In Baruth, Brandenburg, Red Bull's water extraction plans are facing scrutiny amid climate change concerns. While the mayor emphasizes job creation and sufficient water reserves, environmentalists worry about sustainability and potential contamination. A legal challenge seeks transparency regarding subsidies and water costs, highlighting the tension between economic development and environmental protection in a water-scarce region.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in Moscow on Wednesday for a key three-day visit including a grand Victory Day parade and a show of support for Vladimir Putin. - Guest of honour - Putin will address the "grandest" ever annual Victory Day parade in Moscow on Friday for the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Germany in World War II to rally support for his troops fighting in Ukraine.
Frenchman Serge Atlaoui, on Indonesia’s death row since 2007 for drug offences, will be repatriated to France on February 4 following a deal between both nations. Arrested in 2005, Atlaoui claims innocence, stating he was unknowingly installing machinery in a drug factory. Initially sentenced to life, his penalty was later upgraded to death. Activists praised the transfer, citing his prolonged imprisonment. Indonesia, known for its strict drug laws, holds over 530 death row inmates, including... Expand
The UAE's ministry of economy launched a three-month roadmap for "green intellectual property (IP)" to drive innovation, sustainability, and a circular economy. The initiative aims to boost eco-friendly patents, strengthen legal protections, and integrate IP into sustainable projects. With a goal of 8 per cent of patents in green technology, it supports the UAE’s vision and reinforces its top regional ranking in the global innovation index 2024.
A new book reveals that President Biden cautioned Kamala Harris against diverging from him on policy during her 2024 campaign, potentially limiting her independence. Campaign advisor conflicts and Harris’ alignment with Biden’s presidency are highlighted as challenges in her bid to redefine her image.
Starting January 1, Milan's new law bans smoking in all public spaces, including streets, to combat air pollution and passive smoking. Non-smoker Stellina Lombardo supports the tougher measures, while some residents find it excessive. The ban, part of progressive restrictions since 2021, aims to enhance air quality and public health. E-cigarettes are exempt from this rule.
The Taliban has freed American citizen Faye Hall, who was detained earlier this year along with two British nationals and their Afghan interpreter. Hall thanked former President Trump for her release and highlighted the struggles of Afghan women imprisoned by the Taliban. The Reynolds couple remains in Taliban custody.
King Charles and the Royal Family celebrate Christmas at Sandringham estate, continuing traditions dating back to Queen Victoria. Events include a 20-foot Norfolk spruce tree, small humorous gifts, an 11 a.m. church service, and traditional meals. Despite some tensions in history, such as Princess Diana's struggles, the estate remains a cherished venue for festive gatherings.
Donald Trump received a special Presidential Diet Coke bottle from Coca-Cola's CEO, continuing the company's tradition of celebrating US presidential inaugurations. Social media users reacted to this gesture of Coca-Cola as to how companies distanced themselves from Trump and now they are flocking to him. “Well, here’s another reason to drink water… or beer," Republicans Against Trump wrote.
Syrians were set to commemorate the 14th anniversary of their uprising on Saturday in public demonstrations in Damascus and other cities for the first time since president Bashar al-Assad was toppled. This year's commemoration marks the first since Assad was toppled on December 8 by Islamist-led rebels.
Israel will send a delegation to Qatar to discuss technical aspects of the second phase of a ceasefire with Hamas, following prime minister Netanyahu's talks in Washington. The ceasefire, which began on January 19, involves hostage releases in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. So far, 18 hostages have been freed, with further negotiations set to determine the fate of the remaining captives. Netanyahu will convene Israel’s security cabinet to finalize the country's stance on the next phase.