During his annual news conference, President Vladimir Putin claimed that Russia’s military operation in Ukraine has strengthened the country, both militarily and economically. He suggested that the decision to send troops should have been made earlier. Putin emphasized Russia’s increased sovereignty and military capability, asserting it as the strongest globally. He dismissed Western claims about intercepting Russia’s new hypersonic missile and challenged Ukraine’s allies to a “high-tech duel.” Despite setbacks, including the assassination of Lt. Gen Igor Kirillov, Putin maintained that Russia is advancing toward its goals in Ukraine. Noah Prescott 19/12/2024 2:30 pm
North Korean soldiers have reportedly joined Russian forces in Ukraine, with significant casualties reported. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and military intelligence (GUR) confirmed their presence, embedded with Russian elite units in Kursk. Initial clashes resulted in an estimated 200 combined Russian and North Korean losses, with language barriers causing coordination issues. Some North Koreans mistakenly fired on Chechen troops. Ukraine’s “Birds of Magyar” unit released drone footage showing North Korean casualties, highlighting the escalation. Al Jazeera couldn’t verify the death toll. Ava Sinclair 19/12/2024 2:30 pm
The transcript is from “The Daily” podcast by The New York Times, hosted by Michael Barbaro. It discusses an upcoming verdict in a French rape trial that has drawn significant attention. Correspondent Catherine Porter explores the impact of the woman at the center of the trial, highlighting how her actions have challenged traditional power dynamics in the MeToo era. The conversation emphasizes the trial’s initial global shock and its continued relevance in France. Penelope Kingsley 19/12/2024 2:30 pm
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy urged Donald Trump to unite with Europe against Russia, fearing reduced U.S. support. Addressing EU leaders, Zelenskiy emphasized U.S.-EU unity to stop Putin and save Ukraine. EU leaders plan to reaffirm support for Ukraine, stressing any peace must involve Ukraine and respect its territorial integrity. EU President Antonio Costa highlighted the war’s implications for international law. Trump has called for a swift end to the war, suggesting Zelenskiy negotiate with Putin, though it’s unclear if this involves ceding territory. Russian forces occupy significant Ukrainian territory. Ava Sinclair 19/12/2024 11:00 am
Since Portugal returned Macao to China in 1999, the city has transformed from a quiet town into a bustling gaming hub, attracting mainland Chinese tourists and boosting its GDP per person to $68,000. Despite economic growth, Macao lacks sustainable development, with limited economic diversity and civic participation. The city, governed under “one country, two systems,” is the only place in China where casino gambling is legal, hosting resorts by American gaming giants. Macao will mark its 25th anniversary under Chinese rule with celebrations, including a visit from President Xi Jinping. Ava Sinclair 19/12/2024 11:00 am
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s focus on a pro-Western foreign policy led to his impeachment after briefly imposing martial law, surprising Western allies. His political downfall may signal a shift towards the political left, less supportive of the U.S. and Japan. Despite praise for promoting freedom and aligning with Western stances on global issues, Yoon’s autocratic tendencies and internal political discord were underestimated by his allies, highlighting the importance of domestic stability in international relations. Ava Sinclair 19/12/2024 11:00 am
Dominique Pelicot, 72, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in Avignon, France, for aggravated rape after drugging his wife and recruiting men to assault her over a decade. The case involved 50 other defendants, with 46 convicted of rape. The trial, requested by Pelicot’s ex-wife Gisèle, sparked national and international debate on rape. Pelicot admitted to sedating his wife and facilitating the assaults, which were uncovered in 2020 after unrelated allegations led to police discovering incriminating evidence. Penelope Kingsley 19/12/2024 11:00 am
At least 100 North Korean troops have been killed and 1,000 injured in combat against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, according to South Korea’s spy agency. The losses are attributed to their inexperience with drone warfare and unfamiliar terrain. Over 10,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to assist Russia, with Pyongyang also supplying artillery and weapons. South Korean lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun noted discrepancies in casualty estimates compared to U.S. figures, citing conservative analysis by the National Intelligence Service. Ava Sinclair 19/12/2024 7:30 am
Human Rights Watch accused Israel of committing genocide and extermination in Gaza by denying Palestinians clean water, claiming it amounts to crimes against humanity. Israel rejected these accusations, asserting compliance with international law and facilitating water and aid despite Hamas attacks. HRW’s report highlighted statements from Israeli officials suggesting intent to harm Palestinians, which could support genocide claims. This follows similar accusations from Amnesty International and ICC arrest warrants for Israeli leaders over alleged war crimes. Israel denies all allegations. Penelope Kingsley 19/12/2024 7:30 am
Despite recent military advances in Ukraine, Russia faces economic challenges. Western sanctions are increasingly effective, straining the economy and impacting budgetary resources due to war expenses. Initially resilient, Russia’s growth and low unemployment are overshadowed by rising inflation and high interest rates, reaching 21% in October. Business leaders criticize Central Bank President Elvira Nabiullina, as high rates hinder investment. Russian Railways plans to cut investment by a third by 2025, with many companies burdened by variable interest rate debt. Ava Sinclair 19/12/2024 7:30 am
