Tragically, stampedes at two Nigerian Christmas charity events claimed 32 lives, including children. Crowd surges occurred as people desperately sought food amidst a severe cost-of-living crisis. Twenty-two died in Anambra state, while ten perished in Abuja. Police are investigating these incidents, highlighting the need for improved safety measures at such events.
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Australia and New Zealand are monitoring Chinese naval ships in the Tasman Sea, raising concerns due to their unusually southern location. The Chinese task group's mission remains undisclosed, prompting close surveillance. The involvement of a powerful Renhai-class cruiser signals China's naval intentions. Both nations emphasize joint efforts to track and assess the situation.
Hamas released three more Israeli hostages, Eli Sharabi, Ohad Ben Ami, and Or Levy, to the Red Cross as part of their ongoing ceasefire agreement with Israel. This marks the fifth exchange since the ceasefire began, bringing the total number of hostages released to 21.
In a notable shift, the US under Trump aligned with Russia at the UN, refusing to condemn the Ukraine invasion. This has caused concerns among European allies, alarmed by potential US-Russia negotiations excluding them and Ukraine. Trump's transactional approach with Putin, focusing on economic deals, hints at redefined transatlantic relations and a possible realignment in global geopolitics.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy thanks US President Biden for unwavering support, days before Biden leaves office. Discussions include new sanctions on Russia’s energy sector and bolstering Ukraine's air defenses. Zelenskyy values US-provided military aid in defending against ongoing Russian aggression and stresses the importance of preserving Ukraine’s independence.
Recent US policy decisions under President Trump are raising concerns about the future of American tourism, with projections indicating a 5.1% drop in foreign arrivals and significant revenue losses by 2025. Stricter immigration policies, tariffs, and rising global tensions are expected to deter international visitors and organizations from hosting events in the US, according to experts.
Representatives from Elon Musk's department are working with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to identify and address inefficiencies and potential fraud. They have gained access to critical CMS systems to scrutinize payment and contracting, in line with President Trump's initiative to reduce government waste.
Jennifer Crumbley, sentenced to 10-15 years for involuntary manslaughter related to her son's high school shooting, is seeking bond while appealing her conviction. She argues she poses no threat and has committed no further crimes. Her attorney claims keeping her imprisoned is unjust.
Former King Gyanendra Shah of Nepal received an enthusiastic welcome from supporters in Kathmandu, urging for the reinstatement of the monarchy amid political instability and economic dissatisfaction. Despite increased pro-monarchy sentiments, the likelihood of a return to monarchical rule remains uncertain.
A UN rights expert, Mary Lawlor, condemned Algeria's harassment and criminalization of human rights defenders, including independent journalist Merzoug Touati. Despite visiting Algeria in late 2023, Lawlor noted the situation hadn't improved. She highlighted cases of arbitrary arrests, judicial harassment, and torture, especially Touati’s ongoing legal struggles. Lawlor also expressed concern over arrests of human rights lawyers and activists and emphasized that all individuals must be treated... Expand
US President Trump defended national security advisor Michael Waltz after a Signal group chat leak exposed planned military strikes on Houthi rebels. A staffer accidentally added journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to the chat, raising security concerns. Trump dismissed calls for an apology and ordered Waltz to investigate Signal's vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for secure communication tools.