Bangladesh held a state funeral for Khaleda Zia, a former Prime Minister, with large crowds gathering to honor her contributions to the country. Zia, who was the first woman to be Prime Minister of Bangladesh, passed away at the age of 80. The government declared a public holiday and three days of mourning.
Key Facts
Khaleda Zia was a former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the first woman to hold the position.
She passed away at the age of 80.
A state funeral took place with vast crowds and high security in Dhaka.
Flags were flown at half-mast across Bangladesh, and Wednesday was declared a public holiday.
Khaleda Zia entered politics after her husband's death and opposed a military ruler in 1990.
She was the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party until her death.
Bangladesh's interim government announced three days of mourning.
The funeral had about 10,000 security personnel, including soldiers, to maintain order.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Russian drones attacked Odesa, Ukraine, injuring six people, including children, and damaging buildings and energy sites. The attack is part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has seen an increase in targeted strikes on civilian areas and infrastructure. Meanwhile, efforts for peace negotiations continue amid claims and denials between the two countries.
Key Facts
Russian drones hit apartment buildings and the power grid in Odesa, Ukraine.
Six people were hurt in the attack, including a toddler and two other children.
Four apartment buildings and several power facilities in Odesa were damaged.
The year has seen increased attacks on Ukraine's urban areas and energy structures.
More than 2,300 Ukrainian civilians were killed between January and November 2023, with over 11,000 injured.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence in eventual victory in the conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss peace efforts.
Russia alleged that Ukraine attempted an attack on Putin's residence, a claim denied by Ukraine.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan on New Year's Eve, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. There were no tsunami warnings, injuries, or damage reported immediately after. The earthquake occurred near Noda, Japan, an area prone to earthquakes because of its location on the Ring of Fire.
Key Facts
The earthquake had a magnitude of 6.0.
It happened off the coast of Japan on New Year's Eve.
The U.S. Geological Survey provided the information about the earthquake.
No immediate tsunami warnings, injuries, or damage were reported.
The earthquake's epicenter was 56 miles (91 km) east of Noda, Japan.
Japan is located along the Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent seismic activity.
A few weeks earlier, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake hit the Aomori region in Japan.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Queen Camilla of Britain shared her experience of being attacked on a train in the 1960s to raise awareness about violence against women. She used her royal position to speak out and encourages open discussions about domestic violence. Queen Camilla has prioritized fighting domestic abuse as a key issue.
Key Facts
Queen Camilla spoke about an assault she experienced on a train in the 1960s.
The incident occurred when she was a teenager, and she did not speak about it for many years.
Camilla is using her platform to address the issue of violence against women.
She believes that domestic violence has been a taboo topic for too long.
The interview included praise for a family affected by domestic violence, specifically for their advocacy work.
A book titled "Power and the Palace" had recounted Camilla's story based on a conversation with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The attack involved a man attempting to touch her; she defended herself with her shoe.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
In Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan, a woman working as a school janitor reconnects with her childhood dream of performing music by playing the komuz, a traditional Kyrgyz instrument. The documentary "Memories of a Dream" by Danysh Akylbekov highlights her story.
Key Facts
The woman lives in a village called Balykchy in Kyrgyzstan.
She works as a school janitor and takes care of her grandchildren.
Her childhood dream was to perform on stage.
She plays an instrument called the komuz, which is traditional in Kyrgyzstan.
The documentary about her is called "Memories of a Dream."
Danysh Akylbekov directed the documentary.
Madaniyat Entertainment produced the film.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
An electrician, whose wife forgot to pack a fork with his lunch, used electric wires as an improvised fork which gained attention on TikTok. The incident highlights how some people are opting for homemade meals over dining out due to rising restaurant prices. Over 82% of Americans notice increased restaurant prices, causing many to change their eating habits.
Key Facts
An electrician used electric wires as a fork when his wife forgot to include one in his lunch.
The video of his invention went viral on TikTok with over 2.5 million views.
Rising costs have led more Americans to choose homemade meals rather than buying takeout.
Over 82% of Americans have noticed a rise in restaurant prices.
69% of people reported eating out less often due to higher costs.
About 91% of independent restaurants have increased their menu prices in 2024.
Even a 15% price increase wasn't enough for some restaurants to maintain profits.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
An emergency doctor named James Smith discusses what could happen in Gaza if Israel stops allowing aid groups to work there. He believes this ban could have serious impacts on the people living in Gaza.
Key Facts
An emergency doctor named James Smith is commenting on the situation.
Israel is considering banning aid groups from working in Gaza.
Aid organizations help provide essential services and supplies.
The ban could lead to problems for Palestinians living in Gaza.
The situation in Gaza is already difficult, and aid helps support the population.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Myanmar's military reported that over 50% of eligible voters participated in the first phase of national elections, despite criticism calling it a "sham" poll. The pro-military party claimed most of the seats, but rights groups and other critics questioned the election's fairness due to ongoing violence and restrictions.
Key Facts
Myanmar's military reported a 52% voter turnout in the first phase of national elections.
These elections took place amid a civil war, with many areas in conflict.
The pro-military party claimed it won over 80% of contested seats in the lower house.
Human rights groups and Western diplomats criticized the elections, calling them a "sham."
Critics highlighted there were restrictions on free expression and association.
Voter turnout was lower compared to the 70% turnout in the 2020 elections.
Elections covered about a third of Myanmar's townships due to ongoing fighting.
There is no minimum turnout requirement for Myanmar's elections under the current legal framework.
Aung San Suu Kyi, the former leader, remains in detention, and her political party has been dissolved.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A viral TikTok video shows a golden retriever helping to groom a 26-year-old cat who can no longer do it himself. The video has received a lot of attention online and features the dog lovingly cleaning the cat with its tongue. Grooming is important for cats' health, and the video highlights the unusual and heartwarming friendship between the two pets.
Key Facts
A TikTok video features a golden retriever grooming a 26-year-old cat.
The cat is unable to groom itself due to its age.
The video was shared by a user with the name @laurawalker55.
The clip has received over 21,500 views and nearly 2,700 likes.
Grooming is a natural behavior for cats that helps with cleanliness and stress relief.
Dogs stepping in to help with grooming is an unusual but heartwarming event.
The video attracted positive comments from viewers online.
The story was published by Newsweek, a member of the Trust Project.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A dog that was living in a shelter two weeks ago has now been adopted and is enjoying life with its new owners. A video of the dog looking happy on a boat ride has gone viral on social media. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has reported statistics on pet adoptions and euthanasia in shelters.
Key Facts
A rescue dog was adopted from a shelter and is now happily living with new owners.
A TikTok video shows the dog enjoying a boat ride, and it has over 566,000 views and 139,700 likes.
About 5.8 million animals entered shelters across the U.S. last year.
Of these, only about 4.2 million animals were adopted into new homes.
Approximately 334,000 dogs and 273,000 cats were euthanized in shelters last year.
Shelters euthanize animals to make space for new ones.
Adopting rescue dogs may require extra time for them to adjust to their new homes.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A couple adopted a puppy they thought was a Lab mix, but a DNA test showed it was actually a mix of several other breeds, including Belgian Malinois and American Bulldog. The unexpected energy levels and behavior of the puppy led them to get help from a dog trainer. The post about their experience gained attention online.
Key Facts
A couple adopted a puppy they believed was a Labrador retriever mix.
The shelter suggested the dog might be mixed with Great Dane or pit bull.
A DNA test showed the dog is 32.5% Belgian Malinois and 29.7% American Bulldog, among other breeds.
The dog had high energy and behavioral challenges.
The couple consulted a trainer to help manage the dog's behavior.
DNA tests can reveal a dog's breed heritage and potential health issues.
The testing process typically involves a saliva swab and costs between $60 and $150.
The couple shared their story on Reddit, receiving significant social media attention.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Repairs have restored a critical power line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, which is important for ongoing peace talks involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia. The plant is not currently producing energy, but it's a key issue in discussions due to its significant potential to supply electricity, currently controlled by Russia. Both Ukraine and Russia have interests in the plant for economic and strategic reasons.
Key Facts
A damaged power line at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has been fixed.
The plant plays a central role in peace talks brokered by the U.S. between Ukraine and Russia.
Although the plant is in Ukraine, Russian forces control it.
Ukraine could potentially receive half of the plant's electricity under a proposed agreement.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) monitors the plant's safety.
Ukrainian staff have faced pressure from Russian troops since the takeover.
The plant is crucial for Ukraine's energy supply, historically providing over 20% of its power.
Russia claims the entire Zaporizhzhia region, and its control over the plant is part of a larger territorial dispute.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Women in Gaza face severe hardships due to ongoing conflict. They struggle with food shortages, displacement, and lack of basic needs while caring for children and the vulnerable. This situation has worsened due to restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Key Facts
Women in Gaza deal with food scarcity and difficult living conditions due to conflict.
Israel has blocked critical aid like tents and caravans needed for winter.
Women often care for children, the elderly, and injured people under these conditions.
Many women go without food themselves to ensure their children are fed.
Displaced women lack access to basic sanitation, privacy, and safety.
Widowhood is common, increasing vulnerability and hardships for women.
Humanitarian aid restrictions force many to risk their lives to secure food.
The nutrition of mothers and infants is severely compromised, impacting health.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Canadian author Rachel Reid shared that the TV success of her book "Heated Rivalry" unexpectedly led to her receiving help for her Parkinson's disease. After her diagnosis became public, a Parkinson's expert reached out to assist her in getting treatment. The show, which is about a same-sex relationship between ice hockey players, has gained attention and is set to release in the UK soon.
Key Facts
Rachel Reid is the author of the "Game Changers" book series, which began in 2018.
"Heated Rivalry" is a popular TV adaptation of her book series.
Reid was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the summer of 2023.
A Parkinson's expert contacted Reid after hearing about her diagnosis during a show publicity interview.
Reid had been on a five-year waiting list to see a Parkinson's specialist.
She secured an appointment with a neurologist who advised her on medication changes to improve sleep.
Reid struggles with writing due to her Parkinson's symptoms, which include difficulty controlling a mouse and typing for long periods.
"Heated Rivalry" launches in the UK in January on Sky and streaming service Now.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Mali and Burkina Faso have decided to stop U.S. citizens from entering their countries. This decision is a response to President Donald Trump's new travel ban that includes these two West African nations. Both countries expressed their actions are based on mutual respect and fairness.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump expanded the U.S. travel ban to include Mali and Burkina Faso.
In response, these countries will not allow U.S. citizens to enter.
The foreign ministers mentioned principles of reciprocity and mutual respect in their statements.
The decision by Mali and Burkina Faso followed a similar move by Niger.
All three countries involved are currently governed by military leaders.
The U.S. travel ban also includes South Sudan, Syria, and Palestinian Authority passport holders.
New restrictions will start on January 1st.
In addition to full bans, some countries now have partial restrictions, such as Nigeria, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A man named John has attempted to train his 4-month-old goldendoodle puppy, Cannoli, but his soft-hearted approach has left her somewhat mischievous. A video showing this training was shared widely on TikTok, gaining over 9 million views. Despite the challenges, the family is happy with Cannoli's progress and her place in the family.
Key Facts
John attempted to train his goldendoodle puppy, Cannoli, using gentle methods.
A video of the training session was shared on Cannoli's TikTok page, gaining over 9 million views.
The video shows John rewarding Cannoli even when she doesn't follow commands, leading to her mischievous behavior.
John’s daughter, Anna, says he and Cannoli have a close bond, which affects his training style.
The family has been teaching Cannoli basic commands like “sit” and “paw.”
Cannoli is showing progress with house training and other skills.
The TikTok video received positive reactions, with over 2.1 million likes and many comments from fellow dog owners.
The family continues to encourage John to be more consistent with the training.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Bulgaria is set to join the eurozone on Thursday, becoming the 21st country to adopt the euro currency. This decision comes despite some Bulgarians expressing concerns about inflation and economic challenges. Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007 and met the criteria to join the eurozone in January 2025.
Key Facts
Bulgaria will be the 21st member of the eurozone.
The country has been part of the European Union since 2007.
Bulgaria met the eurozone entry criteria in January 2025.
There are concerns in Bulgaria about potential inflation and economic instability.
The move will extend the euro’s use to 356 million people, including in the Black Sea region.
Some Bulgarians have been protesting, calling for governmental changes due to economic concerns.
A conversion rate has been set at 1 euro to 1.95583 Bulgarian lev (BGN).
Bulgaria has informally pegged its currency to the euro since 1999 by tying it to the German mark.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Thousands of people in Bangladesh gathered in Dhaka to pay their final respects to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who passed away at the age of 80. Zia, the first female prime minister of Bangladesh, was honored with a state funeral, drawing both local mourners and international dignitaries.
Key Facts
Khaleda Zia was Bangladesh's first female prime minister.
She passed away at the age of 80 due to a long illness.
A large motorcade carried her body through Dhaka, and many people gathered to show their respect.
The national flag was flown at half-mast, and security was increased for the funeral.
Notable figures from countries like India, Pakistan, and Bhutan attended the funeral.
Khaleda Zia's son, Tarique Rahman, recently returned to Bangladesh after 17 years abroad.
Zia's political career included leadership roles and conflicts with her rival, Sheikh Hasina.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) planned for Zia to run in upcoming elections before her death.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Many people gathered in Dhaka, Bangladesh, for the state funeral of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. She passed away at 79 years old and was the first woman prime minister of the country. Bangladesh declared three days of mourning to honor her contributions to the country's democratic movement.
Key Facts
Khaleda Zia was the first female prime minister of Bangladesh, serving from 1991.
She died at the age of 79 after a long illness.
Huge crowds gathered in Dhaka for her state funeral, with attendees from across Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.
About 10,000 security personnel were on duty to maintain order during the funeral.
Bangladesh declared three days of state mourning in her honor.
Khaleda Zia was remembered for her role in shaping Bangladesh's democratic movement.
Her son, Tarique Rahman, returned to Bangladesh after 17 years abroad and may run for prime minister if his party wins upcoming elections.
Dignitaries from neighboring countries, including India's foreign minister, attended the funeral ceremony.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Protests took place in Iran after the country's currency, the rial, dropped to its lowest value against the US dollar. People in cities like Tehran, including shopkeepers and students, demonstrated against increasing prices and economic difficulties. The Iranian government has promised discussions and economic help.
Key Facts
Iran's currency, the rial, hit a record low against the US dollar.
Protests happened in several cities, including Tehran.
Demonstrators included shopkeepers and students.
The main reason for protests was the rising prices and economic hardship.
The government has promised to hold talks and provide economic relief.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
