territories but unlikely change the overall course of the war. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov condemned the missile strikes, viewing them as a sign of Western escalation, while President Putin’s recent nuclear doctrine lowers the threshold for potential nuclear retaliation. Ukraine’s President Zelensky emphasized that decisive moments in the conflict are expected in the coming year, as tensions with Russia continue to escalate.
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a ₹213.14 crore fine on Meta for abusing its dominant position with WhatsApp's 2021 privacy policy update. The fine is coupled with directives to stop sharing user data with other Meta-owned apps for advertising purposes for five years. The policy update, which mandated data sharing across Meta’s ecosystem, faced backlash for undermining user autonomy. Meta disagrees with the decision and plans to appeal.
Narendra Modi and Giorgia Meloni, the prime ministers of India and Italy, unveiled a major five-year strategic action deal between the two countries at the G20 Summit in Brazil. The announcement came after the two leaders met on the sidelines of the summit on November 19.
A Russian-controlled segment of the International Space Station (ISS) is leaking air at an increasing rate, raising safety concerns. The leaks, first detected in 2019 in the Zvezda module, have worsened, prompting disagreements between NASA and Roscosmos over their severity. As per CNN report, NASA cites risks of structural failure, while Roscosmos downplays the threat but struggles to provide definitive proof. Crews have implemented safety measures, sealing off the affected area except during essential access. The issue highlights challenges with the aging ISS, slated for decommissioning by 2030. NASA plans to shift operations to commercial space stations but faces uncertainty about readiness for transition.
At the final Group of 20 summit of his presidency, President Joe Biden inadvertently missed the traditional group photo due to timing issues. He and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau arrived after the photo had already been taken, as the other world leaders posed together, smiling and raising linked hands. The photo was taken earlier than scheduled, and Biden, who had intended to be part of it, was not present. Chinese President Xi Jinping was positioned front and center in the photo, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov appeared in a less prominent spot in the back row. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also missed the photo. A senior Biden administration official attributed the oversight to "logistical issues," though further details were not provided. Despite the mishap, the leaders were seen chatting after the photo session, with the event unfolding against a picturesque Rio de Janeiro backdrop.
Lebanon and Hezbollah have agreed to a U.S. proposal for a ceasefire with Israel, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict. The ceasefire is to be based on U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, requiring Hezbollah to move weapons and fighters further from the Israeli border. Lebanon has expressed full support for the proposal, but its success now hinges on Israel's response. The ceasefire comes amid ongoing hostilities, with Hezbollah launching rockets at Israeli targets since October 8, 2023, and Israel escalating its military campaign in southern Lebanon. While residents of Haifa expressed hope for a ceasefire, many were skeptical due to the heavy damage from recent attacks. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that recent attacks on Iran had degraded its missile and nuclear capabilities, though he acknowledged that Iran’s path to a nuclear weapon had not been fully blocked.
Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus announced that a roadmap for the next general election would follow electoral reforms, marking his first 100 days in office. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has demanded a clear election timeline. Yunus highlighted the violence that ousted Sheikh Hasina, citing 1,500 deaths and 3,500 alleged abductions under her regime. The July-August protests, initially student-led, escalated into deadly unrest, forcing Hasina to flee to India. Yunus pledged justice for victims and efforts to bring perpetrators to international courts while reaffirming his government’s commitment to seek Hasina's extradition for accountability.
Australia’s Senate censured Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe on November 18 for protesting King Charles during his visit to parliament. Thorpe, an Indigenous activist, accused the monarch of genocide and rejected his sovereignty over Australia after he paid respects to traditional landowners in his speech. The censure motion, supported by both the ruling Labor party and opposition coalition, is a symbolic move with no legal consequences. Thorpe, from the DjabWurrung Gunnai Gunditjmara community, labelled those backing the censure as "hypocrites" and argued that it was a distraction from the real issues facing Australia, particularly Indigenous rights and injustices.
On November 17, 2024, an Israeli airstrike in Beirut killed Mohammad Afif, Hezbollah's media relations chief, in the Ras al-Nabaa neighborhood, a densely populated area. The strike hit a building, causing widespread destruction, but no evacuation warning was issued by the Israeli military beforehand. Afif had been a key figure in Hezbollah, serving as a media advisor to Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah and managing the group's Al-Manar TV station. The Israeli military later released videos showing explosions in southern Lebanon, claiming to have destroyed Hezbollah munitions and underground facilities. Israel's military campaign against Hezbollah, which began in late September, has escalated due to cross-border hostilities, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. Over a million Lebanese have been displaced, and the conflict has led to significant civilian suffering. Israel aims to secure the return of citizens evacuated from northern Israel due to Hezbollah's attacks.
On November 16, 2024, the National Museum of Natural History in Paris launched a Jurassic-themed light exhibit, featuring giant, illuminated replicas of dinosaurs, primitive birds, and sea creatures from the Jurassic period. The exhibit, designed to highlight the explosion of life 200 million years ago, showcases the gradual emergence of life from ancient seas. The sculptures, created in collaboration with scientists from the museum, are original designs illuminated with energy-efficient LED bulbs. They were produced by China Light Festival, a company from Sichuan, China, known for using traditional lantern-making techniques to create immersive light paths and experiences. The exhibit offers visitors a chance to experience a prehistoric world in an innovative and visually stunning way. Open until January 19, 2025, this light show offers a unique winter attraction for Parisians and tourists alike, blending science and art to transport visitors to a time long past.
On November 17, 2024, President Joe Biden made history as the first sitting U.S. president to visit the Amazon rainforest. His trip to Manaus, Brazil, highlighted the importance of preserving the rainforest to combat climate change, as its trees absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide. Biden met with local leaders, including Indigenous groups, working to protect the region and toured areas affected by severe drought. During his visit, Biden reiterated the U.S. commitment to clean energy and environmental policies, emphasizing that balancing the environment and economy is achievable. He also warned that President-elect Donald Trump’s climate policies could undo his administration’s progress. Biden announced a $50 million contribution to the Amazon Fund, bringing the U.S. commitment to $100 million. He also signed a proclamation designating November 17 as International Conservation Day, underscoring his dedication to global environmental efforts.
French farmers blocked a road near Paris, protesting a potential EU-Mercosur trade deal they say threatens their livelihoods. The agreement, aimed at finalising by year-end, has sparked anger over cheaper agricultural imports that lack domestic standards. Farmers are already reeling from poor harvests caused by rain, livestock disease, and delayed government measures following a snap election. Similar frustration arose earlier due to increased imports from Ukraine after Russia’s invasion. Arnaud Rousseau, head of the FNSEA, warned that tens of thousands of farms face financial trouble, with limited relief from the government. Farmers demand action against imports and burdensome regulations.
World leaders gathered in Rio de Janeiro for the G20 summit on November 17, 2024, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, and U.S. President Joe Biden among the key attendees. The summit's focus will be on issues like poverty, hunger, and global institutional reforms. Brazil has ramped up security, deploying troops, armored vehicles, and naval ships following a failed bomb attack on the Supreme Court in Brasília. In preparation for the summit, authorities have obscured views of the city's favelas with brightly painted walls, especially along the route that heads of state will take to the venue. The military has also been stationed near Rio’s Mare favela. Meanwhile, the G20’s influence on global finance, particularly climate funding, remains significant, as it controls the purse strings for multilateral development banks. Brazil also launched the G20 Favelas initiative to raise awareness of the challenges faced by favela residents.
Iran plans to open a "treatment facility" for women defying mandatory hijab laws, sparking global outrage. The clinic, announced by Mehri Talebi Darestani, aims to provide "scientific and psychological treatment" for hijab removal. Critics, including human rights groups, argue it escalates the crackdown on women’s rights. Amnesty International and activists warn of forced medication and torture in such facilities. The proposal follows increased arrests, disappearances, and Mahsa Amini’s 2022 death, which ignited mass protests. Critics, including lawyer Hossein Raisi, call the clinic un-Islamic and illegal. Surveillance tech and stricter enforcement underline the state’s prioritisation of control over economic issues.
northern Israel showed an Israeli airforce aircraft striking southern Lebanon on November 14. Ignited by the Gaza war, the conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah had been rumbling on for nearly a year before Israel went on the offensive in September, pounding Lebanon with airstrikes and sending troops into the south. Since hostilities erupt a year ago, Israeli attacks have killed at least 3,287 people in Lebanon, the majority in the last seven weeks,
Boeing announced plans to lay off approximately 17,000 employees, or 10% of its global workforce, as part of a broader effort to reduce costs and streamline operations. The cuts, effective in mid-January 2024, will impact employees at all levels, including executives, managers, and manufacturing workers. CEO Kelly Ortberg, who took over in August, cited the need for structural changes to ensure long-term competitiveness and financial stability. In addition to the layoffs, Boeing revealed the end of 767 production by 2027 and a delay in the 777X rollout to 2026 due to a defective part discovered earlier. The company has faced financial strain, including a $24 billion fundraising effort, and safety challenges, notably the grounding of the 737 Max after two fatal crashes. Boeing’s troubles also included a workers' strike involving 33,000 employees that temporarily halted production, though it ended in November 2023.
On November 14, New Zealand's parliament was temporarily suspended after Maori members staged a haka protest to oppose a controversial bill. The bill seeks to reinterpret the 1840 Waitangi Treaty between the British Crown and Maori chiefs, which many Indigenous people believe undermines their rights. Led by Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, the protest involved tearing up the bill, creating a powerful moment in the House. Despite the uproar, the bill passed its first reading and will proceed to a select committee. This act of defiance has sparked heated debates across the nation.
On November 13, 2024, two explosions outside Brazil's Supreme Court led to the evacuation of justices and left one person dead. The first blast occurred in a parking lot near the court, followed by a second explosion in front of the building. The dead man’s body was found in the square, but his connection to the attack is unclear. Brazilian police have since launched an investigation, with a bomb squad deployed to the scene. The explosions occurred near the Plaza of the Three Powers, which is in the heart of Brasilia, close to the presidential palace, where President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had just left. This incident comes just days before Brazil hosts the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro and a state visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping. Authorities have increased security in the capital, raising concerns ahead of these major international events. The explosions are being treated as a possible attack.
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Republican Representative Matt Gaetz as his nominee for attorney general, marking a pivotal selection for his new administration. Gaetz’s nomination, pending Senate approval, underscores Trump’s focus on reasserting control over the Justice Department and pursuing an aggressive agenda. Trump praised Gaetz's commitment to ending “weaponized” government, securing borders, and restoring trust in federal justice. The role of attorney general is viewed as essential to Trump's plans for mass deportations, pardoning January 6 rioters, and retaliating against previous investigations. Gaetz’s selection reflects Trump’s desire for loyalty and alignment with his post-election priorities.
Observed annually on November 14, World Diabetes Day highlights the global impact of diabetes, affecting around 10 crore people in India. Diabetes can lead to severe health risks, including Diabetic Retinopathy, a leading cause of vision loss. Learn about the importance of early detection and preventive care.
President-elect Donald Trump returned to the White House on November 13 for the first time since his election victory, meeting with President Joe Biden to discuss the transition of power. The two sat down in the Oval Office, where Biden assured Trump of a smooth transition and pledged to ensure Trump was well accommodated. Trump expressed confidence in the process, saying, "It'll be as smooth as it can get." This meeting marked a stark contrast to their previous years of intense rivalry, with the two having starkly different views on key issues such as climate change, Russia, and trade.
"Christmas at Kew" returns for its 12th year, offering visitors a magical light trail through Kew Gardens, bringing the famous botanical gardens to life during the winter months. The event features popular attractions like the Palm House light show and several new installations. Originally created to attract visitors during the darkest, coldest time of the year, it has now become a major annual event, drawing hundreds of thousands of people. A key focus of the trail is to foster a connection with nature, with the trees showcased as the "stars" of the event. While the experience is festive and fun, Kew Gardens also weaves sustainability messages throughout the event, encouraging visitors to reflect on their environmental impact. Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hopes that "Christmas at Kew" inspires first-time visitors to return and explore more of its natural beauty. The event runs from November 13, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Donald Trump’s old video went viral on how to deal with radical Islamism. The video comes from PM Modi's visit to the USA in 2019 after the formation of his second term.
US President-elect Donald Trump appointed Mike Waltz as his new National Security Advisor, signaling a tougher stance on China. Waltz, a former Army Green Beret and vocal critic of China, advocates for shifting US focus from Europe and the Middle East to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. He supports increased defense spending, particularly to deter Chinese aggression over Taiwan. Waltz’s role may strengthen US-India relations, aligning with India's strategic interests against China. His appointment also emphasizes Trump's "America First" agenda, which may raise concerns among NATO allies, as US resources shift towards countering China in the Indo-Pacific.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has accused China of intensifying pressure on the Philippines to cede its sovereign rights in the South China Sea, labelling the country a "victim of Chinese aggression." This year, disputes have focused on contested areas like the Scarborough Shoal. Teodoro recently met with Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles, reflecting closer security ties and shared concerns over Chinese actions. In response, China warned of retaliation if Manila continues what it views as "infringement and provocation." The Philippine Maritime Council condemned China’s baselines in the region, calling them a sovereignty violation and highlighting regional tensions over China’s influence.
On November 11, riots broke out in Amsterdam following a soccer match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax, which had sparked violent clashes earlier in the week. Police arrested several people as unrest continued in the city, including the setting of a tram on fire, likely by fireworks. No injuries occurred in the tram incident, as it was empty at the time. The violence is part of a broader wave of unrest linked to the match, including attacks on Israeli fans, which Dutch authorities have condemned as antisemitic. The Dutch Prime Minister and other officials denounced the violence, and investigations into the incidents are ongoing. Four suspects, including minors, were detained, and dozens of others were fined for disturbances. Videos from the riots showed police confronting attackers who shouted antisemitic and anti-Israeli slurs. Tensions remain high, with antisemitic incidents rising in the Netherlands amid the Gaza conflict.
A wildfire, known as the Jennings Creek Fire, is burning along the New York-New Jersey border, having consumed about 5,000 acres and is 20% contained. Despite some rainfall on November 11, which slowed the fire's progression, strong winds and dry conditions continue to fuel its spread. The fire has already caused one fatality, with an 18-year-old New York State Parks employee, Dariel Vasquez, dying in the blaze. The fire is a part of a broader wildfire crisis in the region, with New Jersey experiencing a week of multiple wildfires. As of the latest reports, parts of New Jersey face "extreme" fire danger, particularly in the southern areas. While rain has offered temporary relief, forecasts predict worsened conditions with stronger winds and lower humidity. Local authorities are working to establish containment lines to prevent further damage, while hundreds of firefighters are mobilized to tackle the crisis.
In a compelling address to the UN Security Council, India's permanent representative emphasized the urgent need for equitable representation and meaningful reform within the council. Highlighting decades of stalled progress, India urged for the inclusion of underrepresented regions, such as Africa, Latin America, and Asia, and pushed for a move away from outdated frameworks. India remains committed to multilateralism and seeks constructive dialogue to ensure the UN's credibility and effectiveness in today’s evolving global landscape.
Ukraine launched its largest drone strike on Moscow since the war began, targeting key areas and forcing flight diversions from three major airports. At least one person was injured, though air traffic resumed. In response, Russian air defences shot down additional drones over Western Russia. Meanwhile, Russia's overnight drone strike on Odesa in southern Ukraine injured two people and caused significant damage to buildings. Both sides reported successful drone attacks on each other, with Russia claiming to have destroyed multiple Ukrainian military targets, while Ukraine repelled Russian offensives in eastern Ukraine. No casualties were reported from the Ukrainian counterattacks.
On the impact on India-Canada relations after Donald Trump was elected as US President, Canadian Journalist Terry Milewski said, "Trump is nothing if not unpredictable. He gets along very well with PM Modi and Modi has been very assiduous in peppering the incoming administration with praise and looking forward to working with his friend Donald Trump. I expect that regardless of the change of administration, more or less the only way out that I see is a grubby little deal...The outlines of a deal are pretty clear to me. That deal would involve concessions off-camera by India, the US, and Canada. As part of that deal, India would get what it wants in terms of sweeping this mostly under the rug, telling the public that we're through this, we've scored another great triumph, there's no public trial and quietly and off-camera without public announcement will hold somebody to account, a sacrificial lamb that we can throw under the bus to take responsibility... The Americans would get what they want. They would preserve the important strategic relationship between the United States and India, which is of surpassing importance...Canada would get what it wants. It will have exposed Indian intentions that the plot was real, no Canadian citizen is fair game for a foreign country to come here and murder them..."
Japanese lawmakers voted for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to remain in office despite his coalition losing its parliamentary majority in last month’s election. Ishiba, who took office on October 1, must now lead a fragile minority government as tensions rise with the U.S., China, and North Korea, while domestic pressure grows over the cost of living. His Liberal Democratic Party and coalition partner Komeito won the most seats but no longer hold a majority, requiring support from small opposition parties to pass policies. The vote in parliament went to a runoff for the first time in 30 years, with Ishiba ultimately prevailing.
ens of thousands of Spaniards marched in the eastern city of Valencia on Saturday to demand the resignation of the regional president in charge of the emergency response to last week’s catastrophic floods that left more than 200 dead and others missing. A group of protesters clashed with riot police in front of Valencia's city hall, where the protesters started their march to the seat of the regional government. Police used batons to beat them back. Regional leader Carlos Mazón is under immense pressure after his administration failed to issue flood alerts to citizens’ cell phones until hours after the flooding started on the night of Oct0ber 29. Many marchers held up homemade signs or chanted “Mazón Resign!” Others carried signs with messages like “You Killed Us!” Upon arrival at the regional government seat, some protesters slung mud on the building and left handprints of the muck on its facade.
President-elect Donald Trump continued to fill key positions in his administration, appointing Tom Homan, former acting ICE director, to oversee U.S. borders. Homan, who served in Trump’s first term, is also considered for Secretary of Homeland Security. As "Border Czar," Homan will manage the deportation of illegal immigrants, a central issue in Trump’s campaign. In addition, Trump met with investor Scott Bessent, a potential nominee for U.S. Treasury Secretary. CNN reported that Trump offered Republican Representative Elise Stefanik the position of U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, though his team did not confirm or deny the offer.
President-elect Donald Trump recently spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, advising against escalating the Ukraine war and highlighting the U.S. military presence in Europe. Trump also contacted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, though Kyiv’s foreign ministry wasn’t informed about his call with Putin. President Biden plans to meet Trump, focusing on a peaceful transfer of power and ongoing commitments in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Trump, who has criticised the $174 billion U.S. support for Ukraine, has suggested Ukraine may need to cede territory for peace. He previously claimed he could quickly end the war, without explaining his approach.
Vivek Ramaswamy announced on November 10 that mass deportations will be a primary focus for Donald Trump upon returning to the White House. Trump’s campaign focused on a strict immigration crackdown, with his running mate JD Vance estimating up to 1 million deportations annually. Trump highlighted crimes reportedly committed by undocumented immigrants, though research shows immigrant crime rates are not higher than those of U.S. natives. His administration aims to involve the military, diplomats, and Republican-led states to enforce the policy. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found 25% of respondents support prioritising immigration, though public opinion remains divided on mass deportation plans.
Farhad Shakeri, an Afghan expat previously deported from the U.S. in 2008, has been named by the Department of Justice as a key figure in Iran's alleged assassination plot against President-elect Donald Trump. Backed by Iran, Shakeri's role has highlighted escalating tactics targeting U.S. leaders in retaliation for Qassem Soleimani’s death.
Qatar has paused its efforts to mediate a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza, stating that talks will only resume when Israel and Hamas demonstrate genuine commitment to negotiations. This decision comes after failed discussions and a conclusion that Hamas' Doha office no longer serves its intended role. The setback marks a challenging turn in attempts at achieving peace in the region.
After Donald Trump's victory in the election, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, vowed to protect Minnesota from what he described as a "hateful agenda" that could emerge under Trump's leadership. Walz expressed his frustration with the election result, particularly the fact that many citizens had chosen Trump over the Democratic ticket. Despite the loss, Walz called for continued effort and unity within the Democratic Party, urging them to fight for their values while also seeking areas of common ground with their opponents. Trump's victory came after a tumultuous campaign marked by two assassination attempts on his life. Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, entered the race only after President Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the contest. Trump’s election marked a dramatic political shift, with the outcome leaving Democrats to reassess their strategy moving forward and focus on protecting state-level governance from harmful policies.
Kamala Harris' campaign for the White House focused on mobilizing voters upset over the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, which ended the federal right to abortion. Despite Harris' efforts, exit polls showed that abortion was not a top priority for most voters, with only 14% citing it as their primary issue, compared to nearly a third who said the economy was their main concern. Harris did better than Trump with women voters (53% to 45%), but her share of the female vote was smaller than Biden's in 2020, and Trump made gains among women, improving by 3 percentage points. While Harris campaigned for a federal law to restore abortion rights, Trump argued the issue should be left to states. As abortion laws become more state-specific, future state-level elections, particularly for state supreme courts, will be crucial in determining abortion access.
Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan’s supporters rallied through Pakistan streets, demanding his release from jail. Thousands of PTI workers organised a massive rally in Pakistan’s Swabi as part of the campaign. Khan supporters raised “Who will save Pakistan, Imran Khan, Imran Khan” slogans during the demonstration. Meanwhile, an unidentified person was seen raising the USA flag during the massive rally. However, the flag was later lowered by the people at the rally. Notably, over 60 Democratic lawmakers wrote to US President Joe Biden last month, urging him to secure Khan’s release. Khan's party backed candidates won most seats in February's election but fell short of majority against the then Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa.
President-elect Donald Trump announced on November 9 that former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and ex-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will not join his upcoming administration, despite his appreciation for their past service. Trump, who made the statement on social media, highlighted his previous positive working relationship with both figures. Haley, a former South Carolina governor, endorsed Trump for president after initially criticising him in the primaries. Pompeo, previously considered for a potential Defence Secretary role, ruled out a 2023 presidential run. Both Haley and Pompeo have yet to publicly respond to Trump’s decision as his team forms.
Donald Trump’s return to the White House brings significant implications for India-U.S. relations, sparking fresh debates around security, trade, and regional partnerships. With a renewed ‘America First’ vision, how might Trump reshape this critical alliance? From potential H1B visa adjustments to joint counter terrorism efforts and Indo-Pacific strategies, we dive into the expected shifts and surprises for both countries. Join Payal Tiwari Sharma from Moneycontrol for insights into the evolving Trump-Modi dynamic and what it could mean for India’s global standing.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen suggests the EU could increase liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from the U.S. to deter President-elect Donald Trump from imposing tariffs. During his campaign, Trump vowed to bring jobs back to America with tariffs up to 20% on imports, pushing Brussels to prepare a strong response. Von der Leyen, speaking at an EU summit, proposed replacing Russian LNG with American supplies to ease tensions. Hungarian PM Viktor Orban, a Trump ally, anticipates tough talks but hopes for a beneficial deal. Trump warned the EU about "paying a big price" for insufficient U.S. purchases.
A federal judge has paused deadlines in Donald Trump’s 2020 election subversion case following his recent victory in the 2024 presidential election. Prosecutors requested more time, citing the unique situation of his impending return to the White House. DOJ policies generally prevent a sitting president from facing criminal prosecution, prompting discussions on how to proceed with the case. Trump’s not guilty plea last year came amidst allegations of conspiring to obstruct vote certification after his 2020 loss. The DOJ is set to update the court on December 2 with next steps
Two terrorists were neutralized in a joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police in Sopore, Baramulla district. Security forces recovered a large cache of weapons, including automatic firearms, ammunition, and grenades, suggesting plans for a major attack. Brigadier Deepak Mohan, Commanding Officer of the 7 Sector, shared insights on the successful operation.
Kamala Harris delivered a concession speech on November 6, 2024, after her loss to Republican Donald Trump in the presidential race. While acknowledging the nation’s sense of uncertainty, she called for optimism and faith. Harris had become the Democratic nominee after Joe Biden stepped aside, but despite bringing enthusiasm and fundraising to the campaign, she struggled to address voter concerns over the economy and immigration. Trump’s improved performance in key battleground states, along with a sense of nostalgia for the pre-COVID economy, contributed to her defeat. Harris also faced challenges with limited time, having only 100 days to organize a national campaign. Political expert Andra Gillespie noted Harris’ relative lack of recognition compared to Trump, and difficulty distancing herself from the unpopular Biden administration. Future research may explore whether gender stereotypes and sexism played a role in the election’s outcome, particularly in how voters perceived Harris.