Donald Trump's election win was not a landslide, data suggests
Donald Trump won the 2024 US presidential election with a majority in the electoral college, but his share of the popular vote has fallen below 50%. His communications director called it a "landslide" victory, but experts say it was a relatively close contest. Trump's party also won both chambers of Congress.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn5w9w160xdo
"Mozambique's capital, Maputo, is experiencing a turbulent period following last month's presidential election. The opposition-organised protests against the outcome have resulted in several deaths, including children as young as 16. Human Rights Watch reports at least 40 people killed, with 10 of them minors. The police commander attributes the deaths to protesters using children as shields and unleashing violence. However, opposition leaders accuse police of excessive force. The situation remains volatile, with daily protests and a call for justice."
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czr722v4x8yo
"A group of Indian school children, supported by a non-profit organization, created a viral fashion show video showcasing their own designs and models. The video, inspired by top Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee's heritage bridal collection, has received widespread attention and praise. However, concerns were raised about potential implications for child marriage in India."
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crk4rl4j5y6o
** China's giant sinkholes become tourist attraction, but ancient forests at risk. Scientists and locals debate balance between exploration and preservation.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8697gqwyx6o
Ukraine-Russia conflict escalates with major policy changes and nuclear threats. Western powers boost military support, while Russia deploys new missile capabilities, raising concerns about global implications.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgxly3nzwpo
** "Multiple deaths reported in Laos due to suspected methanol poisoning. An investigation is underway into the deaths of six foreign tourists, including two Australian women and a British woman, who fell ill after consuming drinks at a popular hostel in Vang Vieng. Local authorities had previously attempted to curb excessive partying and promote eco-tourism in the area."
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxv700qg50o
Donald Trump is reportedly set to nominate Scott Bessent, a Wall Street financier and early supporter of his 2024 bid, to lead the US Treasury Department. Bessent has expressed support for extending tax cuts, defending tariffs as a negotiating tool, and championing cryptocurrency. His nomination comes as Trump prepares to assemble his team for a second term.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj3mv6l1ypyo
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Mpox Outbreak in DR Congo Appears to Be Slowing Down, but Global Alert Remains
According to recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) and medics on the ground, the mpox outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has slowed down following a vaccine rollout. While there are signs of improvement, health officials caution against premature celebration, emphasizing that it's still too early to determine the full impact of vaccinations.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqxw1l05l1ro
US Representative Matt Gaetz confirms he will not resume his seat in Congress, citing a desire for "a new perch" in the fight against what he calls the "America First army". The move comes amid scrutiny over sex-trafficking allegations and controversy surrounding his nomination as Trump's attorney general. Gaetz had denied the allegations and emphasized his commitment to President Trump's agenda.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/22/a-new-perch-trump-loyalist-matt-gaetz-confirms-us-congress-departure?traffic_source=rss
Nicaragua Approves Reforms Boosting Power of President Ortega and His Wife
Explanatory changes to the Nicaraguan Constitution have been approved, strengthening the power of longtime President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo. The reforms, which were approved unanimously by lawmakers, include elevating Murillo to the post of "co-president," increasing the presidential term from five to six years, and extending executive control over the media.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/22/nicaragua-approves-reforms-boosting-power-of-president-ortega-and-his-wife?traffic_source=rss
** Manchester City's Pep Guardiola Signs Two-Year Extension Amid Financial Fair Play Hearing
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has signed a two-year extension with the club, keeping him at the helm until 2027. This decision comes as the team faces a hearing over alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial fair play rules, which could result in points deductions, fines, or even relegation if found guilty.
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Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2024/11/22/man-city-vs-tottenham-pep-latest-kickoff-time-team-news-where-to-watch?traffic_source=rss
** Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula experiences seventh volcanic eruption in under a year, while southern Spain and Ireland face severe flooding. No immediate reports of casualties or disruptions to air travel.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/videos/cq521pw0pgjo
** Climate Talks at COP29 Overrun as Richer and Poorer Countries Disagree on Climate Funding
Climate negotiations at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) have stalled due to disagreements between richer and poorer countries over climate funding. While wealthier nations offered to increase their annual contribution from $100bn to $250bn, developing countries rejected this as insufficient. They demand $1.3tn by 2035 to cope with the impacts of a warming world.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2l9y89v9jno
** Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces potential arrest in UK over alleged war crimes, sparking international debate.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjr4gvydxeno
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US Capitol Christmas tree arrives in DC, amidst ongoing electoral discussions. The 80-foot Sitka spruce traveled over 4,000 miles from Alaska and was welcomed near the US Capitol building.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/videos/cp87rdj8kk2o
Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korea's main zoo with over 70 animals, including a lion and two brown bears, in a display of strengthened relations between Moscow and Pyongyang. The gesture comes amid growing ties between the two nations, with Russia seeking support for its war efforts in Ukraine and North Korea looking to bolster its missile program through Russian space technology.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx24175015jo
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Reports emerge of Israeli air strikes in Gaza, with hospital officials claiming multiple casualties. Gazan medics struggle to treat injured, citing lack of humanitarian aid. UN warns 75,000 people remain under siege in northern Gaza, where up to 130,000 have been displaced. The conflict has led to nearly 44,000 deaths and over 104,000 injuries in Gaza since October 2023.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg7zyr8p15o
** Florida Man Arrested for Plotting to Bomb NYSE, FBI Charges Attempt to Damage US Government Facility
A 30-year-old man from Coral Springs, Florida has been arrested and charged by the FBI for planning to bomb the New York Stock Exchange in an effort to "reboot" the US government. Harun Abdul-Malik Yener allegedly possessed materials related to bomb-making and had conducted online searches about explosives since 2017.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/i-feel-like-bin-laden-florida-man-arrested-by-fbi-for-planning-to-bomb-nyse-to-reboot-us-government-777883
** Four tourists have died in suspected mass poisoning in Laos, with authorities investigating possible methanol contamination. The cases are under police investigation, and local authorities are warning travelers about the risks of consuming bootleg alcohol. Global incidents of methanol poisoning have been reported in various countries, highlighting concerns over counterfeit liquor production.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c245243m3m9o
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korea a group of rare animals, including an African lion and two brown bears, as part of efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries. The animals were transferred from Moscow's zoo to Pyongyang Central Zoo, accompanied by Russian veterinarians. This gesture is seen as a symbol of growing cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-sends-african-lion-rare-animals-to-pyongyang-zoo-as-a-gift-to-the-korean-people-777889
** Thousands join Berlin march against Russian President Putin, demanding end to Ukraine war and freedom for political prisoners.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce9g4ln2d8eo
Brazilian first lady Janja Lula da Silva uses expletive against Elon Musk at G20 event, sparking diplomatic tension. Context: Ongoing tensions between Brazil's government and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk over social media regulation and free speech.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy1693xwlzo
US-China relations to be tested under Trump's presidency
Xi Jinping and Joe Biden meet on sidelines of Apec summit, pledging cooperation but analysts warn of potential volatility.
President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to raise tariffs on Chinese imports, a move that could escalate tensions.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2l4dn802lo
** Super Typhoon Man-Yi Brings Catastrophic Conditions to Philippines
A powerful super typhoon, known locally as Pepito, has made landfall in the Philippines, bringing with it potentially catastrophic conditions. The storm, classified as a Category 4 typhoon, made landfall at 21:40 local time (13:40 GMT) on the eastern Catanduanes island, with maximum sustained wind speeds of 195 km/h (121mph). Heavy rains and severe winds are expected to impact a large area, with over 400,000 people evacuated ahead of the storm's arrival. At least 160 people have died in previous storms this month.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg5j1k8w8qo
Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in a conflict since late February 2022. The situation escalated on Sunday, November 17th, with Russia launching one of its largest aerial attacks against Ukraine's energy infrastructure. This attack resulted in emergency power cuts in Kyiv and two eastern regions, as per reports from the Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously stated that the Russian offensive had destroyed half of Ukraine's energy production capacity. The war has left Ukraine facing major energy shortfalls.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-targets-ukraine-with-one-of-the-largest-aerial-attacks-says-kyiv-776828
**Xi Jinping Emerges as Global Advocate for Free Trade**
Chinese President Xi Jinping has taken a strong stance against protectionism, advocating for free trade and a rules-based system at the APEC CEO Summit in Peru. This move comes as US President-elect Donald Trump threatens to impose tariffs on China and the rest of the world. Xi's speech emphasized the importance of tearing down trade barriers and promoting economic circulation globally.
**Background**
This development follows a similar stance taken by Xi in 2017, when he urged global business elites to reject trade wars and protectionism at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Trump's punitive tariffs on China have been largely maintained by the Biden administration, with Trump now threatening to impose even higher tariffs on China and the rest of the world.
**Reactions**
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the importance of a rules-based system, while former Chinese Commerce Ministry official Ren Hongbin called for participants to "stand up to protectionism and unilateralism." Global trade leaders are closely watching these developments, with market participants and investors following the trajectory of US-China relations.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/xi-emerges-as-global-advocate-for-free-trade-countering-trump-776824
Senegal holds parliamentary elections, with President Faye seeking a majority to push through reforms. Over 7 million citizens are eligible to vote, amidst concerns about jobs, rising prices, and migration. The ruling Pastef party is favored to win, but opposition parties have formed unexpected alliances. Analysts note that Senegalese voters typically confirm their presidential choice in parliamentary elections.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/17/senegal-votes-as-president-faye-eyes-parliamentary-majority-to-push-reforms?traffic_source=rss
"US President-elect Donald Trump attended a UFC event in New York, where he celebrated his election victory with supporters and notable figures including Elon Musk and cabinet nominees Robert F Kennedy Jr, Tulsi Gabbard, and Vivek Ramaswamy. The event highlighted Trump's long-standing support for the UFC and his warm welcome from fans. However, it also underscored the divisiveness of the US presidential campaign, which has been marked by controversy and partisanship."
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgd1p8w4xlo
** Russia launches large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, prompting response from neighboring Poland.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c206l3qgnx2o
** Strong US economic data and inflation indicators have led to reduced expectations for a December rate cut by the Federal Reserve, according to Reuters. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has hinted at a slower pace of interest-rate cuts, while some policymakers remain uncertain about further reductions.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/strong-us-data-weakens-case-for-december-fed-rate-cut-776795
**Undocumented migrants face uncertainty under Trump's immigration plans**
The incoming US administration has vowed to conduct mass deportations, sparking fears among undocumented migrants. While some believe they won't be affected, others live in fear of being swept up in raids and separated from their families.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c79zxjj0j55o
New research reveals India's child stunting crisis is linked to decades-long caste discrimination, making it worse than many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite progress, nearly 36% of Indian children under five are stunted, highlighting the need for targeted nutrition and healthcare interventions.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj9n0420w8go
** UN Climate Talks Face Criticism Over Host Country's Fossil Fuel Ties
The United Nations' COP climate talks have been criticized by key experts, including a former UN secretary general and former UN climate chief, for being "no longer fit for purpose" in addressing the fast-moving climate crisis. The criticism comes after Azerbaijan's president praised natural gas as a "gift from God" during the latest conference, while a senior official was accused of using their role to arrange meetings about potential fossil fuel deals.
The authors of the letter, which includes prominent figures such as Ban-Ki Moon and Christiana Figueres, are concerned about the slow pace of progress at COP talks and the selection process for hosting countries. They argue that host countries must demonstrate a high level of ambition in upholding the goals of the Paris agreement and propose smaller, more frequent COPs with clear accountability.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2lknel1xpo
** Four individuals arrested for allegedly filing false insurance claims, claiming bear damage to luxury cars. The suspects received $141,839 in payments before an investigation revealed a bear costume was used as evidence.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y54dzz4g9o
Delhi's primary schools close due to hazardous air pollution, with levels exceeding 50 times safe limits. Authorities enact measures, but critics argue they are ineffective.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3wqz8xn8jgo
Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of war crimes and ethnic cleansing in Gaza, citing forced displacement of 1.9 million people and destruction of vital resources.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8ygyem84jo
France's Official Dictionary, "Dictionnaire de l'Académie Française", Completes 9th Edition After 40 Years
The French Academy has released its 9th edition of the definitive dictionary after a 40-year effort. The new edition features 21,000 new entries and covers language from the 1950s to present day. However, many modern words are missing, and some included terms are already outdated.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly03ve799go
** Breaking news from Sudan: Death toll rises significantly due to civil war, with over 61,000 people reported dead in Khartoum state. A new study by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine's Sudan Research Group highlights preventable disease and starvation as leading causes of death.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crln9lk51dro
** A historic diamond necklace linked to Marie Antoinette sold for $4.81m at auction, sparking interest in historical jewels with significant provenance. The sale highlights a niche market where buyers value not only the object but also its history and emotional significance.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clygw4l0v7xo
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South African authorities have cut off supplies to an estimated 4,000 illegal gold miners hiding underground. The government aims to "smoke them out" and arrest them, but conditions are dire, with some miners fearing for their lives. Local residents and charity workers are concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding, while police and the army wait to detain those who emerge.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgdzggvgwqo
Hong Kong stocks have experienced their longest losing streak in months, driven by investors' disappointment with China's lackluster stimulus package and the uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's re-election. The Hang Seng Index fell 0.1% to close at 19,823.45, while China's CSI 300 Index rose 0.6%. Analysts attribute the market's weakness to China's failure to address deflationary concerns and the looming threat of US tariffs.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/hong-kong-stocks-cap-longest-losing-streak-in-months-on-poor-stimulus-by-china-776042
Notes by isphere_world | export