At least 55 civilians were killed in northeastern Congo by CODECO militia fighters in an attack on villages and a displaced persons camp in Ituri province. The loosely affiliated Lendu farming militia has killed nearly 1,800 people in four years. The UN warns some attacks may be war crimes. Despite intervention by peacekeepers and government troops, the attackers overwhelmed defenses. The death toll may rise as bodies are recovered.
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Alcohol significantly increases the risk of various cancers, including breast and colon cancer, and should carry warning labels similar to cigarettes, according to US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. Recent studies challenge the benefits of moderate drinking and link even low levels of alcohol consumption to health risks.
Kim Yo Jong, Kim Jong Un's sister, has threatened high-profile provocations in response to the arrival of a US aircraft carrier in South Korea. She criticized US military activities, indicating that North Korea may ramp up weapons testing. South Korea's Defence Ministry vows to counter any provocations.
Californian wildfires have sparked a range of conspiracy theories, including allegations against Sean "Diddy" Combs, the spreading of doctored footage of the iconic Hollywood sign on fire, misleading governmental zoning changes, and accusations of arson. Claims also link diversity policies with weakened fire services, though experts argue environmental and infrastructural issues are the primary causes.
A group of Venezuelan gang members was sent to Guantanamo Bay as part of a new immigration crackdown by President Trump. The notorious prison, known for past human rights abuses, will now hold up to 30,000 migrant criminals categorized as the 'worst criminal aliens.' This plan has sparked controversy and raised human rights concerns.
Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte warned that a Russian victory in Ukraine would undermine Nato's credibility, costing trillions to restore. Speaking at Davos, Rutte emphasized the need to increase western support for Ukraine, rejecting the notion of scaling back aid. He cautioned against a rushed peace deal with Russia, warning it could embolden Putin and his allies. Polish foreign minister Radek Sikorski echoed concerns, urging Putin be held accountable as a war criminal.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is unwilling to sign the latest US mineral deal, citing absent security guarantees amidst Russia's invasion. The US proposal requires Ukraine to surrender 50% of its natural resource revenues, aimed at compensating for American aid. The deal could redirect funds from Ukraine's military, impacting post-war reconstruction plans. Discussion is ongoing.
German lawmakers approved a massive defence and infrastructure spending plan proposed by incoming chancellor Friedrich Merz, allocating up to a trillion euros over the next decade. This plan aims to strengthen Europe's security amid concerns over the US stance on the Ukraine war. The proposal received strong support, paving the way for a new European defence community.
LA mayor Karen Bass faced criticism for attending a cocktail party in Ghana during the Palisades fire. Despite warnings about an impending windstorm, she was part of a White House delegation. In earlier statements, Bass promised not to travel internationally if elected, but broke this promise five times as she went to France three times for the Olympics in 2024.
KFC is moving its corporate headquarters from Louisville, Kentucky, to Plano, Texas, affecting around 190 employees. The decision aligns with Yum! Brands' restructuring strategy and Texas's favorable tax policies. Despite the move, Yum! Brands will maintain a presence in Louisville, including the KFC Foundation and a flagship restaurant.
After skipping Jimmy Carter's funeral, Michelle Obama will also miss Donald Trump's inauguration. This prolonged absence of Michelle Obama triggered speculation over her rocky relationship with Barack Obama. However, the decision to skip both these events could have been taken just to avoid a face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump. A body language expert said they displayed no signs of togetherness at their December outing.