When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, many expected Kyiv to fall quickly. However, Ukraine’s resistance, bolstered by Western support, defied these expectations. Nearly three years later, Russia is making slow territorial gains, while Ukraine struggles to maintain morale and secure more military aid. As the war nears its 1,000th day, neither side is keen to negotiate. President-elect Trump suggests he could end the conflict, possibly by cutting aid to Ukraine, which could lead to a frozen conflict. Ukraine seeks Western guarantees against future Russian invasions. Noah Prescott 17/11/2024 8:30 am
On November 17, Russia launched its largest missile attack on Ukraine since August, targeting power facilities as winter approaches. Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko reported attacks on electricity generation and transmission across the country. Air defenses engaged drones over Kyiv, and blasts were heard in multiple cities, including Mykolaiv, where two people died. Power was cut in several regions as a precaution. The attack, involving drones and missiles, was described by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha as a response to diplomatic interactions with President Putin. Poland scrambled its air force as a security measure. Noah Prescott 17/11/2024 8:30 am
In Lima, President Biden faced questions about Trump’s return to power during meetings with Asian leaders. Despite Trump’s election win overshadowing his trip, Biden emphasized the strength of U.S. alliances. He plans to address global issues like Middle East conflicts, climate change, and meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Biden aims to project calm, reassuring the nation that democracy endures despite Trump’s reelection. Penelope Kingsley 17/11/2024 8:30 am
Venezuela’s government released some detainees from protests following the disputed July presidential election, which both President Nicolás Maduro and opposition candidate Edmundo González claim to have won. The releases occurred after the attorney general announced a review of 225 cases. NGOs confirmed at least 70 people were freed under unspecified conditions. Emotional reunions took place outside prisons, with images shared on social media. Maduro’s government faces criticism for election transparency issues and post-election repression, including arrests of political figures and protesters. Ava Sinclair 17/11/2024 5:00 am
The Russia-backed leader of Abkhazia, Aslan Bzhania, announced his readiness to resign and call elections after protests erupted against a Russian investment deal. The controversial agreement offers benefits to Russian investors, sparking fears of increased Russian influence. Bzhania, who supports lifting a ban on foreign property ownership, conditioned his resignation on protesters vacating government buildings. The “apartments bill” was withdrawn in July amid opposition concerns. Russia advised its citizens against traveling to Abkhazia due to the unrest. Penelope Kingsley 17/11/2024 1:30 am
A South African court ordered the lifting of a police blockade at a disused goldmine in Stilfontein, where hundreds, including undocumented migrants, are trapped. The blockade had prevented food and water from reaching the miners, who fear arrest and deportation. The court ruled that the mine must not be blocked and allowed emergency relief. Volunteers reported dire conditions, including a death. Police welcomed the order but maintained they could arrest miners exiting the site. A full hearing is scheduled for Tuesday. Noah Prescott 17/11/2024 1:30 am
Super Typhoon Man-yi, with winds up to 160 mph, hit Catanduanes, Philippines, prompting the evacuation of over 500,000 people in the Bicol region. Additional evacuations occurred in Northern Samar and Eastern Samar. The typhoon rapidly intensified, exceeding typical intensification rates. Signal 5 warnings, the highest level, were issued. Catanduanes Governor Joseph Boboy Cua requested prayers and aid. Man-yi is the fourth typhoon in two weeks, impacting more people due to its southern path. Penelope Kingsley 16/11/2024 10:00 pm
Joe Biden will meet Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in Peru, likely their last meeting before Donald Trump becomes U.S. President. Biden aims to ensure stability during the transition and discuss China’s role in addressing North Korea’s involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Biden also met with South Korea and Japan’s leaders to reinforce alliances. Trump’s upcoming presidency raises concerns about U.S.-China relations, given his hawkish stance and potential policy shifts, including increased tariffs and changes in military aid to Ukraine. Penelope Kingsley 16/11/2024 10:00 pm
A fire in a neonatal intensive care unit in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India, killed 10 newborns and injured 16. The blaze spread rapidly, affecting 55 infants, with 45 rescued. Initial investigations indicate safety lapses, including expired fire extinguishers and non-functional alarms, delayed rescue efforts. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak pledged government support and a thorough investigation. DNA tests are being conducted to identify the victims. Rescuers faced challenges due to delayed response and had to break windows to access the ward. Ava Sinclair 16/11/2024 10:00 pm
Israeli troops made their deepest incursion into southern Lebanon since October 1, reaching Chama and reportedly destroying a shrine. Israeli strikes also targeted Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, for the fifth consecutive day. A UN peacekeeping position was hit, and evacuation orders were issued. The Israel Defense Forces claimed to target Hezbollah infrastructure. Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations are ongoing, with the US ambassador to Lebanon presenting a new proposal. Casualty details remain unclear. Noah Prescott 16/11/2024 6:30 pm
