South Africa is working to help 17 of its citizens trapped in the Donbas region of Ukraine after joining mercenary forces in the Russia-Ukraine war. President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered an investigation into how these men were recruited for activities considered illegal in South Africa. The government is using diplomatic means to secure their safe return home.
Key Facts
South Africa reported that 17 of its citizens joined mercenary forces in Ukraine and are now trapped there.
The men involved are aged between 20 and 39.
South Africa's law prohibits citizens from working as mercenaries unless authorized by the government.
The men joined under the lure of promising contracts.
16 of these men are from KwaZulu-Natal, and one is from the Eastern Cape.
President Ramaphosa condemned the exploitation of young people by foreign military entities.
The government is using diplomatic channels to help bring the men back home.
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The United States is developing a new nuclear cruise missile, called the Long Range Standoff (LRSO) missile, as part of its nuclear force modernization efforts. A recent sighting of a B-52H bomber carrying unidentified weapons in California suggests that these might be LRSO missiles. The LRSO is designed to replace the older Air Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM) and will enhance the U.S.'s nuclear capabilities.
Key Facts
The U.S. is working on a new nuclear missile called Long Range Standoff (LRSO).
A U.S. bomber seen in California might have been carrying these new missiles.
The LRSO will replace the older Air Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM).
The LRSO can carry nuclear warheads and is meant to penetrate advanced air defenses.
The U.S. plans to buy over 1,000 LRSO missiles, costing $14 million each.
The missile should be ready for use by May 2030.
Raytheon is the contractor chosen to develop the LRSO.
The LRSO enhances strategic deterrence by providing flexible strike options.
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A viral TikTok trend highlights the surprise of users that Rama Duwaji, wife of New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, and Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, are both 28 years old. Duwaji, an illustrator and activist, and Leavitt have gained attention as young, influential figures in politics and culture.
Key Facts
Rama Duwaji is an illustrator and activist based in Brooklyn.
Duwaji is married to Zohran Mamdani, the recently elected Mayor of New York City.
Karoline Leavitt is the White House Press Secretary and one of the youngest in history to hold this role.
Both Duwaji and Leavitt were born in 1997 and are 28 years old.
The age similarity between the two women became a viral topic on TikTok.
Zohran Mamdani was elected as Mayor of New York City as a Democratic socialist.
Duwaji is known for her political art and activism in New York, as well as her marriage to Mamdani.
The TikTok trend sparked discussions about women's roles and representation in public life.
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Germany is offering cash to Afghans in Pakistan who were part of a resettlement plan, to discourage them from moving to Germany. The program to resettle vulnerable Afghan groups in Germany is currently suspended, but those already approved can still enter after security checks. The payment offer has faced criticism from Afghans who had hoped to move to Germany.
Key Facts
Germany is giving cash to Afghans in Pakistan if they stop trying to immigrate to Germany.
About 2,000 Afghan people were approved for moving to Germany but are still in Pakistan.
Germany paused the program in May to address migration issues important to German voters.
The suspended program targeted Afghans at risk under Taliban rule, like former German collaborators, lawyers, journalists, and human rights workers.
Germans offering money to Afghans for giving up immigration plans has been criticized.
Some Afghans have used courts to gain entry rights to Germany, despite the suspension.
Payments offered reportedly amount to several thousand euros, beginning with those agreeing while in Pakistan.
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President Donald Trump’s administration has conducted multiple military strikes on boats allegedly smuggling drugs from Caribbean and Pacific waters, killing at least 66 people. These strikes have sparked controversy, with many criticizing the lack of evidence and legality of the actions, while some support the measures to combat drug trafficking.
Key Facts
At least 66 people have died in U.S. strikes on boats suspected of drug smuggling.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the 16th strike in the eastern Pacific.
Over 90% of readers responding to a Newsweek opinion request criticized the strikes.
Critics argue there is no proof of drug activity and no arrests being made.
President Trump and his administration justify the strikes as fighting drug cartels considered terrorist groups.
Human rights groups criticize the strikes, and the U.S. claims compliance with conflict laws.
The U.S. is also increasing its military presence near Venezuela.
The Trump administration emphasizes the importance of stopping drug inflow to the U.S. due to the high number of overdose deaths.
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The Amazon rainforest is losing its ability to maintain the Earth's climate due to deforestation, fragmentation, and ecological damage. Indigenous communities play a key role in preserving the forest but face significant threats, including violence. The upcoming COP30 climate summit in Brazil will address the urgency of these issues with a focus on uniting action across Amazonian countries.
Key Facts
The Amazon has lost 16% of its forest cover and 23% of its ecological connectivity.
Fragmentation of the forest doubled between 1985 and 2022.
193 million hectares have been affected by this fragmentation.
The Amazon faces threats from illegal mining, drug trafficking, and deforestation.
In 2023, 196 environmental defenders were killed, over half in Amazonian countries.
Indigenous peoples are crucial for the forest's resilience and propose sustainable development models.
The Amazon spans multiple countries, requiring coordinated regional action.
COP30 in Brazil will focus on addressing these challenges through collective action and recognition of Indigenous knowledge.
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Survivors of two recent earthquakes in Afghanistan are facing tough conditions as winter approaches. Heavy rainfall and the threat of cold temperatures are making it difficult for people to find safe shelter. Aid is limited as major international donors have reduced funding.
Key Facts
A recent 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan, killing at least 27 people.
An earlier earthquake in August was more deadly, killing over 2,200 people.
Many people are staying in tents or outdoors due to fears of aftershocks.
Temperatures could drop to as low as -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degrees Fahrenheit).
Survivors need winter clothing and blankets to stay warm.
International aid is limited because of reduced funding from major donors.
Some survivors plan to stay through winter despite inadequate shelter.
Efforts to rebuild homes using stronger materials like concrete are underway.
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North Korea criticized new U.S. sanctions that target cybercrimes, which the U.S. says help pay for North Korea's nuclear weapons program. The U.S. Treasury imposed these sanctions on several individuals and companies linked to North Korea. Despite these tensions, President Trump still shows interest in renewing talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Key Facts
The U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on eight people and two firms related to North Korean cybercrimes.
The U.S. claims these crimes support North Korea's nuclear weapons program.
In the last three years, North Korea reportedly stole over $3 billion through hacking.
The stolen funds were allegedly laundered through a network in North Korea, China, Russia, and other countries.
North Korea promised to take countermeasures against these sanctions.
President Donald Trump is interested in restarting talks with Kim Jong Un.
Past negotiations between the U.S. and North Korea stopped in 2019 over disagreements on nuclear program steps.
Kim Jong Un has shifted his focus to Russia for foreign policy engagements.
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China continues to build coal power projects overseas, even as it reduces reliance on coal within its borders. A new report shows a rise in Chinese-backed coal projects abroad, with ongoing construction despite earlier pledges to halt new developments. The report also highlights China's efforts to cut carbon emissions and its significant role in global green energy.
Key Facts
China is the world's largest emitter of carbon emissions, making up over 30% of global emissions in the past year.
Despite pledges, Chinese-funded overseas coal projects have increased by 4.1 gigawatts (GW) in capacity compared to last year.
China pledged in 2020 to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2060.
Since that pledge, 59.3 GW worth of overseas coal projects have been canceled, preventing the emission of an estimated 6.1 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide.
As of July 2025, planned overseas coal projects were down 37% compared to 2024.
China continues to build new coal plants domestically, with 94.5 GW of new capacity launched last year, the highest since 2015.
Some experts believe China will meet its 2030 emissions goals, with fossil fuel use expected to peak by 2028.
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The Scottish Parliament has passed new land reform legislation aiming to address the concentrated land ownership in Scotland. The Land Reform (Scotland) Bill seeks to make community buy-outs easier and possibly break up large estates at sale. This has sparked debate, with some supporting community empowerment and others viewing it as harmful to private property rights.
Key Facts
The Scottish Parliament approved new land reform legislation.
More than 40% of Scotland's rural land is owned by 421 individuals and groups.
The Land Reform (Scotland) Bill aims to ease community buy-outs and provide more tenant information.
The bill gives ministers power to break up large estates when they are sold.
Supporters say it empowers communities; opponents argue it harms private property rights.
The legislation continues efforts that increased after Scottish devolution in 1999.
The Knoydart peninsula is cited as a successful example of community ownership.
The bill aims to help other communities achieve similar success as Knoydart.
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The U.S. plans to send military forces to a Syrian airbase in Damascus as part of a potential security agreement between Syria and Israel. President Donald Trump is involved in talks to create this agreement, which could change how Syria and the U.S. interact. This deployment marks a big shift in their relationship following the change in Syrian leadership.
Key Facts
The U.S. military is preparing to deploy to an airbase in Damascus, Syria.
This is part of a possible security deal between Syria and Israel.
President Donald Trump is working to create this agreement.
Six unnamed Western and Syrian sources reportedly confirmed these plans.
This move would significantly change U.S.-Syria relations.
The new Syrian President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, will visit President Trump at the White House.
The visit marks the first of its kind for a Syrian leader to the U.S.
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Councils in Devon, England, have changed the rules so that more children automatically receive free school meals. This change affects 1,300 children in Devon and increases funding for schools to support disadvantaged pupils. Other councils, like Cornwall and Plymouth, are also considering similar changes.
Key Facts
Devon County Council and Torbay Council now automatically enrol eligible children for free school meals.
This change in Devon affects about 1,300 more children, bringing total beneficiaries to approximately 21,065 pupils.
Families with an income under £7,400 a year qualify for free school meals.
The percentage of children receiving free school meals in Devon has increased from 9.6% in 2016/17 to nearly 20% by 2023/24.
The auto-enrolment policy has brought an additional £1.5 million to schools for pupil support.
Cornwall Council plans to implement a similar scheme by September 2026, potentially benefiting about 1,800 children.
Plymouth City Council is exploring this change, estimating around 2,600 eligible children not currently enrolled.
27% of children in the south-west of England were living in poverty in 2023/24, according to research.
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Prince William and Prince Harry attended important events on the same day. Prince William hosted the Earthshot Prize ceremony in Brazil, which focuses on environmental innovation. Prince Harry traveled to Canada to support military veterans and meet with reserve forces.
Key Facts
Prince William hosted the Earthshot Prize ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Five projects won £1 million each to address environmental issues.
The projects included initiatives from Brazil, Bangladesh, Colombia, Nigeria, and the United Nations.
The Earthshot Prize aims to make significant changes in the environment by 2030.
Prince Harry visited Canada to meet military veterans and the Royal Canadian Navy.
He interacted with reservists and learned about their contributions to global military operations.
Prince Harry was in Toronto and toured with the Canadian Royal Navy.
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Japan has deployed military troops in the Akita prefecture to help manage a rise in bear attacks. Over the past seven months, bears have caused injuries and fatalities in the region. The military will assist by setting traps and supporting local hunters.
Key Facts
Japan has seen a surge in bear attacks, especially in the northern Akita region.
At least 12 people have died and more than 100 have been injured in bear attacks across Japan in the past seven months.
The military will help by setting traps, aiding hunters, and managing bears, but not shooting them.
The bear population in Japan is estimated to be over 54,000.
The attacks have mostly occurred near residential areas and public places like schools and train stations.
The local Akita government reported more than 50 people attacked by bears since May, with at least four deaths.
The bear activity, often near human habitats, is partly attributed to Japan's ageing rural population.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that while the military will help, their main duty is national defense.
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Leaders from around the world are gathering in Belém, Brazil, for the COP30 climate talks, except for the United States, which will not have an official federal presence. The conference is significant due to record-high global warming and the need for countries to update their emissions reduction plans. Brazil, hosting the event, will emphasize practical solutions and highlight the role of natural ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest in addressing climate change.
Key Facts
COP30 is the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference.
The U.S. will not have an official federal government presence at the talks.
President Donald Trump has withdrawn the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement.
The Paris Agreement is marking its 10th anniversary, and countries must update their emissions plans.
COP30 is the first U.N. climate gathering held in the Amazon rainforest basin.
Brazil's President Lula da Silva is using COP30 to enhance Brazil’s role in global climate action.
Brazil will introduce a new system for financing forest protection.
The Amazon rainforest's role in climate solutions will be a focus at COP30.
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Jessica Farrington, a 45-year-old mother from Texas, experienced various symptoms, which she initially attributed to menopause or being tired. Her symptoms included night sweats, itchy skin, and unexplained weight loss. After discovering a lump in her armpit and undergoing further medical tests, Farrington was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma, a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Key Facts
Jessica Farrington is a mother of three from Texas.
She initially thought her symptoms were due to menopause or tiredness from parenting.
Her symptoms included night sweats, itchy skin, and a small lump in her armpit.
The initial medical tests did not suggest any major concerns.
A follow-up ultrasound led to further investigation of the lump.
Farrington was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma, a slow-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
The cancer had spread to various parts of her body, leading to a stage 4 diagnosis.
Follicular lymphoma symptoms can resemble other mild health issues, making it hard to diagnose early.
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A UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after taking off from Louisville, Kentucky. The crash resulted in at least 12 deaths, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the accident. The plane was en route to Hawaii when it went down in an industrial area near the airport.
Key Facts
The UPS cargo plane crashed just seconds after taking off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
The flight was headed for Honolulu, Hawaii.
At least 12 people died in the crash, and the death toll may rise.
The plane climbed to about 53 meters (175 feet) before crashing.
The left engine detached during takeoff, leading to the crash.
The crash created a fireball and subsequent explosions in a nearby industrial area.
The crashed aircraft was an MD-11 freighter carrying 144,000 liters (38,000 gallons) of fuel.
UPS uses several MD-11 jets but plans to replace them with newer aircraft.
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President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico is pressing charges against a man who groped her on the street. She wants to ensure the law punishes such acts in all Mexican states and is launching a campaign to educate men about respecting women's rights.
Key Facts
President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico was groped on a Mexico City street.
The incident was caught on video, which went viral.
Sheinbaum plans to press charges against the man involved.
She aims to ensure such actions are punishable in all 32 Mexican states.
Sheinbaum highlighted that many women face similar experiences worldwide.
She criticized the sharing of the video, calling it unethical and potentially illegal.
She announced plans to start a campaign to educate men about respecting women.
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A recent survey of climate experts suggests China's carbon emissions will likely peak by 2028, later than previously thought. Experts closely monitor China's policies as it is the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, influencing global climate change efforts.
Key Facts
China's emissions were expected to peak later than previously forecasted.
Only 20% of surveyed experts believe China's emissions have already peaked or will peak in the current year.
Most experts predict emissions will peak by 2028.
The survey consulted 68 climate experts from various sectors.
The survey is conducted by organizations based in Helsinki and Sydney.
China has pledged to reduce emissions by 7-10% by 2035 compared to its peak emissions.
China's climate actions are significant because of its status as the largest greenhouse gas emitter.
The world is watching China's policies, especially after the U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement.
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A massive typhoon called Kalmaegi has hit the Philippines, causing significant destruction. The storm has led to the deaths of at least 85 people, with 75 more missing, as it swept away cars and shipping containers.
Key Facts
Typhoon Kalmaegi hit the Philippines.
It is one of the strongest typhoons in the Philippines this year.
At least 85 people have died due to the storm.
Another 75 people are currently missing.
Floodwaters moved shipping containers through the streets.
Cars have been left piled up in some areas.
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