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Sir Keir Starmer is pushing for long-term growth in the UK’s nuclear sector, visiting the National Nuclear Laboratory in Preston. Despite the enthusiasm of nuclear scientists for carbon-free energy and potential cancer treatments, critics remain concerned about safety, cost, and nuclear waste. The UK’s nuclear capacity has declined since its pioneering start, with the last plant opening 30 years ago. Starmer is frustrated by this decline, but faces challenges from sceptics and the lengthy timelines of nuclear projects, which often clash with political cycles.

The Baltic countries—Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—are preparing for potential sabotage and cyberattacks as they disconnect from Russia’s “BRELL” power grid, transitioning to the European system. This move aims to enhance energy independence and security, breaking post-Soviet ties. Estonia’s Cyber Security Centre is collaborating with neighbors to mitigate risks, though experts consider serious issues unlikely. Estonia’s Elering emphasizes readiness and minimal consumer impact, despite potential Russian retaliation. The transition is seen as a significant, complex energy undertaking.

Russia is countering a new Ukrainian offensive in Kursk, while Ukraine offers a humanitarian corridor for civilians. President Putin acknowledged the difficult situation, and Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy praised his troops, emphasizing “peace through strength.” Ukraine accused Moscow of indifference to its citizens, while Russia claimed to be aiding them. Ukraine received French Mirage 2000 and Dutch F-16 fighter jets, enhancing its military capabilities. Ukrainian forces also targeted a Russian airfield used for launching drones, causing a fire.

In Ă–rebro, Sweden, a gunman connected to an adult education center killed 10 people in the country’s worst mass shooting. The shooter, possibly a former student, was found dead with three guns and unused ammunition. Police did not return fire. The attack occurred at Campus Risbergska, which offers various educational programs. Officers described the chaotic scene as an “inferno,” with multiple casualties. Five victims, all over 18, suffered serious gunshot wounds; two remain in intensive care. A sixth person had minor injuries.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio seized a second Venezuelan government plane, a Dassault Falcon 200EX, under US sanctions. This follows a similar September seizure. Both planes, used by high-level Venezuelan officials, provide intelligence on Venezuela’s Air Force. The aircraft, purchased by PDVSA in 2017, violated US export laws. The plane, held in Santo Domingo since April 2024, will be moved to Miami. The seizures highlight ongoing US-Venezuela tensions. CNN has sought comment from the Venezuelan government.

Anastasia, a Ukrainian combat medic with no prior military or medical experience, was unexpectedly transferred to a frontline position near Kurakhove. Her documents were allegedly forged, but military officials deny this. Her story highlights Ukraine’s struggle to fill personnel shortages amid Russia’s advance. Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief ordered the transfer of 5,000 air force personnel to ground forces, raising concerns about losing specialists. The issue has caught Washington’s attention, with concerns about Ukraine’s dwindling manpower.

Carlos Javier Vega, 19, was killed by navy troopers in Guayaquil, Ecuador, after an altercation at a military checkpoint. The government labeled Vega and his cousin as “terrorists,” but the public prosecutor cleared them of wrongdoing. Vega’s death highlights human rights violations under President Daniel Noboa’s “iron fist” policy against crime. Noboa, Ecuador’s youngest president, faces scrutiny as Ecuadorians vote in the presidential election. His tenure has been marked by radicalization against human rights and issues like an energy crisis, which may impact the election outcome.

Israel is preparing for the departure of Palestinians from Gaza, despite international rejection of Trump’s plan to empty the territory. Egypt and Saudi Arabia oppose the proposal, warning it could destabilize the region and affect peace treaties. The Trump administration has adjusted the plan, suggesting relocation would be temporary, but details remain unclear. Palestinians fear permanent displacement, while Trump claims Gaza would be redeveloped by the U.S. without military involvement. Saudi Arabia insists on a Palestinian state including Gaza before normalizing relations with Israel.

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