Russia’s foreign intelligence chief, Sergei Naryshkin, warned of retaliation against NATO countries aiding Ukraine in long-range missile strikes on Russian territory. He emphasized that changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine make it difficult to defeat Russia militarily. Naryshkin cautioned NATO allies against facilitating such strikes, as they would face consequences. This follows Ukraine’s use of U.S. ATACMS missiles, approved by the Biden administration. Naryshkin highlighted the West’s growing awareness of Russia’s serious intentions and the potential catastrophic consequences of direct conflict. Penelope Kingsley 20/11/2024 8:30 pm
The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution for an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, citing the lack of conditions for hostage release. Fourteen members supported the resolution, but the U.S. opposed it, marking its fourth veto on cease-fire efforts since the conflict began. The resolution called for hostage release post-cease-fire, which the U.S. found unacceptable. Over 40,000 have died in Gaza, with a risk of famine. The U.S. continues to negotiate for a cease-fire and hostage release, with about 100 hostages still in Gaza. Noah Prescott 20/11/2024 8:30 pm
Swedish and Danish authorities are investigating the suspected sabotage of two undersea fibre-optic cables in the Baltic Sea. A Chinese cargo ship, Yi Peng 3, is under scrutiny as it was near the cables when they were damaged. The Danish navy is shadowing the ship, and Swedish officials are interested in it but have not disclosed details. Swedish underwater crews are gathering evidence, and the coast guard is increasing surveillance. China’s foreign ministry insists its vessels comply with international laws. The ship last visited a Russian port near Estonia on November 15. Noah Prescott 20/11/2024 8:30 pm
President Joe Biden approved providing anti-personnel land mines to Ukraine to slow Russian advances, with the expectation they will be used on Ukrainian territory, avoiding civilian areas. The U.S. mines are “non-persistent,” becoming inert after a preset period. This move follows Ukraine’s use of U.S. ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory, signaling potential conflict escalation. The Ukrainian and Russian governments have not commented on the development. Ava Sinclair 20/11/2024 8:30 pm
Japanese officials are monitoring China’s military activity after a Chinese plane entered Japanese airspace near Kyushu in August, which China attributed to turbulence. Japan protested, and China assured it would prevent future incidents. Despite China’s explanation, Japan views the violation as a serious breach of sovereignty. Concerns persist over China’s military presence near Japan and joint activities with Russia, prompting Japan to bolster its defenses. Noah Prescott 20/11/2024 8:30 pm
Investigators are probing the disruption of two undersea internet cables in the Baltic Sea, with European officials suspecting sabotage and US officials suggesting an accidental cause. The BCS East-West and C-Lion1 cables were cut within hours, prompting European leaders to express concerns about potential “hybrid warfare,” implicating Russia. This follows warnings about Russian threats to undersea infrastructure. However, US officials believe the damage was likely caused by an anchor drag from a passing vessel. Despite Russia’s denial, Sweden and Finland are investigating suspected sabotage. Ava Sinclair 20/11/2024 5:00 pm
President Joe Biden has agreed to supply Ukraine with anti-personnel land mines to slow Russian advances in the east. These mines, which deactivate after a set time, will be used only on Ukrainian territory and not in densely populated areas. The US State Department plans to close its Kyiv embassy due to potential air attack threats. Both Ukraine and Russia reported drone attacks, with no immediate casualty reports. This move aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense before Donald Trump returns to the White House. The US has previously provided anti-tank mines to Ukraine. Noah Prescott 20/11/2024 5:00 pm
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused the West of escalating the conflict after Putin lowered the nuclear weapons use threshold, condemned by the US, UK, and EU. Washington approved Ukraine’s use of ATACMS against Russia, with Russian analyst Vassily Kashin claiming Western involvement. The Kremlin views these actions as attacks on Russian territory. Nuclear policy expert Maxim Starchak noted the ambiguity in Russia’s nuclear doctrine, while recent developments, including North Korean troop arrivals and US missile support, heighten tensions, potentially edging closer to a Russia-NATO conflict. Ava Sinclair 20/11/2024 5:00 pm
Gangs attacked Petionville, an upscale area in Port-au-Prince, led by the Viv Ansanm group. Residents and police clashed with the gang, resulting in 28 suspected gang members killed. Despite prior warnings, it’s unclear if police prepared for the attack. Doctors Without Borders suspended operations due to police violence, including threats and attacks on staff. The aid group’s withdrawal exacerbates Haiti’s healthcare crisis. Witnesses reported brutal retaliations against gang members, including decapitations. The violence highlights escalating turmoil in Haiti’s capital. Penelope Kingsley 20/11/2024 5:00 pm
US envoy Amos Hochstein reported “positive progress” towards a ceasefire in Lebanon after talks in Beirut aimed at ending 13 months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Hezbollah has tentatively agreed to a US ceasefire proposal, narrowing gaps with Israel. Hochstein will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Fighting began in October 2023 after Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel. Central issues include Hezbollah’s presence in southern Lebanon and Israel’s security demands. A ceasefire is increasingly possible, though details remain unclear. Ava Sinclair 20/11/2024 5:00 pm
