China is changing how maternity leave payments are made in 25 provinces to encourage more births. Starting November 1, payments will go directly to mothers instead of through employers. This change aims to make the process faster and help reduce financial challenges for families.
Key Facts
China has a low fertility rate of about 1.0, below the replacement level of 2.1 births per woman.
In 25 Chinese provinces, mothers will get maternity leave payments directly from the government starting November 1.
These payments cover living expenses during the standard 98-day maternity leave.
Previously, employers distributed these payments after getting funds from local healthcare offices.
The change is to simplify the process and reduce delays, making it easier for families to get the money.
He Yafu, a demographer, mentions it will benefit workers in informal jobs who don't have direct employers.
The National Healthcare Security Administration said the new system will cover most areas where social insurance funds are given out.
The success of this and other measures, like cash allowances per child, remains uncertain in reversing the low birth rate.
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President Donald Trump announced new U.S. sanctions against Russia's largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, to pressure Russia into negotiating peace over the Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian officials welcomed the sanctions, viewing them as a strong message against Russia. The sanctions come as Russia continues military actions in Ukraine and shifts its oil trade focus to Asian markets.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump announced sanctions targeting Russia's major oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil.
The goal of the sanctions is to push Russia towards peace negotiations over Ukraine.
Ukrainian officials and allies expressed support for the sanctions, seeing them as a strong message to Russia.
Russia's Foreign Ministry labeled the sanctions as "counterproductive."
Rosneft is responsible for 6% of global oil production.
European countries and allies have reduced reliance on Russian oil, while Russia looks to Asian markets like China and India.
The European Union also introduced a new sanctions package targeting Russia's energy and finances.
Russia's government criticized these sanctions, calling them an economic attack.
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Voters in Caerphilly are participating in a by-election to choose a new member of the Senedd. The election is taking place due to the death of Labour's Hefin David. The polls are open from 07:00 to 22:00 BST, and the outcome will be known early Friday.
Key Facts
The by-election is being held in Caerphilly to replace Hefin David, a Labour member who passed away in August.
Polling hours are from 07:00 to 22:00 BST.
The newly elected member will serve until May 2026.
The election allows 16 and 17-year-olds to vote, and no ID is required.
There are eight candidates from different political parties.
The parties represented are Liberal Democrats, Gwlad, Greens, Conservatives, Reform, UKIP, Labour, and Plaid Cymru.
Results and analysis will be available through BBC's digital and broadcast platforms.
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Researchers uncovered a new dinosaur species in Mongolia, known as Zavacephale rinpoche, dating back to the early Cretaceous period. This discovery is significant because it is the oldest known pachycephalosaur, a type of dinosaur with a distinct domed skull, and provides new information about their evolution.
Key Facts
A new dinosaur species named Zavacephale rinpoche was found in Mongolia.
This dinosaur lived during the early Cretaceous period, about 110 million years ago.
It is identified as a pachycephalosaur, known for their thick, dome-shaped skulls.
The discovery is the oldest known find of this dinosaur type, predating others by 15 million years.
Scientists published this finding in the scientific journal Nature.
The fossil was found in 2019 and transported to North Carolina in 2022 for further study.
The fossil helps fill a gap in understanding the evolution of dome-headed dinosaurs.
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A Chinese national accused of major drug trafficking into the United States has been recaptured in Cuba after previously escaping custody in Mexico. This individual, identified as Zhi Dong Zhang, also known as "Brother Wang," was wanted in the U.S. for moving fentanyl and cocaine and had briefly stayed in Russia before being sent back to Cuba where he was arrested. This event occurs amid increased U.S. military actions against drug smuggling, further straining U.S.-Latin American relations.
Key Facts
Zhi Dong Zhang, also known as "Brother Wang," is a Chinese national charged with drug trafficking in the U.S.
Zhang was initially arrested in Mexico in October 2024, but escaped house arrest in July 2025.
After escaping, Zhang travelled to Cuba and then Russia, before being returned to and recaptured in Cuba.
Zhang's arrest comes as the U.S. accuses Mexico of not doing enough to prevent fentanyl smuggling.
The U.S. has launched military strikes as part of its campaign against drug trafficking, targeting vessels in international waters.
President Trump has suspended military aid to Colombia and criticized its president, blaming him for drug-related issues.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced plans to take legal action against President Trump's remarks.
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The Louvre Museum in Paris experienced a theft where thieves stole jewels worth over $100 million. The museum's director admitted to security failures and offered to resign, but the offer was refused. The incident highlighted weaknesses in the museum’s security, including outdated cameras and insufficient monitoring.
Key Facts
Thieves stole jewelry valued at about 88 million euros ($102 million) from the Louvre Museum.
The museum's director, Laurence des Cars, admitted the security failure and offered to resign, but France's culture minister refused the offer.
The heist revealed security issues, such as a shortage of cameras and outdated equipment.
The theft involved the use of a truck with a ladder to access a balcony window.
The thieves spent less than four minutes in the museum and escaped on motorbikes.
Notable stolen items include a necklace given by Napoleon Bonaparte and a diamond diadem from Empress Eugenie.
None of the stolen jewels were insured, meaning the museum would not receive compensation if they are not recovered.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the theft an "attack on a heritage that we cherish."
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A man named David Moss discovered two clay pots containing up to 15,000 Roman coins in north Wales, potentially the largest coin hoard found in Wales. The coins are now being examined by experts at the National Museum Cardiff to understand their historical significance. They might have been buried by Roman soldiers for safekeeping.
Key Facts
David Moss found the coins in a field in north Wales.
The coins are believed to be from Roman times.
Moss initially kept the coins in his car for three days before handing them to experts.
The National Museum Cardiff is analyzing the coins to determine their age and significance.
The largest Roman coin hoard previously found in Wales contains 10,000 coins.
The coins might have belonged to Roman soldiers who buried them for safekeeping.
Moss and the landowner could receive a monetary reward once the coins are evaluated.
By law, treasure finds in Wales must be reported within 14 days.
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National Geographic has listed Hull, a city in northern England, as one of the top 25 global places to visit in 2026. Despite being previously labeled the "worst town" in the UK, recent changes like cultural rejuvenation and improved attractions have contributed to its new standing.
Key Facts
Hull is included in National Geographic's Best of the World list for 2026 as a top global destination.
Hull was previously labeled as the "worst town" in the UK in a 2003 book.
The city experienced significant improvements in the past decade, highlighted by being named the UK City of Culture in 2017.
Key attractions include the Hull Maritime Museum and the Arctic Corsair, a historic ship telling the city’s maritime history.
A £27.5 million renovation project is underway at the Maritime Museum and other city sites.
Local leaders and residents express pride and surprise at the recognition Hull received from National Geographic.
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France is reconsidering its recent promise to stop small boats carrying migrants from crossing the English Channel. Issues within the French government are affecting efforts to halt these crossings. Meanwhile, migrant boats continue to leave France for the UK, often from areas near the coast.
Key Facts
France had promised to take stronger actions against migrant boats in the English Channel.
Political problems in France are causing delays in these efforts.
Migrant boats are still leaving France almost every day.
The UK government is frustrated by these delays, as they affect border security.
French police are hesitant to intervene due to safety risks.
Bruno Retailleau, a key figure in pushing for tougher actions, is no longer in the government.
A new plan to intercept boats at sea may not happen soon due to government reshuffling in France.
Some local residents observe frequent boat departures and limited police intervention.
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A UK study examined side effects of 30 antidepressants, comparing how each affects weight, heart rate, and more. SSRIs, common in the U.S., generally had fewer side effects than older drugs. The study aims to help personalize antidepressant treatment based on individual health needs.
Key Facts
The study analyzed data from over 150 clinical trials involving more than 58,000 patients.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like Zoloft and Prozac showed fewer side effects compared to older antidepressants.
The study examined how different antidepressants affect weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, among other health areas.
Nortriptyline, an older drug, could increase heart rate significantly compared to SSRIs.
Results showed a potential average weight change of up to four pounds, depending on the medication.
A free digital tool was developed to help doctors and patients choose medications based on desired side effect profiles.
The study used mostly data from 8-week trials, not long-term use data, which is a limitation.
Common side effects like impacts on sexual function were not included in the study's analysis.
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Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law, is working to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. Kushner, along with special envoy Steve Witkoff, is in the Middle East to help continue a peace deal process amid concerns about his business ties in the region.
Key Facts
Jared Kushner, President Trump's son-in-law, has returned to the Middle East to help with peace efforts.
Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff are working to maintain a ceasefire in Gaza.
President Trump asked Kushner to assist because of his past success in Middle East negotiations.
Kushner previously played a key role in establishing the Abraham Accords, which improved relations between Israel and some Arab countries.
Kushner has business connections in the region, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
Kushner's firm, Affinity Partners, received investments from Middle Eastern governments.
Despite ethical concerns, Kushner's relationships are credited with helping achieve quick progress in peace talks.
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Ukraine's president is scheduled to meet with leaders from the European Union on Thursday. Legal decisions may be made soon about President Trump's use of the National Guard. The Pentagon's press team is experiencing changes in its makeup.
Key Facts
Ukraine's president is planning to meet with EU leaders.
The meeting with EU leaders is set for Thursday.
There are ongoing legal battles related to President Trump's National Guard deployments.
Decisions about these legal matters could be made this week.
The Pentagon's press corps is undergoing changes with a right-wing influence.
The mentioned changes are affecting the composition of the press team.
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The U.S. and other Western countries have imposed sanctions on Russian oil exports since 2022. Russia uses a fleet of older oil tankers, called a "shadow fleet," to bypass these sanctions and continue its oil trade.
Key Facts
Western countries, including the U.S., have set sanctions against Russian oil since 2022.
Russia is using older oil tankers to avoid these sanctions.
This group of tankers is known as the "shadow fleet."
These tankers help Russia keep trading oil despite the restrictions.
The Planet Money team provides details on how this fleet works.
The tankers in the shadow fleet are not easily tracked or regulated.
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Peru's interim president has announced a state of emergency in the capital city, Lima. This decision is officially to address crime, but there is speculation it aims to control ongoing anti-government protests.
Key Facts
Peru's interim president declared a state of emergency in Lima.
The official reason for this decision is to tackle crime in the city.
The announcement follows several weeks of protests against the government.
The state of emergency gives authorities special powers.
Some people think this move is partly to manage the protests.
This decision impacts the capital city, Lima.
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The Pentagon has chosen new members for its press corps after several major news organizations opted out of a new policy. The new members show a clear partisan leaning.
Key Facts
The Pentagon selected new press corps members on October 23, 2025.
Major news organizations refused to sign a new media policy.
The selected new members of the press corps have a strong partisan bias.
The announcement was covered in a Morning Edition report by David Folkenflik and Steve Inskeep.
The changes reflect a shift in the type of media covering the Pentagon.
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A woman discovered an ornate tile floor hidden under the carpet in her Victorian-era home. The video's popularity on TikTok reflects a growing trend where homeowners are revealing and restoring historical features. This trend occurs alongside a significant increase in spending on home renovations in the U.S.
Key Facts
A TikTok video showing a woman uncovering a patterned tile floor has gained 1.4 million views.
The house is an 1870s Victorian home, and the tile is likely original.
The homeowner always suspected a "treasure" under the carpet and was proven right.
The video mirrors a trend where homeowners restore historical features.
A survey showed that U.S. spending on home renovations rose from $15,000 in 2020 to $24,000 in 2023.
The global real estate industry is projected to grow to $5.85 trillion by 2030.
As cities grow more crowded, people value personal space and historical home features more.
Online comments expressed surprise and admiration for the uncovered floor.
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Ukraine has introduced a new type of unmanned naval drone called the "Sea Baby." This drone can travel over 900 miles and is equipped to carry various weapons, potentially challenging Russia's naval forces in the Black Sea.
Key Facts
Ukraine's new drone, the "Sea Baby," can travel more than 900 miles.
The drone carries a payload of over 4,400 pounds and includes a multiple-rocket launcher and machine-gun turret.
Ukraine has used these drones in attacks, including against the Crimean Bridge and Russian naval vessels.
The drones have contributed to the relocation of Russia's main naval base from Crimea to another location.
The Sea Baby project partially relied on funds raised by Ukrainians through the United24 platform.
Ukrainian officials claim these drones have changed the power balance in the Black Sea.
The Security Service of Ukraine leads this new maritime drone technology initiative.
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The article discusses a parenting approach called "risky play" that the author encountered in Germany. It involves allowing young children to engage in activities like lighting matches and using real tools, which help them learn about safety and limits. The author, an American living in Berlin, initially found this approach challenging but eventually embraced it after seeing its benefits.
Key Facts
The author's 3-year-old learned to light a match at a German preschool.
In Germany, "risky play" includes children using real tools like saws and hammers.
Teachers instruct children on safety measures before they try activities on their own.
The approach focuses on children learning to test their own limits.
The author described situations where her children safely navigated potentially dangerous situations.
"Risky play" is different from typical American child safety practices.
The author ultimately accepted this approach, believing it helps children make good decisions.
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A Kremlin official has accused U.S. President Donald Trump of committing an "act of war" against Russia. This follows Trump's imposition of new sanctions on Russian oil companies and the cancellation of a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Key Facts
President Trump imposed new sanctions on Russia's largest oil companies.
A planned meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin was called off.
Dmitry Medvedev, a top Kremlin official, made the "act of war" accusation.
Medvedev serves as the deputy chairman of the Kremlin's Security Council.
He claimed the U.S. is now considered an enemy by Russia.
Medvedev also mentioned that Trump has sided with European countries against Russia.
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President Donald Trump announced new U.S. sanctions against Russia's two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, aiming to pressure Russia to end its conflict with Ukraine. The sanctions are intended to weaken Russia's economy and encourage negotiations for peace. The decision follows recent similar actions by the UK and is part of broader diplomatic efforts by the U.S.
Key Facts
U.S. sanctions target Rosneft and Lukoil, Russia's two largest oil producers.
President Trump hopes the sanctions will pressure Russia to negotiate peace with Ukraine.
Rosneft and Lukoil collectively export 3.1 million barrels of oil per day.
Rosneft accounts for nearly half of Russia's oil production, which is 6% of the global output.
The sanctions were announced via Trump's Truth Social platform.
The UK had imposed similar sanctions on the same companies one week earlier.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) blacklisted the companies.
President Trump postponed a planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest.
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