Bulgaria and Romania will gain full access to Europe's Schengen free-travel zone starting January 1, 2024. EU ministers lifted land border controls after previous concerns about migrant prevention were addressed. This decision promises economic benefits, faster travel, and reduced border wait times for both countries and the wider Schengen area.
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The incident occurred during the 2022–23 academic year at a state school, as reported by The Telegraph. No further details about the case were made public. ​In the same academic year, 94 pupils at state primary schools across England were either suspended or permanently excluded due to behaviour deemed transphobic or homophobic.
Taiwan has bolstered its defense with the arrival of 38 American M1A2T Abrams tanks, the first such delivery in over two decades. This shipment is part of a larger order, enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities amid escalating tensions with China.
US President-elect Donald Trump plans a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to seek resolution to the Ukraine conflict, which has persisted for nearly 34 months. Trump has promised a swift resolution, though his aides suggest potential concessions involving Ukrainian territory. Russia welcomes dialogue and awaits formal requests as Trump assumes office.
US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Troy Meink as the next Secretary of the Air Force. Meink, with almost 40 years of experience in military and national security roles, will work alongside Defense Secretary Nominee Pete Hegseth to ensure the effectiveness of the nation's Air Force. Meink previously managed significant satellite intelligence and space capabilities at the National Reconnaissance Office.
Canada has imposed 25% tariffs on 1,256 US goods, mainly targeting items from Republican states. This includes food, agriculture products, textiles, and furniture. Ontario banned US firms from government contracts, affecting Elon Musk's Starlink. British Columbia stopped purchasing alcohol from Republican states. The countermeasures will stay until the US removes its tariffs against Canada.
Amid speculations that Vivek had a fall-out with Elon Musk and Donald Trump, Ramaswamy praised the Trump administration's move against the DEI quota system and said it ends an era of racial victimhood narratives in America. "The abolition of DEI quota system marks the end of an era of racial victimhood narratives in America. Or at least it should. Thanks to President Trump for repealing EO 11246 today," Ramaswamy wrote.
The United States and Britain on Friday announced sanctions against Russia's energy sector, including oil giant Gazprom Neft, just days before outgoing President Joe Biden leaves office. The US State Department announced it was also taking action against Russia's energy sector, "sanctioning nearly 80 entities and individuals, including those engaged in the active production and export of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia."
US President Trump’s administration is pressuring Ukraine to sign an economic deal transferring substantial natural resources and profits in exchange for support. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy rejected the proposal, demanding military aid. The contentious negotiations are causing concern among Ukrainian officials and European allies, with potential dire consequences if Trump’s terms are refused.
US President Trump reiterated his proposal for the US to take control of Gaza, with international development transforming it into a major development project. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu supports the plan, which has been criticized by rights groups as a violation of international law.
Meghan Markle's new Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, has received mixed reactions from fans. While some label it as 'entitled' and criticize the expensive lifestyle it showcases, others express excitement. The series features cooking, gardening, and crafting tips, with appearances from celebrity friends like Mindy Kaling and Prince Harry.