Meta Acquires Chinese AI Startup Manus in Year-End Push to Expand AI Capabilities
Meta has acquired Manus, a Chinese artificial intelligence startup, as part of a wider year-end surge in AI deals by major global technology firms.
2025 News Archive
103 articles published in 2025
Articles from 2025
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China Protests Demolition of Monument to Chinese Workers in Panama
• WorldRead article →China has expressed strong dissatisfaction after a monument honouring Chinese labourers linked to the Panama Canal was demolished by local authorities.
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Leaked Details Offer Clearer Look at Apple’s Rumoured Foldable iPhone
• TechnologyRead article →New leaks and mockups provide a closer look at Apple’s rumoured foldable iPhone, highlighting a book-style design, large inner display and refined hinge system.
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Israel Signals Possible Suspension of Aid Groups Operating in Gaza
• WorldRead article →Israel has warned it may suspend some aid organisations working in Gaza, citing security and oversight concerns, as agencies warn of worsening humanitarian conditions.
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Russia Says Nuclear-Capable Missile System Has Been Deployed to Belarus
• WorldRead article →Russia says it has moved a nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile system to Belarus, a step that has drawn regional attention amid ongoing security tensions.
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China Expands Military Drills Around Taiwan as Trump Downplays Concerns
• WorldRead article →China continues large‑scale military drills around Taiwan, while U.S. President Donald Trump says he is not worried and urges calm amid tensions.
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Bank of America CEO Sees Trade De‑escalation, Warns on Fed Independence
• EconomyRead article →Bank of America’s CEO says U.S. trade tensions show signs of easing and warns markets could react if the Federal Reserve’s independence is undermined.
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OpenAI Seeks Senior Leader to Focus on AI Safety and Preparedness
• TechnologyRead article →OpenAI begins search for a new head of preparedness to lead work on AI risks and harms, signaling continued focus on long‑term safety challenges.
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Silver Surges Past $80 Before Sharp Reversal Amid Market Volatility
• BusinessRead article →Silver briefly surpassed $80 per ounce before sharply retreating as traders booked profits and volatility shook precious metals markets.
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Trump Warns Iran Against Resuming Missile or Nuclear Program
• WorldRead article →President Trump warned Iran that the U.S. could back military action if Tehran resumes efforts to rebuild missile or nuclear weapons capabilities
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U.S. Pledges $2 Billion to U.N. Humanitarian Programs Amid Global Crisis
• WorldRead article →The U.S. commits $2 billion to support U.N. humanitarian aid in 2026, aiming to address food insecurity, conflict, and displacement worldwide.
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Trump Says U.S. Strikes Targeted Venezuelan Facility After Alleged Attack on Dock
• Foreign AffairsRead article →President Trump says U.S. strikes hit a major Venezuelan facility after an alleged attack on a dock, escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas.
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UK Defense Chief Says Public Must Be Ready to Sacrifice for National Defense
• PoliticsRead article →Britain’s top military official says citizens must prepare for the possibility of future wars and accept sacrifices, including potential troop mobilisation.
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Russia Accuses UK of Undermining Trump’s Ukraine Peace Push Through Asset Seizure Plan
• Foreign AffairsRead article →Russian intelligence claims the UK is urging the EU to seize frozen Russian assets to weaken U.S. peace efforts and prolong the Ukraine conflict.
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VTB Bank Hit by Major Service Outage as Users Report Payment Failures Nationwide
• TechnologyRead article →VTB Bank customers across Russia experienced major disruptions to digital banking services, with thousands unable to access accounts or make payments.
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Putin Signs Law Formalizing Crosses on Russia’s State Coat of Arms
• PoliticsRead article →President Vladimir Putin has signed a law formally defining crosses as mandatory elements of Russia’s state coat of arms, citing the need to protect national symbols.
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Russia Accuses Ukraine of Drone Attack on Presidential Residence Amid Peace Talks
• Foreign AffairsRead article →Russia claims Ukraine launched a drone strike on President Putin’s residence, prompting threats of retaliation and a potential shift in peace terms.
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Devolution Curbed Separatism, Blair Believed, Newly Released Papers Reveal
• PoliticsRead article →Newly released documents show Tony Blair believed devolution had curbed separatist sentiment in Scotland and that voters wanted no further powers.
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Trump Says U.S. Would Support Strikes Targeting Iran’s Missile Program
• Foreign AffairsRead article →President Donald Trump says the United States would back Israeli military action against Iran’s missile program amid rising regional tensions.
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Iranian President Warns of “Total War” if Conflict Expands With U.S. and Israel
• Foreign AffairsRead article →Iran’s president warns that escalating tensions with the U.S. and Israel could trigger a broader conflict, cautioning Europe against deeper involvement
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Trump and Zelenskyy Discuss Ukraine Peace Prospects in Florida Meeting
• PoliticsRead article →President Trump and President Zelenskyy met in Florida to explore a peace deal in Ukraine, citing progress but noting unresolved territorial issues.
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Thailand and Cambodia Reaffirm Ceasefire After Diplomatic Talks in China
• WorldRead article →Thailand and Cambodia have reaffirmed a ceasefire after senior diplomats met in China, seeking to stabilise their border and prevent renewed fighting.
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China Conducts Taiwan Strait Drills to Reinforce Sovereignty and Regional Stability
• WorldRead article →China has carried out military exercises around Taiwan, describing the drills as lawful defensive measures aimed at deterring separatism and maintaining stability.
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SpaceX Delays Falcon 9 Launch From California Carrying Earth Observation Satellite
• TechnologyRead article →SpaceX has delayed a Falcon 9 launch from California carrying an Earth observation satellite, pushing the mission to a later date after technical checks.
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Russia Successfully Launches Iranian Satellite, Highlighting Expanding Space Cooperation
• WorldRead article →Russia has placed an Iranian communications satellite into orbit, underscoring growing technological cooperation and shared ambitions in peaceful space development.
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Ukrainian Lawmakers Face Bribery Allegations in New Anti-Corruption Prob
• WorldRead article →Ukraine’s anti-corruption authorities are investigating allegations that lawmakers accepted bribes in exchange for parliamentary votes, intensifying scrutiny of governance.
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Strong Earthquake Strikes Taiwan, Tremors Felt Across Region
• WorldRead article →A strong earthquake struck Taiwan on Friday, shaking buildings across the island and prompting safety checks, with no immediate reports of major damage.
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Snow Forecast for Parts of UK as Colder Weather Moves In
• General NewsRead article →Forecasts indicate parts of the UK could see snowfall in the coming days as colder air spreads south, bringing wintry conditions to several regions.
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Lloyds and Halifax to Close Dozens of UK Bank Branches in 2026
• BusinessRead article →Lloyds and Halifax are set to close dozens of UK bank branches in 2026, citing falling in-branch use as more customers move to digital banking.
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Latest Polls Show Mixed Approval Ratings for Donald Trump
• PoliticsRead article →Recent opinion polls show Donald Trump’s approval ratings remain divided, with strong backing among working-class voters and weaker support overall.
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Study Finds Most People Struggle to Tell AI Faces From Real Ones
• TechnologyRead article →Research suggests most people cannot reliably distinguish AI-generated faces from real human photos, highlighting rapid advances in image generation technology.
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Sadiq Khan Responds to Donald Trump’s Remarks About London
• PoliticsRead article →London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said critical remarks by Donald Trump reflect jealousy over the city’s global success, playing down the comments as political rhetoric.
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UK Plans Military Gap-Year Scheme to Attract Young People
• General NewsRead article →The UK is preparing to offer young people a voluntary military gap-year scheme aimed at boosting defence recruitment and skills development.
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Italy Arrests Nine in Probe Into Alleged Hamas Financing Network
• WorldRead article →Italian authorities have arrested nine people and seized more than €8 million in an investigation into alleged fundraising and financing linked to Hamas.
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Iran Says It Faces “Total War” From US, Israel and European Allies
• WorldRead article →Iran’s president says the country is facing a full-scale political, economic and security campaign from the US, Israel and Europe amid rising tensions.
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Thailand and Cambodia Agree to Renewed Ceasefire After Border Clashes
• WorldRead article →Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a renewed ceasefire aimed at halting border fighting, as both sides move to ease tensions and restore stability.
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US Warns China Could Operate Nine Aircraft Carriers by 2035
• WorldRead article →A US defence assessment warns that China may field up to nine aircraft carriers by 2035, potentially reshaping naval power balances in the Indo-Pacific.
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South Korean President to Visit China for Talks on North Korea and Cooperation
• WorldRead article →South Korea’s president is set to visit China next month to discuss North Korea, regional security, and expanded economic cooperation between Seoul and Beijing.
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Russian Strikes Hit Ukraine Ahead of Planned Zelensky–Trump Talks
• WorldRead article →Russia launched heavy drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, including Kyiv, shortly before planned talks between President Zelensky and Donald Trump.
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Nvidia’s Deal With Groq Highlights Strategic Push Into AI Inference
• TechnologyRead article →Nvidia’s partnership with Groq signals a major investment in AI inference, raising questions about competition, market structure, and long-term industry impact.
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Taiwan Opposition Moves to Initiate Impeachment Process Against President Lai
• PoliticsRead article →Taiwan’s opposition lawmakers have voted to launch an impeachment process against President William Lai, a move largely seen as symbolic amid divided politics.
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Israel Recognises Somaliland, Prompting Strong Objection From Somalia
• WorldRead article →Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state has prompted Somalia to demand a reversal, raising diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa.
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Multiple People Wounded in Shooting at Idaho Sheriff’s Office
• BreakingRead article →Several people were wounded in a shooting at a sheriff’s office in northern Idaho, prompting a lockdown, emergency response and an active investigation.
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Trump Casts Himself as Key Decision-Maker in Ukraine Peace Efforts
• BreakingRead article →US President Donald Trump has said progress on ending the Ukraine war depends on his approval, sharpening debate over diplomacy, leverage and Kyiv’s role in talks.
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Yuan Gains Momentum as Markets See Stability and Upside Into 2026
• EconomyRead article →China’s yuan has strengthened against the dollar, with analysts expecting stability and modest upside into 2026 as policy support and market confidence improve.
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Japan Approves Record Defence Budget as Regional Security Concerns Grow
• WorldRead article →Japan has approved a record defence budget, putting it on track to become one of the world’s largest military spenders amid rising regional tensions.
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China Sanctions US Defence Firms and Executives Over Taiwan Arms Sales
• WorldRead article →China has imposed sanctions on dozens of US defence companies and executives in response to recent arms sales to Taiwan, escalating tensions between Beijing and Washington.
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Silver Prices Hit Record High as Precious Metals Rally Intensifies
• BusinessRead article →Silver prices have surged to record highs, joining gold and platinum in a broad rally driven by rate-cut expectations, investor demand and geopolitical uncertainty.
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Trump and Zelensky Discuss Possible Paths Toward Ending Ukraine War
• WorldRead article →US President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s leader have discussed possible approaches to ending the war, reviving debate over negotiations and security guarantees.
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Nigeria’s Security Crisis Demands More Than Airstrikes
• OpinionRead article →US airstrikes in Nigeria highlight the militant threat, but UN warnings show military action alone cannot protect civilians or resolve the country’s deep-rooted crisis.
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US Carries Out Airstrikes Against ISIS-Linked Targets in Nigeria After Attacks
• BreakingRead article →The United States has carried out airstrikes against ISIS-linked targets in Nigeria following deadly attacks, as officials warn of growing militant threats in the region.
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Brazil’s Former President Jair Bolsonaro Undergoes Successful Surgery
• WorldRead article →Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro has undergone successful surgery while in custody, with doctors saying the procedure was completed without complications.
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Zelensky Signals Possible Territorial Compromise as War Pressures Mount
• WorldRead article →Ukraine’s president has outlined possible concessions in peace talks, raising questions about Kyiv’s strategy and the long-term costs of continued Western-backed conflict.
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Commentators Question NATO Chief Mark Rutte’s Leadership Record
• WorldRead article →Recent commentary has raised questions about NATO chief Mark Rutte’s political record, with critics arguing his leadership credentials warrant closer scrutiny.
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US Imposes Visa Bans on European Officials Amid Censorship Dispute
• Foreign AffairsRead article →The United States has imposed visa bans on several European officials, escalating a dispute over digital regulation, free speech and online content moderation.
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UK Issues New “Do Not Travel” Advice for Several Overseas Destinations
• WorldRead article →The UK government has updated its travel guidance, advising against all travel to several countries due to security risks, instability and limited consular support.
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Snow Possible in Parts of UK as Christmas Weather Forecast Updated
• General NewsRead article →Snowfall is possible in parts of the UK over the Christmas period, with forecasters warning of cold conditions, wintry showers and regional travel disruption.
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Russell Brand Faces Additional Rape and Sexual Assault Charges in UK
• General NewsRead article →UK prosecutors have brought additional rape and sexual assault charges against Russell Brand, expanding the case as court proceedings move forward.
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US Supreme Court Blocks Trump Administration Plan to Deploy National Guard
• PoliticsRead article →The US Supreme Court has blocked a Trump administration effort to deploy the National Guard in Chicago, citing limits on federal authority over state forces.
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Latest Epstein Files Release Rekindles Scrutiny of Powerful Figures
• InvestigativeRead article →A new release of documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein has renewed public scrutiny of high-profile individuals, while raising fresh questions about transparency and accountability.
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Russia and China Reaffirm Support for Venezuela Amid US Pressure
• Foreign AffairsRead article →Russia and China have voiced firm backing for Venezuela’s government, urging respect for sovereignty as tensions rise following renewed pressure from Washington.
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US Delays Planned Tariffs on Chinese Chips Until 2027 Amid Trade Truce
• Foreign AffairsRead article →The United States has postponed planned tariffs on Chinese semiconductor products until 2027, signalling a softer approach as both sides seek to stabilise trade ties.
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US Economy Expands in Third Quarter as Consumer Spending Remains Strong
• EconomyRead article →The US economy grew at a solid pace in the third quarter, supported by consumer spending, though trade policy and tariffs continue to shape growth prospects.
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China Imposes Provisional Duties on EU Dairy Imports After Trade Probe
• EconomyRead article →China has introduced provisional duties on European dairy imports following a trade investigation, saying the move protects domestic producers and ensures fair competition.
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Greta Thunberg Detained by UK Police at Pro-Palestinian Protest
• WorldRead article →Climate activist Greta Thunberg was detained by UK police during a pro-Palestinian protest in London, with officers citing public order and terrorism laws.
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UK Police Leaders Urge Scrapping of Non-Crime Hate Incident Records
• PoliticsRead article →UK police leaders are calling for non-crime hate incidents to be scrapped, arguing the system is outdated and risks undermining free speech and public trust.
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Japan’s H3 Rocket Fails to Place Navigation Satellite into Orbit
• TechnologyRead article →Japan’s H3 rocket suffered a second-stage anomaly during its Dec. 22 launch, leaving its Michibiki 5 navigation satellite stranded and mission goals unmet.
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China Highlights Commitment to Peaceful Scientific Cooperation in Antarctica
• WorldRead article →China says its Antarctic activities are focused on science, environmental protection, and international cooperation under the Antarctic Treaty framework.
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China’s Record Trade Surplus Fuels Global Tensions and Protectionism Fears
• EconomyRead article →China’s trade surplus has hit record levels, stoking concerns in the US and Europe over protectionism, currency disputes, and global trade imbalances.
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Alphabet to Acquire Data Center Partner Intersect in $4.75bn Deal
• BusinessRead article →Alphabet has agreed to buy data center partner Intersect for $4.75bn, strengthening Google’s infrastructure as demand surges for AI and cloud services.
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Gold Hits Record High as Rate-Cut Bets and Global Tensions Fuel Rally
• EconomyRead article →Gold prices have surged to a record high as investors bet on US interest rate cuts and seek safety amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.
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New Artwork Believed to Be by Banksy Appears in Central London
• General NewsRead article →A new artwork widely believed to be by Banksy has appeared at the base of a London skyscraper, drawing crowds and sparking fresh debate.
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Denmark to Summon US Ambassador Over Trump’s Greenland Envoy Appointment
• Foreign AffairsRead article →Denmark will summon the US ambassador after Donald Trump named a special envoy to Greenland, reigniting tensions over sovereignty and Arctic politics.
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Trump Names Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as Special Envoy to Greenland
• PoliticsRead article →Donald Trump has appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as US special envoy to Greenland, reviving Washington’s strategic focus on the Arctic territory.
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Russian General Killed in Moscow Car Bombing, Investigators Say
• BreakingRead article →A senior Russian general was killed in a car bombing in Moscow, authorities said, in an attack that has heightened security concerns amid the war in Ukraine.
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James Ransone, The Wire Actor, Dies Aged 45
• General NewsRead article →James Ransone, known for his roles in The Wire, Sinister, and It Chapter Two, has died at the age of 45, prompting tributes from fans and colleagues.
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Australian PM Booed at Bondi Beach Vigil Honouring Attack Victims
• WorldRead article →Australia marked the Bondi Beach attack anniversary as mourners honoured victims, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced boos during the vigil.
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UK Watchdog Declines Probe Into Nigel Farage’s Election Spending
• PoliticsRead article →Britain’s elections watchdog says there is no evidence of wrongdoing in Nigel Farage’s constituency spending, rejecting calls for a formal investigation.
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Julian Assange Sues Nobel Foundation Over Peace Prize Award
• WorldRead article →Julian Assange has filed a legal complaint against the Nobel Foundation, accusing it of politicizing the Peace Prize by honoring a pro-war figure.
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Macron Accused of ‘Betrayal’ Over EU Ukraine Loan Deal
• OpinionRead article →French President Emmanuel Macron faces criticism after reports claim he undercut Germany’s stance on a major EU-backed loan package for Ukraine.
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US Pursues Third Oil Tanker Near Venezuela Amid Sanctions Crackdown
• WorldRead article →The United States is pursuing a third oil tanker near Venezuela, intensifying enforcement of sanctions and raising tensions over illicit crude shipments.
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U.S. Seizes Second Oil Tanker Off Venezuela as Sanctions Enforcement Intensifies
• WorldRead article →U.S. authorities have seized a second oil tanker near Venezuela, signaling tougher enforcement of sanctions amid ongoing tensions with Caracas.
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TikTok Finalizes Long-Delayed U.S. Deal With Oracle to Address Security Concerns
• TechnologyRead article →TikTok has finalized a long-awaited U.S. deal with Oracle, aiming to resolve data security concerns and ensure the platform’s continued operation nationwide.
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U.S. and EU Face Setbacks in Efforts to Seize Frozen Russian Asset
• EconomyRead article →Plans by the U.S. and EU to confiscate frozen Russian assets have stalled, highlighting legal hurdles and growing divisions over how to fund Ukraine aid.
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U.S. Launches Large-Scale Airstrikes on Islamic State Targets in Syria
• WorldRead article →The United States has carried out extensive airstrikes in Syria, targeting Islamic State facilities after intelligence pointed to renewed militant threats.
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UK Foreign Office Hit by Cyberattack as Government Moves to Contain Breach
• TechnologyRead article →The Foreign Office has confirmed a cyberattack on its systems, with ministers saying they are fairly confident no sensitive personal data was compromised.
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EU Leaders Agree Landmark Long-Term Loan Deal to Support Ukraine as War Drags On
• WorldRead article →European leaders have agreed a major long-term loan package for Ukraine, backed by frozen Russian assets, to sustain Kyiv’s war effort and economy.
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UK Inflation Drops to 3.2%, Putting a Bank of England Rate Cut “Almost Certain” Before Christmas
• EconomyRead article →UK inflation fell to 3.2% in November, below forecasts, strengthening bets the Bank of England will cut rates to 3.75% at Thursday’s meeting.
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PMQs: Starmer Condemns Bondi Beach Attack, Faces Heat on Strikes, Taxes and Jobs
• PoliticsRead article →At PMQs, Starmer condemned the Bondi Beach terror attack, urged doctors to halt strikes, and sparred with the opposition over taxes and jobs.
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US Floats NATO-Style Security Guarantees for Ukraine as Peace Talks Gain Momentum
• WorldRead article →The US has proposed Article 5-like security guarantees for Ukraine as peace talks advance, though Kyiv’s borders and possible territorial concessions remain unresolved.
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Resident Doctors in England Vote for Strike After Rejecting Latest Government Deal
• HealthRead article →Resident doctors in England have rejected a new government offer, voting for strike action just days before Christmas amid warnings of major NHS disruption.
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Starmer Faces Scrutiny on Standards, Strikes and Security at Liaison Committee
• PoliticsRead article →Keir Starmer told MPs antisemitism will be met with full force of the state as he faced sustained scrutiny over standards, strikes, leaks and policy delivery.
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Donald Trump Files $10bn Defamation Lawsuit Against BBC Over Edited January 6 Speech
• PoliticsRead article →President Trump sues the BBC for $10bn, alleging its Panorama edit of his 6 Jan 2021 speech misstated his remarks and defamed him under US law.
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UK Government Orders Independent Probe into Foreign Interference in Politics
• PoliticsRead article →Britain launches an independent review into foreign financial interference in UK politics after a former politician’s conviction for taking pro-Russia bribes.
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Hong Kong Court Convicts British Publisher Jimmy Lai on National Security Charges
• WorldRead article →Hong Kong’s High Court finds jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai guilty of national security offences, deepening concerns over press freedom under Beijing’s rule.
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Mass Shooting at Bondi Beach During Hanukkah Celebration Leaves Dozens Dead and Injured
• BreakingRead article →A terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah event killed at least 12 people and injured dozens; one gunman is dead and another in custody.
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Starmer Urges Doctors to Accept Deal and Avert Strikes as “Super Flu” Overwhelms NHS
• HealthRead article →Starmer Urges Doctors to Accept Deal and Avert Strikes as “Super Flu” Overwhelms NHS.
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ISIS Ambush in Syria Kills US Soldiers and Interpreter; Trump Vows Retaliation
• WorldRead article →Two US soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed in an ISIS ambush near Palmyra, Syria, as President Trump promises “very serious retaliation.”
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Mass Shooting at Brown University Leaves at Least Two Dead, Eight Injured as Suspect Remains at Large
• BreakingRead article →An active shooter at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island killed two people and left eight critically injured during final exams; manhunt continues.
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PMQs LIVE: Prime Minister's Questions - 10 December 2025
• PoliticsRead article →PMQs focused on Ukraine, cost of living, NHS strikes, energy bills, policing and education, amid fierce clashes over Labour’s record and leadership.
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UK Economy Contracts Unexpectedly Ahead of Budget, Fueling Growth Concerns
• EconomyRead article →UK GDP fell by 0.1% in October, defying forecasts of growth and highlighting weak output ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Autumn Budget.
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UK Police Say No Further Action Over Claims Andrew Asked Bodyguard to Investigate Virginia Giuffre
• General NewsRead article →UK police have ruled out further action after assessing claims that ex-Prince Andrew asked his bodyguard to probe accuser Virginia Giuffre.
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EU Moves to Lock Up €210bn in Russian Assets Forever — Setting Stage to Fund Ukraine
• WorldRead article →The EU will indefinitely freeze €210bn in Russian assets, ending six-monthly renewals to block vetoes and pave the way for Ukraine funding plans.