American angst: Survey reveals 70% feel US heading in wrong direction November 30, 2023 at 12:38AM

The annual Reagan National Defense Survey reveals that only 25% of Americans believe the United States is heading in the right direction, marking a significant shift from previous years. Congress faces low confidence levels, with only 5% expressing "great confidence." Top concerns include inflation, gas prices, groceries, jobs, the economy, politics, partisanship, corruption, incompetent leaders, and immigration. Americans are also worried about cyberattacks, terrorist attacks,etc.

Kremlin says Putin to hold annual news conference, public phone in on December 14 November 29, 2023 at 11:06PM

The Kremlin said on Thursday that Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold his annual news conference, as well as field questions from the public, on Dec. 14. Putin, in power as either president or prime minister since 1999, has yet to announce whether or not he will seek another six-year term at a presidential election in March next year, but is widely expected to do so. Six sources told Reuters earlier this month that Putin had decided to run, a move that would keep him in power.

China's Xi sends condolences to Biden over Kissinger's death November 29, 2023 at 11:25PM

China's President Xi Jinping and senior Chinese officials have sent messages of condolence to US President Joe Biden and others after the passing of veteran US diplomat Henry Kissinger, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Thursday. Kissinger, who served as secretary of state and national security adviser in the administrations of Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, first visited Beijing in 1971, paving the way for the US diplomatic opening to China.

Russian missile strikes kills one, wounds 10 in east Ukraine, Kyiv says November 29, 2023 at 11:01PM

One person killed, 10 wounded and four trapped under rubble following Russian missile attacks in Ukraine's Donetsk region. Six missiles fired at settlements in the region occupied by Russian forces. Shelling injured 10 people, including four children, with five more trapped under rubble. Rescuers found one body, four others including a child still trapped. Wounded include a family with two children and two 13-year-olds. Apartment block, private houses, police station, cars, and garages damaged.

EU agreement on reducing industrial emissions November 29, 2023 at 12:46AM

EU member countries and the European Parliament said Wednesday they have reached a preliminary agreement on curbing industrial emissions, including those from intensive poultry and pig farms and from ore mines. The deal, struck late Tuesday, would "reduce harmful emissions from industry and improve public access to information," the European Council, representing member states, said in a statement. The lead EU lawmaker on the file, Radan Kanev, said it would "significantly" reduce emissions.

Bangladesh opposition vows to continue protests despite 'autocratic' crackdown November 29, 2023 at 12:36AM

May 9 violence was an attempt to topple Army Chief Gen Asim Munir: Ex-Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif November 29, 2023 at 12:13AM

Ukraine tells Nato it won't 'back down' in Russia fight November 28, 2023 at 11:28PM

Ukraine's foreign minister asserts that it will not back down in its fight against Russia, despite doubts over US support and minimal progress on the front line. Ukraine's strategic goal of territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders remains unchanged. There are concerns that a lack of adequate support from the West could force Ukraine to seek a compromise with Russian President Vladimir Putin from a position of weakness. Ukraine is pushing to join Nato to ensure it is covered by the US-led alliance's protective umbrella.

Israel and Hamas extend their truce, but it seems only a matter of time before the war resumes November 27, 2023 at 11:17PM

Israel and Hamas continue their truce, with Hamas promising to release more hostages. Israel faces pressure to spare Palestinian civilians in the upcoming resumption of war. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to visit the region and push for an extension of the truce and the release of more hostages. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls for a long-term cease-fire and the release of all hostages. Israel plans to resume the war and end Hamas' rule in Gaza.

Russia-Ukraine war: Could Avdiivka become next Bakhmut? November 27, 2023 at 12:28AM

Avdiivka, a coal hub in Donetsk, is emblematic of the protracted war between Russian forces and Ukrainian troops. The town, now under Ukrainian control, faces relentless assault from Russian forces attempting to encircle and capture it. Avdiivka's population has dwindled to 1,350 residents from 30,000 before the war. It holds strategic value due to its proximity to Donetsk and its coke-producing plant. The town is at risk of further escalation, with residents facing shortages and constant shelling.

Global watchdog urges UN Security Council to consider all options to protect Darfur civilians November 26, 2023 at 11:08PM

An international watchdog urges the United Nations Security Council to consider all options to protect civilians in Sudan's Darfur region after recent attacks on non-Arabs. The conflict between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese military has displaced over 6 million people and resulted in widespread violence and atrocities. The RSF and their allied Arab militias have attacked the town of Ardamata, killing over 800 people, according to the UN refugee agency.

China pledges deeper trade ties with Vietnam November 26, 2023 at 12:00AM

Chinese Commerce minister Wang Wentao pledged to deepen bilateral trade ties with Vietnam during a meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Ho Chi Minh City. China-Vietnam trade cooperation includes strategic areas such as the digital economy, green development, and cross-border e-commerce. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong held talks on bilateral ties, land borders, and maritime issues with Vietnam's Deputy Foreign minister Nguyen Minh Vu.

Cargo ship carrying 14 people sinks off Lesbos November 25, 2023 at 11:42PM

The Greek coastguard said on Sunday that a Comoros-flagged cargo ship carrying 14 people has sank off the island of Lesbos, with strong winds blowing in the area. Citing the coastguard, ANA said it sank in the sea area 4.5 nautical miles southwest of Lesbos.

Ailing Pope to recite Sunday prayer from residence November 25, 2023 at 11:26PM

Pope Francis went to a hospital in Rome on Saturday for a scan, which the Vatican said had ruled out lung complications after a bout of flu forced him to cancel his activities.

'India-Israel bond extends from our 'DNA' to fight terror' November 25, 2023 at 11:00PM

Israeli Consul General to Mumbai, Kobbi Shoshani, expressed solidarity with the victims of the 26/11 terror attacks and compared them to the recent attack on Israel by Hamas. He emphasized the bond between India and Israel in fighting against terrorism. Israeli Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, also paid homage to the victims and stressed the need for global collaboration in combating terrorism. Notably, six Jews were among the 166 people killed during the Mumbai attacks.

Malaysian opposition leader makes U-turn on stepping down as party president November 24, 2023 at 11:11PM

Muhyiddin Yassin plans to contest the presidency of his party, Bersatu, in the upcoming internal elections. This comes after his announcement to step down as the party's leader. The Malay-dominated opposition alliance is uncertain about its future leadership without Muhyiddin, who has broad appeal. Bersatu leads the Perikatan Nasional opposition bloc along with a conservative Islamist party. The opposition made gains in regional polls, which poses a threat to prime minister Anwar Ibrahim's multi-ethnic alliance.

China offers visa-free entry for citizens of France, Germany, Italy November 23, 2023 at 10:59PM

China will exempt citizens from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia from needing visas for visits until November 2024. This move aims to boost post-pandemic tourism. The Chinese government has been taking various steps, including restoring international flight routes, to revive the tourism sector. Additionally, China is trying to improve its global image after disagreements with Western nations on issues such as COVID-19, human rights, Taiwan, and trade.

'Everyone was in a panic': displaced flee Myanmar's military November 23, 2023 at 10:57PM

A civil war in western Myanmar, fueled by clashes between government security forces and the Arakan Army, an armed group belonging to an ethnic minority alliance, has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. The conflict has expanded to multiple fronts, with the junta also battling coordinated attacks in the north and east. As the junta troops closed in on the coastal town of Pauktaw, nearly 335,000 people fled their homes, seeking shelter in Buddhist monasteries.

Nepal: Police clash with 'pro-monarchy' protestors in Kathmandu; teargas, water cannons used November 23, 2023 at 12:14AM

A clash erupted between Nepal police and pro-monarchy protestors, led by businessman Durga Prasai, who is organizing the Nation, Nationality, Religion-Culture and Citizen Rescue Campaign. The police used water cannons and teargas to disperse the crowd. Prasai has threatened to topple the current Nepal government and reinstate the monarchy and Hindu Kingdom. Earlier, clashes occurred between Prasai's supporters and CPN-UML's youth wing at Balkhu in Kathmandu. The authorities have prohibited protests in certain areas, including the Maitighar to Baneshwar road section.

In political shift to the far right, anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders wins big in Dutch elections November 22, 2023 at 11:16PM

Anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders wins Dutch elections, signaling a rise of far-right ideology. Wilders is set to lead talks to form the next governing coalition and aims to become the first far-right prime minister of the Netherlands. His election program includes calls for a referendum on leaving the European Union, halting asylum-seekers, and de-Islamizing the country. Despite his harsh rhetoric, Wilders promises to work within the law and constitution. Mainstream parties are reluctant to join forces with him, but his victory strengthens his hand in negotiations.

Dutch election: What happens next? November 22, 2023 at 12:01AM

The Netherlands' political system requires coalition governments due to the fragmented nature of the parliament. After the election, negotiations begin to form a coalition that can secure at least 76 seats in the 150-seat parliament. This process involves appointing scouts, informateurs, and formateurs to explore possibilities and build a potential cabinet. The formation of a government can take a long time, with the previous government taking 271 days to form.

Taiwan reports Chinese fighters, bombers nearby as election campaign heats up November 21, 2023 at 11:04PM

Taiwan reported Chinese military activity near the island as its election campaign intensified. Eleven aircraft crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, marking continued Chinese pressure on Taiwan's sovereignty claims. Taiwan's defense ministry detected J-10 and J-16 fighters, H-6 bombers, and early warning aircraft conducting overseas missions. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party registered its presidential ticket, while the opposition party, Kuomintang, supports closer ties with Beijing. China's defense ministry did not comment on the situation.

Islamabad High Court reserves judgement on jail trial of Pakistan's former PM Imran Khan November 20, 2023 at 11:50PM

The Islamabad High Court has reserved judgment on an intra-court appeal by former Pakistani premier Imran Khan against his jail trial in the cipher case. Khan has been kept in Adiala Jail since September 26 and is accused of violating secret laws while handling a communication from Pakistan's embassy in Washington. The trial has already begun with witness statements, but the court had stayed the trial pending the outcome of the appeal. The judgment is expected to be announced on Tuesday.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang to attend virtual G20 leaders' summit convened by India November 20, 2023 at 11:26PM

Chinese Premier Li Qiang will attend the virtual G20 Leaders' Summit at India's invitation. The summit will focus on key outcomes from the G20 conclave in September, as well as the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Hamas conflict. It will also aim to implement decisions made at the previous G20 summit in New Delhi. Leaders from all G20 members, along with guest countries and international organizations, have been invited to attend. India currently holds the G20 presidency until November 2023.

UK PM Rishi Sunak urges world to use AI and science to end malnutrition November 20, 2023 at 03:14AM

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a new science initiative to develop flood-tolerant rice, disease-resistant wheat, and other climate change resilient crops. He emphasized the need for a "fundamental shift" in addressing the global food security crisis exacerbated by climate change. Sunak urged leaders to utilize artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology to combat malnutrition worldwide. The UK will establish a "virtual science hub" linking international researchers working on resilient crops.

Over 4 lakh Afghans return home from Pak following crackdown November 20, 2023 at 02:36AM

Over 400,000 Afghans have returned to Afghanistan as part of Pakistan's crackdown on illegal foreigners. The majority of these individuals used the border crossings of Torkham and Spin Boldak to return home. While 1.7 million Afghans were living in Pakistan, only those without proper documents were targeted in the crackdown. The numbers of Afghans returning to their country have increased following the Taliban's takeover in 2021. Pakistan has also introduced new visa requirements for residents in the border town of Chaman, leading to protests and disruptions.

Foreigners, aid workers moved to safety from Myanmar fighting November 20, 2023 at 12:36AM

Foreigners, including UN agency staff, are being evacuated from Myanmar as an insurgency against military rule intensifies. Ethnic minority insurgents allied with a pro-democracy civilian government launched an offensive last month, trapping hundreds of foreigners in conflict areas. China is assisting in the evacuation of its nationals and other foreigners. The civilian government-in-exile said that anti-junta forces in Kayah State had temporarily paused their offensive to allow aid workers to leave.

Rohingya refugees not welcome in Indonesia November 19, 2023 at 11:12PM

A wooden boat carrying Rohingya refugees was denied entry into western Indonesia by local communities, despite pleas from the desperate men onboard. Over 800 Rohingya refugees have arrived in Indonesia's Aceh province in the past week. While sympathies exist among Acehnese locals, concerns over resources, conflicts, and smuggling networks have caused tensions. The refugees who were eventually allowed to land still face an uncertain future in Aceh, as locals may force them back to sea. Indonesia, not being a signatory of the UN Refugee Convention, is not compelled to accept Rohingya refugees.

Pakistani Judge removed from post after admonishing defence secretary for not complying with court order November 18, 2023 at 11:15PM

A Pakistani district judge has been removed from his post for admonishing the country's defence secretary for failing to comply with a court order. Judge Waris Ali, serving in Rawalpindi, was removed and declared an officer on special duty (OSD). The judge had ordered the defence secretary to submit a report on the military's businesses and their beneficiaries, but the defence secretary did not comply. The move highlights the powerful position of the Pakistani military establishment in the country.

Gaza communications blackout ends, gives rise to hope for the resumption of critical aid deliveries November 17, 2023 at 11:09PM

Internet and phone service has been partially restored in the Gaza Strip, ending a telecommunications blackout that caused the United Nations to suspend aid deliveries. Meanwhile, an Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in Khan Younis, killing at least 26 Palestinians. The Israeli military has been targeting Hamas in its offensive, but civilians have also been killed. The war has left Gaza's 2.3 million people critically short of food and water. Israel has agreed to allow some fuel into Gaza for humanitarian purposes, but the amount falls far short of what is needed.

Amnesty International calls on Pakistan to stop deportation of Afghan refugees November 16, 2023 at 11:03PM

Amnesty International has urged Pakistan to stop deporting and detaining Afghan refugees, stating that it poses a significant threat to the human rights of Afghan women and girls. The organization emphasized that Pakistan must respect the rights of Afghan refugees and called on them to halt the deportation process. Afghan refugees who have been deported are struggling with dire conditions, with concerns raised as the weather gets colder in many parts of Afghanistan.

Russia detains two employees from Carlsberg's Russian breweries November 16, 2023 at 01:09AM

Russian authorities on Wednesday detained two employees from Carlsberg's Russian brewery, Baltika Breweries, over allegations of fraud, and made similar claims against several others, Danish brewer Carlsberg told on Thursday. The company said in a statement the allegations were "fake". Moscow in July took control of Carlsberg's stake in Baltika through a presidential decree, saying it would put the foreign-owned stake under "temporary management."

Kenya's parliament approves Haiti police deployment November 16, 2023 at 12:34AM

Kenya's parliament has approved the deployment of its police to lead a UN-backed mission in Haiti to address the ongoing gang violence and restore peace and security. The UN Security Council had previously given the green light for Kenya to lead the mission. However, Kenya's involvement has faced criticism at home, and the government is currently facing legal challenges to its plans. Despite this, the government remains committed to providing up to 1,000 personnel for the mission. Haiti has been plagued by armed gangs, violence, and a struggling economy and healthcare system.

Israel signals wider ops in south Gaza as search of hosp yet to reveal Hamas base November 15, 2023 at 11:17PM

Broadening the offensive to the south — where Israel already carries out daily air raids — threatens to worsen an already severe humanitarian crisis in the besieged territory. Over 1.5 million people have been internally displaced in Gaza, with most having fled to the south, where food, water and electricity are increasingly scarce. The war, now in its sixth week, was triggered by a wide-ranging Hamas attack into southern Israel on October 7 in which the militants killed over 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and captured some 240 men, women and children.

China and the US pledge to step up climate efforts ahead of Biden-Xi summit and UN meeting November 15, 2023 at 12:11AM

China and the US have made a joint commitment to address climate change by reducing emissions of methane and other greenhouse gases, alongside carbon dioxide. The announcement was made ahead of a summit between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping, aimed at improving US-China relations. The cooperation between the two largest emitters of greenhouse gases is crucial for the success of upcoming UN climate talks. The countries also agreed to restart talks on energy policies and enhance climate action.

Vietnam arrests prominent parliamentary official as top UN rights official visits November 14, 2023 at 11:54PM

A prominent parliamentary official in Vietnam, Luu Binh Nhuong, has been arrested on suspicion of links to an extortion racket. Nhuong, a former member of Vietnam's National Assembly, was known for occasionally expressing critical opinions about government officials and security forces. The arrest coincided with the visit of the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to development, who warned about the selective use of the law to target human rights defenders and climate activists in Vietnam.

Philippines counter insurgency force 'operating with impunity', says UN expert November 14, 2023 at 11:30PM

A United Nations expert has called on the Philippines to disband its anti-communist task force, citing concerns over human rights abuses. UN Special Rapporteur Ian Fry urged for an independent investigation into the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), which has been accused of "red-tagging" and arbitrary arrests. The task force, chaired by President Rodrigo Duterte, denies these allegations. Fry stated that the task force has exceeded its original mandate and should be replaced with a more effective approach to counterterrorism.

Iran confirms death sentence over officer's killing in 2022 protests November 13, 2023 at 11:03PM

The Supreme Court of Iran announced a death sentence against a man who was convicted of killing a revolutionary guards officer during the last year's protest which was sparked after the death of Mahsa Amini. A Tehran court handed down the death sentence in June, saying it was "in accordance with the retribution law" in force in Iran.

Myanmar junta under attack on new front as opposition intensifies November 12, 2023 at 11:37PM

Ethnic minority insurgents launched attacks on security posts in northwest Myanmar on Monday, residents and the rebels said, as fighting erupted on a new front against a military government facing its biggest test since a 2021 coup. The Arakan Army (AA), a group formed to fight for greater autonomy in Rakhine State, seized posts in the Rathedaung and Minbya areas, about 200 km (124 miles) apart and fighting was raging elsewhere in the state, AA spokesman Khine Thu Kha said.

Israel sharpens warning to Lebanon as cross-border hostilities spike November 12, 2023 at 11:31PM

Israel and Hezbollah engaged in hostilities on the Lebanese front, with Hezbollah launching a missile attack and Israel retaliating with airstrikes. Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has been carrying out attacks in solidarity with Palestinians, using rockets and kamikaze drones. The Israeli military holds Hezbollah and the Lebanese government responsible for the hostilities. Both Israeli and Lebanese civilians have been affected, leading to evacuations.

UN flags at half-mast for staff killed in Gaza November 12, 2023 at 11:27PM

United Nations staff around the world observed a minute's silence in memory of colleagues killed in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict. The UN flag was flown at half-mast at offices in Bangkok, Tokyo, Beijing, Geneva, Kathmandu, and Kabul. The UN agency for supporting Palestinians reported that over 100 of its employees had died in the Gaza Strip since the start of the war. Israeli officials reported that around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed in Hamas attacks, while the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reported over 11,000 deaths in retaliatory strikes by Israel.

Nawaz keen to dilute impression of being Pak army's 'ladla' ahead of Feb 8 polls: report November 12, 2023 at 12:42AM

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has instructed his party's manifesto committee to address the issue of being labeled the "blue-eyed" party of the military establishment. Sharif is upset over the impression created by his political opponents that he is favored by the military and set to return to power. He wants to counter this image ahead of the general elections in February 2024. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has formed 30 sub-committees.

Latvia's president says West must arm Ukraine to keep Russia from future global adventures November 11, 2023 at 11:06PM

Latvia's president, Edgars Rinkēvičs, warns that Russia is planning for a long war in Ukraine and urges countries to continue supplying arms to Kyiv. He emphasizes that stopping Russia in Ukraine is crucial to preventing future threats to other countries. Rinkēvičs also highlights Russia's disruptive activities in Africa and its meetings with Hamas officials. He calls for support for both Ukraine and Israel against attacks on "our values" and stresses the need for humanitarian pauses in the Gaza conflict.

Russia renews missile attacks on Kyiv, pounds Ukraine's east and south November 10, 2023 at 11:18PM

Russia launched a missile attack on Ukraine's capital Kyiv and the nearby region for the first time in weeks on Saturday and pounded the east and south of the country with drones, Ukrainian officials said. Serhiy Popko, head of the Kyiv city military administration, said a Russian ballistic missile was launched toward the capital at about 08.00am(0600 GMT). "After a long pause of 52 days, the enemy has resumed missile attacks on Kyiv," Popko said on the Telegram messaging app. "The missile failed to reach Kyiv, air defenders shot it down as it was approaching the capital."

EU has 'Plan B' if Hungary vetoes 50 billion euro aid for Ukraine November 10, 2023 at 12:43AM

The European Union is confident that it can bypass any potential Hungarian veto and provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros in aid. The aid package aims to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. If Hungary were to veto the proposal, the EU could ask other member states to establish their own aid packages for Ukraine, totaling the same amount. Despite concerns about Hungary's obstruction, EU officials are determined to find a solution to provide support to Ukraine.

South Korea launches campaign against bedbugs November 09, 2023 at 11:39PM

Thousands fall ill in eastern Pakistan due to heavy smog, forcing closure of schools, markets, parks November 09, 2023 at 12:11AM

Toxic gray smog has sickened tens of thousands of people in Pakistan's cultural capital of Lahore, forcing authorities to shut schools, markets and parks for four days, officials said Thursday. The decision came after the country's second-largest city was repeatedly ranked the world's most polluted city. Doctors advised people to wear face masks and stay at home. Residents said many people were coughing and having breathing problems. Experts say the burning of crop residue at the start of the winter wheat-planting season is a key cause of the pollution.

Saudi says climate policy should not 'crush' less powerful November 08, 2023 at 11:57PM

Saudi Arabia's energy minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, has stated that policies to address climate change should not harm countries struggling with energy poverty. He emphasized the need to assist the 800 million people worldwide who lack reliable access to electricity. While Saudi Arabia aims for net zero emissions by 2060, the country argues that investments in hydrocarbons are necessary for energy stability. Prince Abdulaziz criticized the poor results of financial support provided to countries affected by climate change and suggested a bilateral approach to climate finance.

Pakistan seeks USD 600 million in fresh loans from two Chinese banks to bridge financing gap: Reports November 08, 2023 at 11:27PM

Pakistan has requested fresh loans totaling $600 million from two Chinese banks, as it negotiates with the IMF for the release of the second tranche of a $3 billion bailout package. The government is in advanced negotiations with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and the Bank of China, with each bank being approached for $300 million in financing. These loans are expected to be received by next month. China has become Pakistan's last hope for emergency financing in recent years.

Worst floods in decades kill 29 in Somalia, hit towns across East Africa November 07, 2023 at 11:52PM

The worst flooding to hit Somalia in decades has killed 29 people and forced more than 300,000 to flee their homes, the National Disaster Management Agency said on Wednesday, following heavy rains that have inundated towns across East Africa. Authorities have scrambled to rescue thousands of stranded people from the floodwater, which comes on the heels of the region's worst drought in 40 years. At least 2,400 people have been cut off in Luuq town, where the Jubba River burst its banks, the United Nations has said.