Author: NewTrendsTimes
Halt illegal imports of conflict minerals from DRC, campaigners urge EU
Law to stop armed groups profiting from trade in gold, tin, tungsten and tantalum is being breached, rights groups say The European Union has been urged to clamp down on illegal imports of conflict minerals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) after evidence was found that current regulations had been breached. The advocacy…
Biden to remove Cuba from list of state sponsors of terrorism
Deal negotiated through Catholic church will involve ‘gradual’ release of 553 political prisoners, says Havana The Biden administration has notified Congress that it will remove Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism in a deal the country’s communist government said would involve the “gradual” release of 553 political prisoners. The deal, which administration…
Venn Diagrams’ History and Popularity Outside of Math Explained
Opinion The Curious History of Venn Diagrams By Jack Murtagh edited by Jeanna Bryner In his book The Mathematical Universe, mathematician William Dunham wrote of John Venn’s namesake legacy, the Venn diagram, “No one in the long history of mathematics ever became better known for less.” While Venn diagrams may not have solved any long-standing…
South Korean law enforcement officers detain impeached President Yoon
By The Associated Press SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean law enforcement officials on Wednesday detained impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his brief imposition of martial law last month. In a video message recorded before he was escorted to the headquarters of an anti-corruption agency, Yoon lamented that the “rule of law has…
The British Public Dislikes Elon Musk. He Can Still Sway Politics.
His influence is partly the result of a very online political establishment, and partly thanks to a right-leaning media that is hostile to Keir Starmer’s Labour government. By Mark Landler Reporting from London He is a deeply unpopular figure in Britain, according to opinion polls, and his social media channel has lost users in the…
Julia Stiles Details Bond With Heath Ledger 26 Years Later
Julia Stiles exclusively told E! News what it was like working with the late Heath Ledger while filming 10 Things I Hate About You, saying he was “such a bright light” on set of the 1998 teen comedy. Julia Stiles is sharing 10 things she loves about the late Heath Ledger. The Save the Last Dance…
Chris Mason: Political heat map flashes red over Treasury
If you were to produce a political heat map of the government right now, there is one big bit that would be bright red, and probably flashing: the Treasury. Firstly, there have been all of the headlines about the now former Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Tulip Siddiq. For all of the complexities and subtleties…
50,000 Scientists Urge Congress to Protect Research from Trump
50,000 Scientists Urge Congress to Protect Research from Trump Two open letters from scientists and science advocacy groups reflect a growing anxiety about the future of federal science under President-elect Trump By Chelsea Harvey & E&E News President-elect Donald Trump is greeted by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on stage during a campaign event at Desert…
The FDA calls for at-a-glance nutrition labels on the front of packaged foods
Maria Godoy The Food and Drug Administration wants to change how packaged food is sold in the U.S. In the waning days of the Biden administration, the agency has proposed requiring a new label on the front of most packaged food and drinks aimed at helping Americans make healthier food choices. The proposed labels would…
News spotlight: A quarter of freshwater species face extinction, study finds
A new study is ringing alarm bells for freshwater species, finding nearly a quarter are at risk of extinction. The study, from researchers at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), named dams, farms, invasive species and pollution as responsible for the decline, Julia Jacobo reported for ABC News. The findings are “alarming,”…
Canada’s provincial leaders in disarray over response to Trump tariff threats
Responses range from conciliation to retaliation, including cutting off electricity and halting the purchase of US liquor Canada’s provincial premiers are sharply divided on how to prepare for US trade tariffs, less than a week before Donald Trump takes office with a threat to dramatically reshape the relationship between the two countries. Canadian officials have…
South Korean Investigators Try Again to Detain President Yoon at His Residence
South Korea Turmoil South Korea Turmoil South Korea Turmoil More forces are expected to join the operation to take Yoon Suk Yeol in for questioning after the last attempt was foiled by his large security team. By Choe Sang-Hun and Victoria Kim Choe Sang-Hun reported from Seoul. Criminal investigators armed with a court-issued warrant began a second, much-anticipated…
Tulip Siddiq resigns as Treasury minister
Treasury minister Tulip Siddiq has resigned after growing pressure over an anti-corruption investigation in Bangladesh. She had referred herself to the prime minister’s standards adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus, after questions about links to her aunt, who was ousted last year as Bangladesh’s prime minister. Sir Laurie said he had “not identified evidence of improprieties” but…
Ellen DeGeneres Debuts Gray Hair Transformation After Return From U.K.
Ellen DeGeneres stepped out in Los Angeles without her signature blonde pixie cut months after her reported move to the United Kingdom with wife Portia de Rossi. Ellen DeGeneres is back on her old stomping grounds. Two months after making headlines with her and wife Portia de Rossi‘s reported move to England, the former talk…
After Los Angeles Fires, Drinking Water Safety Is at Risk
Wildfires May Be Contaminating Los Angeles Water with Harmful Chemicals Fires can make drinking water, pipes and tanks unsafe. An environmental engineer explains why that’s so and what to do By Andrew J. Whelton & The Conversation US Water runs from a pipe where a home once stood, destroyed by the Palisades Fire, on January…
Reeves vows action on growth amid rising debt costs
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has pledged to go “further and faster” to improve economic growth after market turbulence saw the cost of servicing UK debt rise. The last few days have seen pressures on the public finances increase, after government borrowing costs hit their highest level for several years. Conservative shadow chancellor Mel Stride called it…
Bodies recovered from illegal goldmine in South Africa where many feared dead
Fifteen bodies brought to surface amid claims 109 are dead and between 400 and 800 people still alive and trapped Fifteen bodies have been brought out of an illegal goldmine in South Africa and 44 people have been taken out alive since Monday, after police blocked supplies of food, water and medicine to the workers…
Israel and Hamas Near Agreement on Cease-Fire Deal, Qatar Says
Middle East Crisis Middle East Crisis Middle East Crisis The negotiations, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, appear to be making progress after months of failed attempts to achieve a breakthrough. By Adam RasgonAaron BoxermanIsabel Kershner and Ismaeel Naar Israel and Hamas appeared close to an agreement to declare a cease-fire in Gaza…
Special counsel defends Trump indictment in report. And, Israel-Hamas ceasefire nears
By Brittney Melton here to get it delivered to your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for all the news you need to start your day. The Department of Justice released today its election interference report against President-elect Donald Trump. Although special counsel Jack Smith won’t record a criminal conviction against Trump, the report asserts…
Christina Haack’s Ex Josh Hall Goes IG Official With New Girlfriend
Amid his ongoing divorce with Flip Off costar Christina Haack, Josh Hall made his new relationship with model Stephanie Gabrys Instagram official. Josh Hall officially hard-launched his new relationship. Amid his ongoing divorce with ex Christina Haack, the 44-year-old made his new romance with girlfriend Stephanie Gabrys Instagram official with a short birthday tribute.…
Los Angeles Firefighters Risk Cancer from Urban Smoke
Los Angeles Firefighters Risk Cancer from Urban Smoke Wildfires are storming into urban areas more frequently, and toxins in homes and cars are increasing cancer risk for firefighters By Ariel Wittenberg & E&E News A firefighter battles a house fire along PCH as the Palisades Fire burns in Malibu Wednesday. CLIMATEWIRE | Firefighter Matt Alba…
A tortoise survival tale: How Tiptoe escaped Southern California’s wildfires
Alina Hartounian This is a developing story. For the latest local updates head to LAist.com and sign up for breaking news alerts. Dark gray smoke puffed into the sky behind him as Tiptoe the African sulcata tortoise crunched on the green lawn beneath him. Flames were visible down the street, cars sped past, and Tiptoe’s owner, Caitlin Doran,…
A New Age of American Interference in Europe
Elon Musk and MAGA are already disrupting the status quo, and Europe seems ill-prepared. By Katrin Bennhold For the last decade or more, Europe’s governments have been trying to resist covert influence operations from adversaries like Russia and China. Now they have a very different challenge: Fending off overt efforts by Elon Musk and Donald…
Jessica Simpson & Eric Johnson’s Sweetest Family Moments Before Split
Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson have broken up after 10 years of marriage, but in that time, they shared a lifetime of memories. Here is a roundup of the former couple’s sweetest family moments. Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson‘s life together had a little bit of everything. Yet after months of speculation, Jessica confirmed…
Trapped in the dark for 35 hours – Red Sea dive-boat survivors tell of terrifying escapes
“By the end, I was just wondering how I would prefer to die.” Spending 35 hours trapped in a pitch-black air pocket in the upturned hull of a boat has taken its toll on Lucianna Galetta, her voice cracking as she recounts her ordeal. A video she managed to film briefly using the light on…
Man in Brazil wrongly charged for 62 crimes after police use flawed photo ID
Police relied on showing photo of Paulo Alberto da Silva Costa, wrongly jailed for years, to victims to identify him as an alleged perpetrator Paulo Alberto da Silva Costa was having a regular day at work as a doorman in Rio de Janeiro when he was arrested in 2020. It was only then that he…
Djimon Hounsou Says He’s “Struggling” With Money Despite Long Career
Gladiator actor Djimon Hounsou said he’s”struggling financially to make a living” despite having been nominated for two Oscars: “I’m definitely underpaid.” Djimon Hounsou is getting candid about his finances as a working actor. “I’ve been in this business and making films now over two decades,” he told CNN‘s Larry Madowo in a recent interview. “And…
Why Urban Wildfires like L.A.’s Release Such Toxic Smoke
What Makes Urban Wildfire Smoke So Toxic Wildfires burning in cities unleash a toxic, unpredictable combination of compounds into the air By Allison Parshall edited by Dean Visser Smoke over destroyed homes in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, US, on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025. Firefighters are making some progress on controlling…
LA braces for stronger winds as fires continue to burn
Los Angeles residents are bracing for further destruction as weather forecasts indicate that winds helping fuel the flames might pick up again. Three fires continue to blaze. The largest, the Palisades Fire, has burned more than 23,000 acres and remained at 14% contained as of Monday evening. LA Mayor Karen Bass said “urgent preparations” are…
South Africa launches operation at illegal gold mine amid fears many dead
Phone video shared by mining NGO appears to show dozens of wrapped bodies in underground tunnel The South African government has launched a mission to bring to the surface potentially hundreds of people in an illegal mine who last year had supplies of food, water and medicine blocked by police in an attempt to force…
Russia and Ukraine Battle Inside Kursk, With Waves of Tanks, Drones and North Koreans
Russia-Ukraine War Russia-Ukraine War Russia-Ukraine War Ukrainian soldiers are describing fierce clashes as Russian forces try to retake territory in the Kursk region that could be key in eventual cease-fire talks. A destroyed Ukrainian tank on Thursday a few miles from the border with Russia’s Kursk region. By Marc Santora and Liubov Sholudko Photographs by…
Special counsel in Hunter Biden case denounces president for criticism of the probe
By NPR Washington Desk The Department of Justice on Monday released special counsel David Weiss’ final report after his investigation of criminal allegations against President Biden’s son Hunter Biden. Biden last month signed a full and unconditional pardon for his son, after earlier promising not to do so, saying “raw politics has infected this process…
Gaza ceasefire deal being finalised, Palestinian official tells BBC
The terms of a deal between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages are being finalised, a Palestinian official familiar with the negotiations has told the BBC. It comes as US President Joe Biden said a deal was “on the brink” of coming to fruition, and that his administration…
Destructive Los Angeles Fires Explained in Photos
Photos Show Why Los Angeles Fires Were the Worst in City’s History The ferocity and scale of the fires that tore through the Los Angeles area become clearer in photographs By Andrea Thompson & Amanda Stosz A home on Mariposa Street in Altadena, Calif., goes up in flames during the Eaton Fire on January 8.…
Starmer has ‘full confidence’ in Reeves as pound falls
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he has “full confidence” in Chancellor Rachel Reeves as she faces criticism over the falling pound and rising government borrowing costs. The pound fell to $1.21 on Monday, its lowest level since November 2023, while one measure of the rate at which the government can borrow money hit…
What an Upended Mideast Means for Trump and U.S. Gulf Allies
Middle East Crisis While major ruptures are not expected, Gulf states are urging a tougher stance on Israel and a softening toward Iran, positions that differ greatly from the president-elect’s first term. By Ismaeel Naar Reporting from Manama, Bahrain, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates When Donald J. Trump was last president of the United States,…
As dangerous winds are expected to pick up, Los Angeles braces for new fires
By Chandelis Duster This is a developing story. For the latest local updates head to LAist.com and sign up for breaking news alerts. More strong winds are expected across Los Angeles and Ventura counties over the next few days that will create dangerous conditions as multiple blazes continue to burn across the fire-torn areas. The…
Climate Opportunities in Greenland May Be Part of Trump’s Interest
Why Does Greenland Interest Trump? Climate Change Is Only Part of the Story Arctic shipping routes and burgeoning mining opportunities may be part of Greenland’s appeal to President-elect Donald Trump, but each comes with challenges as well By Meghan Bartels edited by Jeanna Bryner Container ship navigating among icebergs in the harbor of Narsaq, Southern…
South Korea’s impeached president gets a pay rise while still resisting arrest
Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed coup attempt in December plunged country into worst political crisis in decades The impeached South Korean president, Yoon Suk Yeol, will receive a pay rise, official documents revealed, as he continues to resist arrest over his ill-fated martial law declaration. Yoon suspended civilian rule on 3 December, sending soldiers into parliament…
Sutton Stracke Makes Shocking Remark About Kyle Richards’ Marriage
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills‘ Sutton Stracke confronts Kyle Richards about alleged “infidelity” in her marriage to estranged husband Mauricio Umansky in shocking sneak peek. Sutton Stracke is known for naming ’em, just not always at the right time and place. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star awkwardly puts her foot in her…
Simply the Best 25 Schitt’s Creek Secrets Revealed
Yes, David. Schitt’s Creek premiered 10 years ago. After you fold in the cheese, check out these facts about the Eugene Levy and Dan Levy series that is better than all the rest. Ew, David, can you believe it’s been nearly 10 years since we paid our first visit to Schitt’s Creek? The beloved Pop…
Weird weather isn’t always because of climate change — but sometimes it is
By Alejandra Borunda 2025 started off with a flurry of intense weather. Southern California experienced bursts of 100-mph winds that spread record-breaking destructive wildfires. Major winter storms have dumped snow and cold weather on the Mid-Atlantic and the South. And in the midst of the weather news, scientists from major meteorological associations around the world…
Israeli Security Chiefs Join Critical Talks for a Cease-Fire in Gaza
Middle East Crisis Pressure is on to reach a deal that would see Hamas release at least some hostages before President-elect Donald J. Trump takes office. By Isabel KershnerAdam Rasgon and Ronen Bergman Isabel Kershner and Adam Rasgon reported from Jerusalem, and Ronen Bergman from New York. Israeli security and policy chiefs arrived in Qatar…
Cyclone Dikeledi kills three in Madagascar, and Mayotte is hit again
Tropical storm batters eastern parts of Africa, including French territory still recovering from Cyclone Chido Over the weekend, eastern parts of Africa were threatened by Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi. What started as a slight tropical disturbance between Indonesia and Australia on 2 January progressed westwards while developing into a depression over the week that followed. The…
‘I feel blessed to get weight-loss jab’ – but can the NHS afford it for all?
Ray, 62 from south London, became one of the first patients to receive the weight-loss jab Wegovy on the NHS last year and has lost 14kg (just over two stone) in five months. BBC Panorama joined him as he was prescribed his first dose at London’s Guy’s Hospital, where he was told he would probably…
Italy releases Iranian man wanted by U.S. over drone attack that killed 3 soldiers
By Rebecca Rosman Italy on Sunday released an Iranian businessman detained last month over his alleged involvement in a drone attack that killed three American service members and wounded dozens more. Mohammad Abedini, 38, was arrested in Milan in December on a warrant and extradition request made by the U.S. Department of Justice. The U.S.…
Syria Faces Big Challenge in Seeking Justice for Assad Regime Crimes
Syria’s Civil War The rebel alliance that took power has vowed to prosecute senior figures from the ousted government, but accountability will be hard to achieve in a vulnerable, divided and battered country. By Vivian Yee Reporting from Cairo There seem to be no limits to the dark revelations laid bare by the downfall of…
Court ruling on Belgium’s conduct in colonial Africa hailed as turning point
Verdict of crimes against humanity for kidnap of mixed-race children could pave way for wider justice, activists say A historic court ruling that found Belgium guilty of crimes against humanity during its colonial rule of central Africa has been hailed as a turning point that could pave the way for compensation and other forms of…
Sister Wives’ Kody Refuses to Do This to Fix Relationship With Kids
Though Sister Wives star Kody Brown still has hope of repairing his relationships with many of his adult children, he revealed on the TLC series’ Jan. 12 episode that he has one dealbreaker. Sister Wives patriarch Kody Brown would do anything for the love of his kids. But he won’t do that. As in, he…
LA fires death toll rises to 24 as high winds expected
Weather forecasters in California are warning fierce winds which fuelled the infernos around Los Angeles are expected to pick up again this week, as fire crews on the ground race to make progress controlling three wildfires. Officials warned that after a weekend of relatively calm winds, the notoriously dry Santa Ana winds would pick up…
Landlords ripping off LA fire victims, says Selling Sunset star
Landlords have been illegally raising prices due to the Los Angeles wildfires, says Selling Sunset star Jason Oppenheim. The LA property mogul, who owns the luxury real estate brokerage at the centre of the Netflix reality show, said one client had been asked for thousands over the original asking price to rent a home –…
Somalia and Ethiopia agree to restore diplomatic ties after year-long rift
Somalia severed relations over sea access agreement Ethiopia signed with separatist region of Somaliland Somalia and Ethiopia have agreed to restore diplomatic representation in their respective capitals, more than a year after Somalia severed ties over a sea access agreement landlocked Ethiopia signed with the separatist northern Somali region of Somaliland. In a joint statement…
A French Cathedral Turned to Hams to Restore Its Organ
A dispute over a project to cure hams in a bell tower underscored the difficulties that churches in France face trying to pay for restorations. A dispute over a project to cure hams in a bell tower underscored the difficulties that churches in France face trying to pay for restorations. A view of the cathedral…
Off-duty officer hit by lorry and killed after stopping to help
An off-duty police officer has died after she was struck by a lorry while helping at the scene of an earlier crash. PC Rosie Prior, 45, had stopped to help Ryan Welford, 41, from Knaresborough, and was standing on the verge of the A19 at Bagby in North Yorkshire, when they were hit by a…
Spencer Pratt Defends Mandy Moore Amid LA Fire Fundraiser Criticism
After Mandy Moore faced backlash for posting a fundraiser for her relatives who lost their home in the Los Angeles wildfires, the Hills alum Spencer Pratt defended the actress from her critics. Mandy Moore is getting support from fellow Los Angeles residents, including Spencer Pratt. The This Is Us alum, whose home was impacted by…
Southern California wildfires destroy or damage many houses of worship
By Jason DeRose , Sarah Ventre A cantor at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels led the congregation in a haunting refrain during a special Mass this week for victims and first responders of the Los Angeles wildfires: “Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.” The fires in Los Angeles County continue…
Logging in forest earmarked for koala national park increasing under NSW Labor, analysis finds
Sign up for Guardian Australia’s breaking news email “We were promised a world-class national park. That’s been reiterated many times since. We just want that to be done and the degradation to stop.” Conservationists have become frustrated by the time it is taking the Minns government to fulfil its election promise, finalise an assessment of…
Italian Justice Ministry Moves to Release Iranian Man Sought by the U.S.
The request to revoke the man’s arrest came only days after Iran released an Italian journalist being held in Tehran. By Emma Bubola Reporting from Rome Italy’s justice minister has requested the revocation of the arrest of an Iranian man sought by the United States for allegedly providing material used in a drone attack that…
People are rushing to install solar panels before Trump becomes President
Jeff Brady The solar power industry is growing fast, accounting for more than half of all new electricity on the grid last year. But soon President-elect Trump and fellow Republicans in Congress may try to reduce or eliminate government incentives that have driven much of that growth. Solar installers face even more uncertainty with threats…
This Part of Mozambique Was Like Paradise. Now It’s a Terrorist Hotbed.
In a region of southern Africa known for its lush forests and emerald waters … attacks by Islamic State militants have raged for years. The fighting has killed thousands, robbed young men of limbs, forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee to temporary shelter, and made widows cover tears with their veils. In October,…
Yoon Suk Yeol to miss start of South Korea impeachment trial on safety grounds
Lawyer for suspended president says concerns about ‘potential incidents’ have arisen following thwarted attempt to arrest him at his residence South Korea’s suspended president, Yoon Suk Yeol, will not attend the first hearing of his impeachment trial next week because of safety concerns, his lawyer has said. Yoon has been holed up in the presidential…
‘Everything is gone’ – Agony on a tight-knit LA street razed by inferno
Professional chef Daron Anderson always tells people he was “born in the kitchen” – quite literally. The 45-year-old was delivered by homebirth at 295 West Las Flores Drive, where he lived with his mother until this week. On Thursday, he stepped over charred debris where his kitchen once stood in Altadena, a tight-knit neighbourhood of…
Sam Moore, Vocalist in American Soul Group Sam & Dave, Dead at 89
Sam Moore, who made up R&B group Sam & Dave alongside Dave Prater, died Jan. 10, his wife and manager Joyce Moore confirmed. He was 89. Fans of an iconic soul duo are mourning the loss of a R&B legend. Sam Moore, who made up one half of American soul group Sam & Dave alongside…
As winds pick up, LA firefighters desperately battle to contain monster inferno
Firefighters are making an all-out assault to prevent the largest of the deadly wildfires that is threatening Los Angeles from spreading into one of the city’s most exclusive neighbourhoods. Aerial crews have been bombarding the flaming hills with water and fire retardant to hold back the Palisades fire, which has expanded an additional 1,000 acres…
Sudan’s Military Recaptures Key City From Paramilitary Accused of Genocide
Sudan’s Civil War Celebrations erupted in military-controlled areas, stoking hopes the victory might be a turning point in Sudan’s ruinous civil war. By Declan Walsh The Sudanese military recaptured a key city in Sudan’s breadbasket region on Saturday, chasing out a paramilitary group that the United States accused last week of genocide. Sudan’s information minister…
Biden awards Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction
Juliana Kim President Biden awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, to Pope Francis on Saturday. The honor specifically came “with distinction,” becoming the first person to receive the added level of honor by Biden. In a statement, the White House commended Pope Francis for his commitment to serving the poor,…
More than 100 famous works by Australian authors rescued from oblivion by literary heritage endeavour
Three-year project returns out-of-print classics – including six Miles Franklin winners – to circulation and into ebook format for the first time More than 160 books by noted Australian authors have been rescued from oblivion, including six winners of the Miles Franklin literary award. The three-year project, which culminated at the end of last year,…
PM should sack Siddiq over corruption claims, Badenoch says
Kemi Badenoch has called for the PM to sack Treasury Minister, Tulip Siddiq, after she was named in an investigation into claims her family embezzled up to £3.9bn from infrastructure spending in Bangladesh. It follows comments from Bangladesh’s new leader, Muhammad Yunus, who told the Sunday Times Siddiq should apologise after reports she had lived…
Why Tom Holland’s Dad Doesn’t Fear Spotlight Amid Zendaya Relationship
After Tom Holland’s dad Dominic Holland confirmed the Spider-Man star’s engagement to Zendaya, he detailed why he no longer worries about their relationship being a fixture in the public eye. Tom Holland and Zendaya can handle the limelight. At this point, the Spider-Man actor’s dad Dominic Holland is sure of it. After the couple’s engagement…
USDA report finds Boar’s Head listeria outbreak was due to poor sanitation practices
Clare Marie Schneider A U.S. Department of Agriculture report has found that “inadequate sanitation practices” at a Boar’s Head facility in Virginia contributed to a listeria outbreak that left 10 people dead and dozens hospitalized around the country last year. The report, released Friday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service…
Reeves’ drive for growth seeks China lifeline after UK market turmoil
Chancellor’s mission to Beijing weighted with greater expectations Rachel Reeves hailed a new era of “respectful and consistent future relations with China” as pressure grew on the embattled chancellor to deliver on her government’s central promise to fire up UK economic growth. After meeting China’s vice-premier, He Lifeng, in Beijing, Reeves said Britain’s relationship with…
Syrian man died trying to cross Channel to UK on leaky dinghy, say French authorities
Man in his 20s, first such migrant fatality of 2025, suffered cardiac arrest reportedly as result of being crushed A young Syrian man died while trying to cross the Channel to Britain, the French authorities said. It is the first reported death at sea of a migrant seeking to travel to Britain from France so…
‘I don’t like this Musk chap’: Reform members say they’re unbothered by spat
Even by the standards of the Reform UK party, it has been an interesting few weeks. In December, its leader Nigel Farage flew to Florida to meet Elon Musk, the multi-billionaire, where they discussed a possible donation. On Boxing Day, it announced its membership figures had surpassed those of the Conservatives. There was then a…
As fires in Los Angeles rage, an already-hurting Hollywood presses pause
Mandalit del Barco This is a developing story. For the latest local updates head to LAist.com and sign up for breaking news alerts. The wildfires that have devastated huge swaths of Southern California have also disrupted the industry that makes the region famous: Hollywood. Many well-known performers have reported that the wind-whipped flames destroyed their homes. And just…
Sudan’s army recaptures Wad Madani from rebel Rapid Support Forces
Strategic city fell into control of RSF, which has been accused of genocide by the US, in December 2023 Sudan’s military and its allies have taken back a strategic city from the rebel Rapid Support Forces, officials said. The recapture of the city of Wad Madani, the capital of Gezira province, took place more than…
In a bitter fight for the Minnesota Legislature, Democrats have threatened a walkout
By Dana Ferguson St. PAUL — The Minnesota Legislature is preparing for a turbulent opening on Tuesday with House Democrats threatening to walk out and the Senate set to come in with a temporary tie and no tiebreaker. A boycott would deprive the GOP of votes needed to take control of the House ahead of…
Search for missing Aberdeen sisters widens to coast
The search for two sisters reported missing in Aberdeen has been extended to the coast, police said. Eliza and Henrietta Huszti – who are part of a set of triplets – were last seen in Market Street at Victoria Bridge at about 02:12 on Tuesday. A land search will also be carried out on Saturday…
Reading Aloud
Reading alone is a deeply enjoyable activity. But being read to has its own irreplaceable allure. By Melissa Kirsch The Harvard Sentences are hundreds of sentences that have been used for many decades to test technologies in which understanding speech is essential, like telephone systems and hearing aids. I came across the list recently and…
Simple Favor Director Addresses Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick Feud Rumor
A Simple Favor 2 director Paul Feig slammed rumors that tensions between Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick had forced Amazon to indefinitely shelve the movie. Paul Feig asks you do yourself a simple favor and don’t believe everything you see on the Internet. The director slammed speculation that A Simple Favor 2 starring Blake Lively…
Inside Kristin Cavallari’s Eventful Dating History
Kristin Cavallari, who shares three kids with ex-husband Jay Cutler, said she’s dating again after breaking up with Mark Estes. Brush up on her robust romantic history leading up to her latest suitor. Kristin Cavallari knows that, if you’re looking for the right fit, you’ve got to try it on first. And, if it’s uncomfortable,…
Ukraine says it captured two injured North Korean soldiers in Russia
Two wounded North Korean soldiers have been captured as prisoners of war by Ukrainian troops in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday. The two men are receiving “necessary medical assistance” and are in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in Kyiv, according to Zelensky. The president said he was…
Far From the Fires, the Deadly Risks of Smoke Are Intensifying
Researchers see a growing health danger from the vast plumes of pollution spawned by wildfires like the ones devastating Los Angeles. By Hiroko Tabuchi It kills more people each year than car crashes, war or drugs do. This invisible killer is the air pollution from sources like cars and trucks or factory smokestacks. But as…
White House working on hostage release deal in Gaza before Trump’s inauguration, says CIA director
William Burns said talks between Hamas and Israel are serious and could lead to deal in next couple of weeks The White House is working to reach a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas before president-elect Trump’s inauguration, William Burns, the director of the CIA, has suggested. “Negotiations going on right now are quite serious…
Why are so many indigenous Panamanians contracting HIV — and dying of AIDS?
By Adam Williams Joti’s family refuses to touch him. They don’t hug him or shake his hand, and when he visits relatives to eat, he brings his own plate, spoon and cup. His family won’t share utensils with him, as they fear being infected with the virus he carries, HIV. NPR agreed to only identify…
Protesters in Calais condemn UK policies to stop Channel crossings
Alliance of groups from across France call for measures to make crossings safer after 77 deaths recorded in 2024 More than 70 organisations from across France willcome together on Saturday to protest in Calais about UK policies to try to stop people crossing the Channel. At least 77 people died trying to cross the Channel…
Former Child Star Killed In L.A. Fires After Mom Tried to Save Him
Amid the Los Angeles wildfires, Rory Callum Sykes—a child actor born blind and with cerebral palsy—died at age 32 after mom Shelley Sykes was unable to contact 911 and put out the fire herself. The Los Angeles wildfires continue to cause devastation across California. Former child actor Rory Callum Sykes is among the growing list…
Molly Russell’s dad warns UK ‘going backwards’ on online safety and urges PM to act
The father of Molly Russell, the teenager who took her own life after seeing harmful content online, has personally appealed to the prime minister to tighten rules that protect children and has warned the UK is “going backwards” on internet safety. Ian Russell, who backed the previous government bringing in new requirements for tech firms…
Ukraine Says It Captured 2 North Korean Soldiers Fighting for Russia
Russia-Ukraine War President Volodymyr Zelensky said the soldiers were captured in the western Kursk region, where Ukraine has been fighting to hold on to territory it seized last summer. By Cassandra Vinograd Reporting from Kyiv, Ukraine The Ukrainian authorities on Saturday announced the capture of two North Korean soldiers in Russia, saying they were the…
‘He brought us back alive’: A former hostage remembers Jimmy Carter
By Ari Shapiro , Elena Burnett , Courtney Dorning Former President Jimmy Carter left Washington for the final time Thursday afternoon. The nation’s capital was never a comfortable place for the man from Plains, Georgia, and it’s generally believed that Carter was a better former president than president. One reason for that perception is the…
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Meets With Syrian Leader
Middle East Crisis The visit by Prime Minister Najib Mikati was the first official trip by the Lebanese leader to meet with the new government of Syria. By Aaron Boxerman The Lebanese prime minister on Saturday headed to the Syrian capital, Damascus, for the first official visit to meet with the new government there, after…
Venezuelan opposition candidate accuses Nicolás Maduro of coup
Edmundo González, widely believed to have won July election, gives address after autocrat sworn in for third term The man widely believed to be the real victor of last year’s presidential election in Venezuela has accused Nicolás Maduro of staging a coup and “crowning himself dictator” after the South American autocrat claimed another six years…
Opinion: When Jimmy Carter and I spoke about UFOs
Scott Simon I have a story I can tell now about an off-the-record conversation I once had with the late Jimmy Carter, about one of the great human controversies: UFOs. Back in what my daughters now call the “late 1900s” we did a story on a support group at a New York hospital, for people…
Inside Aubrey Plaza’s Love Story With Late Husband Jeff Baena
Aubrey Plaza called the sudden death of her husband Jeff Baena an “unimaginable tragedy.” Look back at the actress and filmmaker’s love story. Aubrey Plaza and Jeff Baena were collaborators—both in their onscreen work and in their life together off-camera. But on Jan. 3, the actress’s filmmaker husband died by suicide at the age 47,…
Katie Piper gets ‘artificial eye’ after acid attack
Katie Piper has decided to get an “artificial eye” more than 16 years after an acid attack which left her with serious injuries and permanent scarring. The TV presenter shared the news on Instagram, saying it follows “many years of battling” with her health. “I’ve reached the end of [the] road somewhat, and the decision…
Lynx dies after being captured in Cairngorms
The wild cat was one of four, released illegally, which were caught near Kingussie in the Highlands in recent days. The animals were humanely captured in pairs in the Dell of Killiehuntly area and taken to the Highland Wildlife Park. The RZSS said they would have been under great stress after being abandoned in a…
Jeju Air Flight Recorder Stopped Working 4 Minutes Before Plane Crash
South Korea Plane Crash The missing data deepens the puzzle of what caused the deadly air disaster in Muan, South Korea, late last month. By Choe Sang-Hun Reporting from Seoul The flight recorder of the Jeju Air passenger jet that crashed last month, killing 179 people, stopped recording for its last four minutes, South Korean…
A Timeline of Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s Legal Battle
With It Ends With Us costars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni locked in a legal battle, we broke down what to know about her lawsuit against him and Wayfarer Studios and his against The New York Times. Perhaps ironically, it doesn’t appear as if the legal battle between It Ends With Us costars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni will be…
When the power goes out, health risks rise
Maria Godoy Tens of thousands of people are currently without power in California, Texas and Arkansas, as wildfires ravage the West and a winter storm hits the South. Research shows when the power fails, it also raises the risk of a host of health concerns — from gastrointestinal illness to heart attacks and even burns.…
Is Trump’s rhetoric on Greenland, Canada and Panama Canal a ‘Madman Strategy’?
By Scott Neuman President-elect Donald Trump, who is days away from taking office, has wasted no time in returning to center stage in U.S. foreign policy, reprising his hallmark blend of bombastic rhetoric and threats that keep both friend and foe guessing. His undiplomatic talk in recent days of reclaiming the Panama Canal — and…
8 Best Winter Fashion Trends on Amazon Our Editors Are Wearing in 2025
From denim on denim to chunky loafers, this trendy lineup is making winter dressing anything but boring (trust). E! may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Learn more. After sifting through Amazon’s latest and greatest for hours every week, I’ve seen it all—and these eight winter trends are undeniably the ones to…