Elon Musk criticized German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on X, calling him an “anti-democratic tyrant” following Steinmeier’s comments on external influence. Musk, an ally of Donald Trump, previously insulted Chancellor Olaf Scholz, predicting his election loss. Musk’s account has over 200 million followers. Plans are underway for an online meeting between Musk and AfD leader Alice Weidel, following Musk’s suggestion for a conversation via X’s Spaces feature. Steinmeier’s office noted Musk’s post but declined to comment. Noah Prescott 31/12/2024 8:30 pm
As 2025 begins, the UAE, Armenia, and Azerbaijan celebrate with synchronized fireworks. Dubai’s Burj Khalifa features 15,600 pyrotechnics and a Dubai Fountain water show, arranged by 110 experts. Armenia’s New Year tradition involves priests blessing pomegranates, symbolizing unity and prosperity. Meanwhile, Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana beach prepares for the massive Réveillon party, featuring fireworks and performances by stars like Anitta. Watch live events online to join the celebrations. Noah Prescott 31/12/2024 8:30 pm
A critical failure in Puerto Rico’s power grid caused a massive blackout, affecting over 80% of the island. The outage began on New Year’s Eve morning, impacting 1.2 million users. Gov. Pedro Pierluisi demanded solutions from LUMA Energy and Genera. Restoration efforts are underway, focusing on the San Juan and Palo Seco plants, with full power expected in a day or two. Residents expressed frustration with the situation and government response. Penelope Kingsley 31/12/2024 8:30 pm
The UN Human Rights Office reports that Israeli attacks on Gaza’s hospitals have nearly collapsed the healthcare system, raising concerns of war crimes. The report highlights a pattern of strikes and evacuations leading to patient deaths. While Israel claims hospitals are misused by Palestinian groups, evidence is deemed vague. The Israeli military hasn’t commented but previously stated compliance with international law. The UN emphasizes the protection of hospitals, documenting 136 strikes on medical facilities, causing significant casualties and damage. Such attacks may constitute war crimes and collective punishment. Ava Sinclair 31/12/2024 5:00 pm
Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized Elon Musk for endorsing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) ahead of Germany’s February snap election. In a New Year’s address, Scholz emphasized that German citizens, not social media owners, decide the country’s future. Musk’s support for the AfD, expressed in a German newspaper, sparked backlash from German politicians, including Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck. Musk’s recent attacks on mainstream German politicians and praise for the AfD raise concerns about potential influence on Germany’s next government and its relations with the U.S. Noah Prescott 31/12/2024 5:00 pm
A Jeju Air crash in South Korea killed 179 people, with only two survivors, marking the country’s deadliest plane disaster in decades. The crash occurred after a bird strike warning was issued, and the pilot attempted to land without deploying landing gear, hitting a concrete barrier. The airport’s manual had noted the barrier’s proximity to the runway as a concern. Jeju Air’s CEO stated the plane and pilots were cleared for flight, but the investigation is ongoing. Noah Prescott 31/12/2024 5:00 pm
Kiribati was the first to welcome 2025 at 5 a.m. ET, followed by New Zealand’s Chatham Islands at 5:15 a.m. ET. Wellington and Auckland celebrated at 6 a.m. ET with fireworks. Sydney, Australia, enjoyed a fireworks display three hours before midnight local time. Alaska and Hawaii will be among the last to enter 2025. Penelope Kingsley 31/12/2024 5:00 pm
Mexico’s president announced an investigation into officials in Coalcoman, Michoacan, where a sign thanked Jalisco cartel leader “El Mencho” for holiday gifts. Drug cartels in Mexico often distribute gifts to gain local support, despite extorting protection money. Videos showed a sign at a Christmas fair expressing gratitude to the cartel. President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the sign, stating criminal groups shouldn’t promote violence acceptance. Federal prosecutors are investigating potential links between local officials and the cartel. The Jalisco cartel’s influence is evident in the region. Penelope Kingsley 31/12/2024 1:30 pm
Boeing faced a challenging year, culminating in a tragic crash of a Jeju Air 737, killing 179. The cause remains unclear, with no evidence yet implicating Boeing. Despite this, Boeing’s year was marred by numerous issues, many of which were its fault, leading to a significant stock drop and executive changes. Earlier, an Alaska Airlines 737 Max incident revealed missing bolts from a Boeing factory, highlighting ongoing safety concerns. Boeing expressed condolences and readiness to support Jeju Air, as investigations continue. Noah Prescott 31/12/2024 1:30 pm
Australia welcomed 2025 with spectacular fireworks, drawing over a million spectators to Sydney Harbour. The celebrations began on Christmas Island, followed by Tonga, Samoa, and New Zealand. Major cities like Auckland and Wellington marked the new year with fireworks. As 2024 ends, the world reflects on a year of Olympic achievements, political drama, and climate challenges. Many hope for global peace and resolution in 2025. Noah Prescott 31/12/2024 1:30 pm
