Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass faces backlash after demanding an additional $49 million in budget cuts from the Fire Department, leading to reduced emergency response capability amid raging wildfires. The fires have destroyed thousands of homes and continue to burn uncontrollably, with firefighters struggling to contain the flames.
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Four individuals will face trial in Paris next year for online harassment of French First Lady Brigitte Macron. The charges relate to disinformation and malicious comments concerning her gender, sexuality, and age gap with President Emmanuel Macron. This follows a complaint filed by the First Lady in August, and the accused face potential prison sentences if convicted.
US President Donald Trump has appointed Indian-American Kush Desai as deputy press secretary, enhancing his communications team ahead of the 2024 election. Desai, a seasoned political communicator, will play a crucial role in messaging and strategy under the guidance of Taylor Budowich.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins has been chosen as the designated survivor for President Trump's 2025 joint address to Congress. Collins, a former congressman, ensures government continuity by staying at a secure location while top officials gather at the Capitol.
US President-elect Trump praised an 'epic' ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, set days before his second term begins, aimed at halting the deadliest clashes in Gaza. The agreement includes phased release of hostages, Palestinian prisoners, and humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza, while ensuring a six-week initial ceasefire.
The US is expelling South Africa's ambassador, citing him as a 'race-baiting politician' who opposes President Trump. The diplomatic relations have deteriorated since Trump's disapproval of South Africa's policy decisions, including its stance against Israel. The ambassador must leave the US by March 21.
Justin Trudeau, son of former PM Pierre Trudeau, led Canada through major crises like the pandemic and NAFTA renegotiation. An avowed feminist, Trudeau's tenure saw controversial policies on immigration, cannabis legalization, and carbon tax. Despite achieving gender parity in his cabinets, dwindling popularity over rising costs and immigration issues led to his resignation after nine years.
China's biggest political event of the year ended with questions about reviving economic growth in 2025. Focused on boosting investment and consumer spending, the government announced a 5% growth target for 2024, signaling potential future stimulus amid ongoing trade tensions with the U.S.
Los Angeles firefighters are using Phos-Chek, a bright pink fire retardant, to combat wildfires threatening lives and property. Developed by Perimeter Solutions, Phos-Chek helps slow the spread of flames. The retardant contains water, ammonium phosphate fertiliser, and a thickening agent creating a fire-resistant barrier. Winds over 70 mph could impede efforts, emphasizing the unpredictability of the situation.
Nigerian lawmakers approved an additional $200 million for the health sector as part of the 2025 budget to offset the impact of US aid cuts. The bill aims to support disease control efforts, affected by the suspension of USAID funds. The fund will supply vaccines and treatments for epidemic diseases, crucial for the country's health initiatives.
A massive fire erupted at a refinery in California, causing a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents due to air quality concerns. The blaze, triggered by a hydrocarbon leak, resulted in significant sulfur dioxide emissions, posing health risks. Authorities continue to monitor air quality as investigations into the fire's cause proceed.