China may invest $1 billion to set up medical city in ally Pakistan

A Chinese business delegation has proposed a $1 billion investment to establish Pakistan's first integrated medical city in Karachi's Dhabeji Economic Zone. President Zardari emphasized strengthening economic ties between the two nations, while the delegation expressed interest in various sectors, including agriculture and energy. The Sindh government is committed to facilitating Chinese investments and enhancing cultural connections.

Russian cargo plane departs Syria for Libya, more flights expected, official says

A Russian cargo plane departed from Latakia, Syria, for Libya after the recent overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad. Increased activity at the Hmeimim air base includes additional cargo flights and military equipment movements. Russia, a key ally of Assad, aims to maintain its bases in Syria while engaging with Syrian rebel groups.

Macron's new PM Bayrou faces budget battle with fractious French parliament

New French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, appointed by President Macron, faces significant challenges in addressing France's deficit and political turmoil. With a divided parliament and mixed reactions to his leadership, Bayrou must navigate budget negotiations and potential no-confidence votes. His predecessor's brief tenure highlights the difficulties ahead as France grapples with fiscal issues and political instability.

Unidentified lights in New Jersey skies trigger ‘UFO’ conspiracy theories

Reports of mysterious flying objects over New Jersey have sparked widespread speculation and conspiracy theories, with locals and lawmakers seeking answers. While federal officials suggest these sightings may be misidentified aircraft, many remain unconvinced. A Facebook group dedicated to solving the mystery has rapidly grown, reflecting a deeper unease about the unknown in today's society.

Earthquakes and blowouts undermine case for carbon storage in Texas

Texas is at the forefront of carbon dioxide injection projects aimed at combating climate change, yet activists warn that such practices could lead to increased earthquakes and well blowouts. Despite concerns over safety and environmental risks, companies like Occidental Petroleum are confident in carbon capture technology, supported by government subsidies. Critics call for stricter oversight as permit applications surge.

Ukrainian court jails woman who wrote pro-Moscow reports to 14 years in jail

A Ukrainian court sentenced a woman to 14 years in prison for collaborating with Russian intelligence and writing false reports to justify Russia's invasion. The case highlights Ukraine's ongoing crackdown on collaboration since the February 2022 invasion, with many charged for aiding Russia. The woman, a human rights NGO head, was accused of drafting a letter used by Russia at the UN.

South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol to face second impeachment vote tomorrow

South Korean lawmakers will vote Saturday on impeaching President Yoon Suk Yeol over his controversial martial law declaration, which sparked public protests. The opposition needs 200 votes for the motion to pass, with some ruling party members expressing support. If approved, Yoon will be suspended, pending a Constitutional Court decision, amid rising public discontent and legal scrutiny of his actions.

Russia's Novatek working with lobbyists to thaw US relations, sources say

Novatek, Russia's largest LNG producer, is working with U.S. lobbyists to rebuild relations after sanctions were imposed on its Arctic LNG 2 project following the Ukraine invasion. The company aims to remove the project from the sanctions list, which has led to a suspension of production. Novatek plans to argue its tax status does not fund the war.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to donate $1 million to Donald Trump's inaugural fund

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman plans to donate $1 million to President-Elect Trump's inauguration fund, aiming to strengthen ties with the incoming administration. This follows similar donations from Meta and Amazon. Altman expressed support for Trump's leadership in advancing AI, despite ongoing legal disputes with Elon Musk, a former OpenAI board member and investor.

Argentina's Milei given Italian citizenship during Rome visit, source says

Italy has granted citizenship to Argentina's President Javier Milei due to his Italian ancestry. His visit coincides with a meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The decision has sparked backlash from politicians and social media users, criticizing the ease of Milei's citizenship compared to the challenges faced by migrant families in Italy.

Biden commutes roughly 1,500 sentences and pardons 39 people in biggest single-day act of clemency

President Biden has commuted the sentences of approximately 1,500 individuals and pardoned 39 nonviolent offenders, marking the largest single-day clemency act in modern history. This move, aimed at addressing COVID-19's impact in prisons, follows Biden's broader commitment to criminal justice reform and second chances, with more clemency actions anticipated before he leaves office.

Afghan student nurses crushed as Taliban block last job hope

The Taliban's recent closure of nursing and midwifery schools in Afghanistan has sparked protests among students, who fear it will worsen women's healthcare and limit their future opportunities. Many were near graduation, having invested significant resources in their education. The closures reflect the Taliban's increasing restrictions on women's rights and access to education, raising concerns about the country's healthcare workforce.

Blinken makes unannounced stop in Iraq amid push to stabilise post-Assad Syria

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Iraq, focusing on stabilizing Syria amid regional tensions. Meeting with Iraqi PM Mohammed al-Sudani, Blinken emphasized US commitment to Iraq's security and discussed an inclusive post-Assad transition to prevent IS resurgence. This trip is part of his broader Middle East tour, aiming to unify support among Arab nations.

Brazil's Lula 'cognitively healthy' after cranial operations

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is recovering well after successful surgery for a brain hemorrhage caused by a fall. His doctors reported he is "cognitively healthy" and expected to leave intensive care soon. Lula's medical team emphasized the importance of gradual return to work and rest during his convalescence, raising questions about his potential 2026 re-election bid.

'Syria freed!': Thousands cheer at famed Damascus mosque

Thousands of Syrians celebrated the first Friday prayers since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad at Damascus's Umayyad Mosque, waving opposition flags and chanting joyfully. Families mingled with armed fighters, reminiscing about the 2011 uprising. Rebel leaders called for unity, while citizens expressed hope for a new future free from oppression, highlighting the emotional significance of the moment.