Russia has supplied air defense missile systems to North Korea in exchange for North Korean troops supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine, according to a South Korean official. Over 10,000 North Korean troops were reportedly sent to Russia, with some engaging in combat. Concerns arise over potential Russian transfers of advanced weapons technology to North Korea, though experts doubt this will happen initially. South Korea’s Shin Wonsik confirmed Russia provided missiles to bolster Pyongyang’s air defenses. Expert Lee Illwoo speculates Russia sent S-400 systems, but questions their effectiveness against threats like Ukrainian drones. Penelope Kingsley 22/11/2024 6:30 pm
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban invited Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu to visit, assuring him safety despite an ICC arrest warrant for alleged war crimes. The warrant, also targeting others, has divided EU nations, with some, like Ireland, pledging to enforce it, while others, including Germany and France, remain silent. Orban criticized the warrant as “unacceptable,” highlighting Hungary’s strong ties with Netanyahu. The ICC lacks enforcement power, relying on member states to act. The situation underscores tensions between international law and foreign policy within the EU. Penelope Kingsley 22/11/2024 3:00 pm
Israel continued its bombardment of Lebanon, targeting areas like Tyre and Dahiya, amid ongoing conflict with Hezbollah. Despite U.S. efforts for a cease-fire, tensions remain high. Israeli strikes killed five paramedics, contributing to Lebanon’s health system crisis, which has faced 126 attacks this year. Analysts suggest Israel’s intensified attacks aim to pressure Hezbollah into a favorable cease-fire. U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein discussed potential cease-fire terms with Israeli officials. Noah Prescott 22/11/2024 3:00 pm
A suspicious package was found outside the U.S. Embassy in London, prompting police to close Ponton Road and conduct a controlled explosion. The embassy resumed normal operations, but public appointments for November 22 were canceled. The incident led to online speculation, but authorities confirmed the “loud bang” was the controlled explosion. The U.S. Embassy, which moved to a new $1 billion location in 2018, was unaffected beyond the temporary disruption. Penelope Kingsley 22/11/2024 3:00 pm
Rich countries have repeatedly failed to meet a $100bn annual climate finance goal set for 2020, achieving it only in 2022. This delay has caused frustration and distrust among vulnerable nations. As new negotiations unfold, no clear financial target has been set, with some advocating for $1.3tn annually. Critics, including ActionAid and Oxfam, argue that proposed figures fall short, accusing wealthy nations of neglecting climate justice. Despite the urgency, substantial funding commitments remain elusive, with ongoing debates about financial responsibility. Noah Prescott 22/11/2024 3:00 pm
Russia has supplied North Korea with antiaircraft missiles in exchange for North Korean troops and weapons to support Russia’s war in Ukraine, according to South Korean officials. North Korea has sent approximately 11,000 troops and 20,000 containers of weapons, including artillery and missiles, to Russia. In return, North Korea seeks Russian assistance in modernizing its military and advancing its nuclear program. South Korea’s national security adviser, Shin Won-shik, confirmed Russia’s provision of military technology, including satellite-launch support, to North Korea. Penelope Kingsley 22/11/2024 3:00 pm
Six foreign tourists, including two Australian teenagers, have died from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos after consuming tainted alcohol. Holly Bowles, 19, and her friend Bianca Jones, also 19, died in Vang Vieng. Other victims include British lawyer Simone White, an unnamed US man, and two Danish women. Methanol, often found in bootleg alcohol, is suspected. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed condolences. Methanol is dangerous due to its different carbon structure, making it lethal when ingested. The source of the poisoning remains unknown. Ava Sinclair 22/11/2024 3:00 pm
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 allies, including his vice-presidential candidate Walter Braga Netto, have been indicted for allegedly plotting a coup after losing the 2022 election. The federal police investigation claims they attempted to violently abolish democratic rule. Bolsonaro denies the accusations, calling the investigation “creative.” The indictment includes former ministers and his ex-spy chief. Bolsonaro, banned from office for eight years, faces additional accusations of tampering with vaccination cards and illegal jewelry sales. The top prosecutor will decide on pressing charges. Ava Sinclair 22/11/2024 11:30 am
A Russian drone attack on Sumy, Ukraine, killed two and injured 12, damaging multiple buildings and vehicles. The drones, equipped with shrapnel, targeted a densely populated area, according to Sumy regional governor Volodymyr Artiukh. Recent attacks in the region have caused significant casualties and infrastructure damage, including a drone strike on Hlukhiv that killed 12 and a missile attack on Sumy that killed 11 and injured 89, leaving the administrative center without power. Penelope Kingsley 22/11/2024 11:30 am
A second Australian teenager, Holly Bowles, has died in Bangkok after drinking tainted alcohol in Laos, raising the death toll to six in a mass poisoning incident. Several people have been detained, including staff from the Nana Backpacker Hostel. The U.S. State Department issued a health alert for suspected methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng. Other victims include an Australian, a British woman, an American, and two Danish tourists. New Zealand reported one citizen possibly affected. Laos maintains strict control over information. Noah Prescott 22/11/2024 11:30 am
