Category: Uncategorized
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How ‘blood gold’ from Africa is funding Russia’s war on Ukraine
The Wagner mercenary group uses gold mining in Africa to fund Russia’s war on Ukraine despite global sanctions, according to a report from the Consumer Choice Center and Democracy 21. The big picture: Wagner has funneled approximately $2.5 billion to Russia since the invasion of Ukraine last year, despite global sanctions aimed at restricting the […]
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Biden orders strike on Iranian-aligned group after 3 U.S. troops injured in Iraq
President Joe Biden has ordered retaliatory strikes against Iranian-backed militia groups following a drone attack in northern Iraq that resulted in three U.S. servicemembers being injured. Immediate response: After the drone attack on Monday, one U.S. troop was critically injured. * The Iranian-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups claimed responsibility for the attack. * […]
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A weekend of combat in Gaza kills 14 Israeli soldiers, in sign of Hamas’ entrenchment
Fourteen Israeli soldiers were killed in combat in the ongoing conflict in Gaza over the past weekend, indicating that Hamas continues to resist despite weeks of devastating warfare. The escalating conflict: The Israeli military reported the deaths of 14 soldiers over the weekend, marking one of the most tragic periods of battle since the ground […]
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Pope Francis mourns the rejection of peace and “futile logic of war” this Christmas
Pope Francis voiced sadness over the rejection of peace and ongoing conflict during his Christmas Mass address in the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Basilica. The central message: The Pope’s heart is with those suffering in Bethlehem, where he noted the good of God is being overshadowed by the conflict in Gaza. * The Pope drew comparisons […]
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At least 68 killed in central Gaza in airstrike, adding to weekend’s bloodshed
An Israeli airstrike on central Gaza has resulted in at least 68 fatalities, adding to the ongoing conflict’s toll, and Israeli soldier fatalities rose to 17 over the weekend. Latest escalation: The targeted location was the Maghazi refugee camp east of Deir al-Balah where the dead and wounded were carried to a nearby hospital. * […]
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Misinformation is becoming more sophisticated in Taiwan
Disinformation efforts in Taiwan are becoming more advances and are often promulgated by domestic platforms. The Scope: The rapid sophistication of misinformation is a rising issue in Taiwan. * The concern is primarily focused on domestic platforms spreading false information. The Outcome: The implications of this trend have far-reaching potential consequences. * The spread of […]
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Pentagon announces new international maritime protection force for the Red Sea
The U.S, along with other nations, has announced the establishment of a new maritime protection force, named Operation Prosperity Guardian, for the Red Sea to guard ships against Houthi attacks from Yemen. The situation: In recent weeks, commercial ships on the Red Sea have suffered attacks by drones and ballistic missiles fired from Houthi-controlled regions […]
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It’s the winter solstice. Here are 5 ways people celebrate the return of light
The winter solstice is celebrated globally as it signifies the return of longer days, with each culture honoring it in its unique way. The Global Picture: The winter solstice marks a time of global celebration and ritual, celebrated differently across various cultures. * The solstice happens when the Earth reaches its maximum tilt away from […]
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How the watermelon became a symbol of Palestinian resistance
The watermelon has emerged as a symbol of Palestinian resistance and solidarity, particularly throughout the continued Israel-Hamas conflict. Background: For a long time, the watermelon has stood as a symbol of Palestinian resistance and solidarity. * Recently, this symbolic use has seen a resurgence. Current trends: This resurgence has largely happened on social media amid […]
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Number of journalists killed in Gaza since Oct. 7 attacks called unprecedented loss
Since the attacks that started on October 7th, an unprecedented number of 64 journalists have been killed in Gaza. The big picture: NPR discussed with the president of the nonprofit Committee to Protect Journalists about the significant loss of journalists in Gaza. * The recorded conversation will be available for public access later. By the […]