In Tbilisi, police clashed with protesters after Georgia’s ruling party suspended EU accession talks and refused EU budgetary grants until 2028. The unrest saw police using water cannons, pepper spray, and tear gas against protesters attempting to storm the parliament. Relations with the EU have soured, with accusations of authoritarianism and pro-Russian stances. Thousands of pro-EU demonstrators blocked streets, and the president criticized the government. Georgian Dream claims the EU is using accession talks to “blackmail” Georgia, despite the country’s constitutional aim of EU membership. Ava Sinclair 29/11/2024 4:30 am
Iran plans to install over 6,000 additional centrifuges at its nuclear enrichment plants, according to a confidential IAEA report. This move follows a resolution against Iran by the IAEA’s Board of Governors. The increased enrichment capacity raises nuclear proliferation concerns, as Iran enriches uranium up to 60% purity, close to weapons-grade. However, new centrifuges are specified for 5% purity, potentially signaling a conciliatory gesture. Iran already operates over 10,000 centrifuges and plans to install more cascades, including advanced IR-6 machines, at Natanz and Fordow. Penelope Kingsley 29/11/2024 1:00 am
After 50 days in Canada’s northern Rocky Mountains, missing hiker Sam Benastick was found alive, authorities announced. Reported missing on October 19 after camping in British Columbia’s Redfern-Keily Provincial Park, the search involved police, rescue workers, and family. Despite harsh conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and avalanche risks, hope dwindled, and the official search was eventually called off. Benastick’s family stayed nearby, holding nightly meetings. His survival was hailed as the best outcome by police spokeswoman Cpl. Penelope Kingsley 29/11/2024 1:00 am
Australia passed a world-first law banning social media for children under 16, affecting platforms like TikTok and Facebook. Violations could incur fines up to 50 million AUD. The law, supported by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, aims to protect children from online harms. Platforms have a year to comply, but concerns remain about its rushed implementation and impact. Amendments enhance privacy, preventing platforms from requiring government IDs for age verification. Critics worry about privacy implications for all users. Noah Prescott 29/11/2024 1:00 am
Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened Ukraine with potential hypersonic missile strikes on Kyiv, citing Ukraine’s use of Western missiles on Russian territory. He claimed the U.S. and European allies are directly involved in the conflict. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned Putin’s escalation, accusing him of pressuring the U.S. to accept Russian terms. Despite nearly three years of conflict, Russia has not targeted Kyiv’s government buildings. Putin’s threats follow the U.S. and U.K.’s decision to allow their weapons to be used inside Russia, prompting a severe response. Penelope Kingsley 28/11/2024 9:30 pm
The U.S. and France brokered a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, aiming for a “permanent cessation of hostilities.” The agreement includes 13 points, focusing on withdrawal timetables and adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Lebanon must prevent Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel, while Israel ceases offensive actions in Lebanon. Both nations will rebuild communication, overseen by the UN, U.S., and France. Despite relief in Lebanon, Israeli border residents remain cautious. The deal’s authenticity is confirmed, though Israel’s official version is unpublished. Recent skirmishes highlight ongoing tensions. Noah Prescott 28/11/2024 9:30 pm
Romania’s top court ordered a recount of the presidential election’s first round after far-right candidate Calin Georgescu unexpectedly won with 22.9% of the vote. The court rejected an annulment request due to a late filing. Georgescu, critical of NATO and supportive of Putin, will face centrist Elena Lasconi, a NATO supporter, in a December 8 runoff. Both candidates criticized the recount decision. Romania’s presidency warned of cyberattacks targeting the election process. Penelope Kingsley 28/11/2024 9:30 pm
Sam Benastick, a 20-year-old hiker, was found alive after being lost for over six weeks in British Columbia’s Redfern-Kiely Provincial Park. Initially reported missing on October 19, he survived harsh conditions, including temperatures as low as -20°C. Benastick stayed in his car initially, then camped by a creek before moving to a dried-out creek bed. He was discovered by two men heading to work and taken to a hospital. Authorities expressed relief at his survival, given the extreme conditions and limited supplies. Ava Sinclair 28/11/2024 9:30 pm
Australia’s parliament passed a groundbreaking law banning social media for children under 16, requiring tech companies to prevent underage access or face hefty fines. The law, passed swiftly after intense debate, targets platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the need to protect youth from online dangers. The bill, supported by the main opposition, faced criticism from some independents and smaller parties. The law aims to hold tech companies accountable, marking a significant step in regulating social media’s impact on young people. Ava Sinclair 28/11/2024 6:00 pm
China has suspended Admiral Miao Hua, a top military official and ally of Xi Jinping, for corruption amid a broader purge in the military’s upper ranks. Miao, 69, heads the Political Work Department of the Central Military Commission. This follows reports of Defense Minister Dong Jun’s investigation, which China denies. Xi’s anti-corruption campaign targets the Rocket Force and military equipment sectors, leading to the downfall of several senior generals, including former defense ministers Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe. The crackdown aims to strengthen China’s military capabilities. Ava Sinclair 28/11/2024 6:00 pm
