Marriages in China fell by 20% last year, the largest drop on record, despite government efforts to encourage marriage and childbirth to counteract population decline. High childcare and education costs, along with economic uncertainty, deter young couples. Only 6.1 million marriages were registered, down from 7.68 million the previous year. This trend threatens China’s political and economic goals, as the population ages rapidly. Noah Prescott 10/02/2025 7:30 am
The Democratic Republic of Congo is in turmoil due to the M23 rebel group’s advances in the east, led by Sultani Makenga. Thousands have died, and tensions with Rwanda have escalated. Makenga, born in 1973 in Masisi, joined the Rwandan Patriotic Front at 17, fighting for Tutsi representation and refugee return. His life reflects decades of conflict and DR Congo’s mineral wealth allure. Despite his war-driven life, Makenga claims to respect peace. Noah Prescott 10/02/2025 7:30 am
The Self-Determination party, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, won Kosovo’s general election with 39.8% of the vote, potentially straining relations with the U.S. and EU over Serb minority issues. The Democratic Party of Kosovo and Democratic League followed with 21.8% and 18.1%, respectively. Kurti’s party, needing a coalition partner, faces challenges due to his pro-Albanian nationalism. Despite tensions, Kurti declared the election a success, emphasizing a “good, prosperous, and democratic government.” Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 after a brutal civil war. Noah Prescott 10/02/2025 4:00 am
Two rare black wolves, likely siblings, were spotted in a Polish forest by SAVE Wildlife Conservation Fund. Captured on camera by Joanna Toczydłowska, the sighting has led to genetic research efforts. The wolves, around 30 kg and likely a year old, were seen crossing a stream with a gray wolf. Black wolves are rare in Europe due to limited genetic diversity. The organization, monitoring wolves for 13 years, keeps the location secret to protect them from poaching. Poland’s wolf population has rebounded since near extinction in the 1950s. Penelope Kingsley 10/02/2025 4:00 am
Famine in Gaza has been largely averted due to increased aid during a fragile ceasefire, according to UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher. Since the ceasefire began on January 19, over 12,600 aid trucks have entered Gaza, reducing starvation levels. However, Fletcher warns that famine could quickly return if the truce collapses. The ceasefire’s first phase is halfway through, and talks are underway for its extension. Fletcher urges both Hamas and Israel to adhere to the agreement, which has significantly improved conditions, though challenges remain. Penelope Kingsley 10/02/2025 4:00 am
In Ecuador’s presidential race, a run-off seems likely as Luisa Gonzalez closes in on incumbent Daniel Noboa. With 50.9% of votes counted, Noboa leads with 45.2% to Gonzalez’s 43.4%. Noboa, elected in 2023, claims his security measures have reduced violence. Despite his lead, pre-election polls and exit polls suggest he may not win outright, potentially facing Gonzalez in an April run-off. Noboa’s opponents argue more needs to be done to combat drug-related crime. Noah Prescott 10/02/2025 4:00 am
Kosovo’s upcoming election is pivotal for its future territorial integrity. Prime Minister Albin Kurti, who has strengthened control over a rebellious Serb area, faces challenges amid international tensions. The election’s outcome is uncertain, with Kurti’s sovereignty efforts criticized for imposing on the Serb minority. Kosovo’s independence, declared in 2008, remains unrecognized by Serbia, Russia, China, and some European states, affecting its UN and EU membership. Kurti’s party, Vetëvendosje, previously won on a platform of social democracy, anti-corruption, and Albanian patriotism. Ava Sinclair 10/02/2025 12:30 am
Two rare black wolves, likely siblings, were captured on camera in a Polish forest by SAVE Wildlife Conservation Fund. The footage, initially intended for beaver study, shows black and gray wolves crossing a stream. Black wolves are rare in Europe due to limited genetic diversity. The organization is collecting scat to study their genetics and is keeping the location secret to protect the wolves. Poland’s wolf population, once nearly extinct, has been reintroduced, with efforts to educate the public on coexisting with wolves. Noah Prescott 10/02/2025 12:30 am
President Donald Trump reiterated plans for the US to redevelop Gaza, viewing it as a “big real estate site.” He suggested the US would slowly develop the area, aiming to bring stability to the Middle East. Trump proposed other Middle Eastern countries house displaced Palestinians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump’s “revolutionary, creative vision,” which contrasts with previous ideas involving the Palestinian Authority. Netanyahu emphasized the plan’s potential to enhance Israel’s security. Penelope Kingsley 10/02/2025 12:30 am
A magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea south of the Cayman Islands, prompting initial tsunami alerts. Authorities later lifted most alerts, and no major damage or fatalities were reported. The quake occurred at 6:23 p.m. local time, with a depth of 10 kilometers and an epicenter 130 miles south-southwest of George Town, Cayman Islands. The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami advisory for Puerto Rico but not for the U.S. mainland. Penelope Kingsley 09/02/2025 9:00 pm
