The actors union Equity is campaigning against “AI show stealers,” fearing AI could create synthetic performances without proper actor compensation or control. Equity’s general secretary, Paul W Fleming, accuses the AI sector of large-scale intellectual property theft and criticizes government proposals on AI copyright use as flawed. He emphasizes the need for protections and creative worker involvement in policy-making. Meanwhile, government sources indicate Sir Keir Starmer plans to keep Rachel Reeves as chancellor throughout the parliament, despite not publicly committing to it. Reeves recently secured £600m in agreements during a China visit. Penelope Kingsley 13/01/2025 5:00 pm
In Biden’s final week in office, he and Netanyahu discussed progress towards a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. Despite momentum, uncertainties remain, including the permanence of the ceasefire and Israeli military withdrawal. Biden emphasized the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. Netanyahu updated Biden on negotiations in Doha. Israeli media reported Netanyahu persuading cabinet members to support the deal. Efforts continue with international mediation, but doubts persist about achieving a quick agreement. Penelope Kingsley 13/01/2025 1:30 pm
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer aims to make the UK a global leader in AI, proposing special zones for data centers and promoting tech-focused education. He believes AI could boost productivity by 1.5% annually, adding £47 billion to the economy. The government plans to adopt 50 recommendations from the “AI Opportunities Action Plan,” including easing data center construction. Despite being the third-largest AI market, the UK’s recent high-tax budget has affected business confidence. Starmer emphasizes AI’s potential to transform lives and insists on proactive competition. Noah Prescott 13/01/2025 1:30 pm
Millions of Hindu devotees are gathering in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, for the Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious festival, expecting 400 million attendees over six weeks. Held every 12 years, the festival involves bathing in the Triveni Sangam to purify sins. The event, rooted in Hindu mythology, rotates among four cities. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited global participation, and extensive infrastructure has been developed to accommodate visitors. The festival highlights cultural and religious significance, with past safety concerns due to large crowds. Ava Sinclair 13/01/2025 1:30 pm
South Korea’s spy agency reported that two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region haven’t sought asylum in South Korea. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is open to exchanging them for Ukrainian POWs in Russia or exploring other options for those not wishing to return to North Korea. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service participated in questioning the soldiers and is open to discussions if they request asylum. The agency noted North Korean soldiers struggle with modern warfare and face harsh conditions under Russian command. Memos suggest orders for suicide before capture. Ava Sinclair 13/01/2025 10:00 am
Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is seeking international legitimacy, notably through Elon Musk’s support. At a recent convention, AfD leader Alice Weidel thanked Musk for streaming the event, boosting their visibility. Musk’s endorsement is energizing the party ahead of the February national election, as AfD leaders view him as a link to the incoming Trump administration. The party adopted a motion to strengthen ties with the U.S., despite traditionally favoring closer relations with Russia. Penelope Kingsley 13/01/2025 10:00 am
Croatia’s President Zoran Milanović, a critic of the EU and NATO, won reelection with over 74% of the vote, defeating conservative Dragan Primorac. Milanović’s victory signals public discontent with the government led by PM Andrej Plenković. Known for his combative style, Milanović’s win sets the stage for continued political clashes. The election highlighted Croatia’s challenges, including inflation and corruption. Penelope Kingsley 13/01/2025 10:00 am
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and U.S. President Biden discussed efforts for a cease-fire and hostage release deal in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Mediated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, talks have stalled but show recent promise. High-level officials, including Israel’s Mossad chief and Biden’s Mideast adviser, are in Doha for negotiations. Biden’s adviser, Jake Sullivan, expressed cautious optimism about reaching a deal before Trump’s inauguration. Despite being close, no agreement is finalized. Only one brief cease-fire has occurred in the 15-month conflict. Ava Sinclair 13/01/2025 6:30 am
The Senate is set to consider the Laken Riley bill, which mandates detaining undocumented immigrants accused of theft. The bill gained bipartisan support after passing the House, despite concerns about due process and costs. Democrats, previously resistant, are now open to debate, influenced by electoral losses over border security. However, they seek amendments, as the bill allows detention without evidence and lets states sue the federal government over immigration law enforcement. The Senate will resume discussions on the bill soon. Ava Sinclair 13/01/2025 6:30 am
Mayotte faces severe flooding and mudslides after heavy rains, a month after Cyclone Chido’s devastation. The archipelago is on high alert due to Storm Dikeledi, which caused fatalities in Madagascar. Videos show downed power lines and flooding, with Mbouini village submerged. Over 14,500 people are in emergency shelters. The storm is moving away but expected to intensify near Mozambique, which is still recovering from Cyclone Chido. Mayotte remains on red alert due to ongoing heavy rains. Ava Sinclair 13/01/2025 3:00 am
