Putin closed the BRICS summit in Kazan, praising its role against the West. The event, attended by leaders from 36 countries, highlighted the failure of U.S. efforts to isolate Russia over Ukraine. U.N. Secretary-General Guterres, visiting Russia for the first time in over two years, called for peace in Ukraine and an end to conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan. Putin was questioned about Trump’s promise to end the Ukraine conflict. Penelope Kingsley 24/10/2024 9:00 pm
At the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the bloc’s role as a counterbalance to Western influence, criticizing the West’s “perverse methods.” The summit focused on financial cooperation, alternatives to Western payment systems, and expanding BRICS membership. Originally including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the group now includes Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, with more countries interested. Putin accused the West of using sanctions and protectionism to suppress the Global South, citing Ukraine as an example of Western interference. Ava Sinclair 24/10/2024 5:30 pm
Videos show two attackers arriving by car, firing guns, and approaching a building in Ankara. Meanwhile, a 100-year-old time capsule in Kansas City revealed a Bible and a declaration of war. In other news, Trump avoided answering questions about speaking with Putin post-presidency, and a BBC reporter covered rocket fire in Israel. A hidden WWII bomb exploded at an airport, and a US warship intercepted an Iranian missile. A Russian jet flew close to a US aircraft, and New Zealand set a record for the largest haka. Penelope Kingsley 24/10/2024 5:30 pm
Chinese communists are using spambots to influence U.S. elections, targeting Republican lawmakers critical of China, according to Microsoft. The Microsoft Threat Analysis Center reports that CCP-linked fake social media accounts have spread antisemitic posts against Reps. Barry Moore, Michael McCaul, Sen. Marsha Blackburn, and Sen. Marco Rubio. The campaign, identified as Taizi Flood or “Spamouflage,” is linked to China’s Ministry of Public Security. The operation amplifies antisemitic messages, corruption accusations, and promotes opposition candidates. Noah Prescott 24/10/2024 5:30 pm
An international conference in Paris raised $1 billion for Lebanon, with $800 million for humanitarian aid and $200 million for military support. Over 70 nations participated, including France, which pledged $100 million, and the U.S., which pledged $300 million. The aid aims to address Lebanon’s economic crisis and support its armed forces amid conflict with Hezbollah. Germany and Italy also contributed. Challenges include delivering aid due to Lebanon’s informal economy and corruption risks. The conference seeks to strengthen Lebanon’s military and restore sovereignty. Penelope Kingsley 24/10/2024 5:30 pm
President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the presence of North Korean troops in Russia, responding to Western claims of North Korea’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict. At a conference, he humorously addressed satellite images showing North Korean troops but didn’t confirm Pentagon statements. This followed Russia’s Parliament ratifying a mutual defense treaty with North Korea, signed by Putin and Kim Jong Un, reinforcing Moscow’s alliance with Pyongyang. The treaty includes a clause for mutual military support in case of war, signaling strengthened ties against the West. Noah Prescott 24/10/2024 5:30 pm
Hezbollah is fiercely resisting Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, despite significant setbacks, including leadership losses and electronic breaches. Israel’s ground campaign, initially expected to last weeks, faces delays, raising concerns of mission creep. Hezbollah, aided by Iran and strategic planning, has rebounded, even damaging Netanyahu’s home with a drone. Israeli officials claim Hezbollah is weakened, but the group insists its capabilities remain strong. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have devastated Hezbollah’s stronghold in Beirut, displacing thousands and causing widespread destruction. Noah Prescott 24/10/2024 5:30 pm
North Korea is sending 12,000 troops to support Russia, with 3,000 already deployed, according to South Korea’s defense ministry. The U.S., South Korea, and Ukraine have confirmed this development, viewing it as a provocation. The troops include special forces, engineers, and artillery units. U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stated these troops are “fair game” for Ukrainian defense forces. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and NATO have also acknowledged the deployment, though the exact roles of the North Korean soldiers remain unclear. Noah Prescott 24/10/2024 2:00 pm
A New Zealand airport in Dunedin has set a three-minute limit on farewell hugs in the car drop-off zone, sparking global debate. The rule aims to keep traffic flowing smoothly, with signage reminding people of the limit. Airport CEO Daniel De Bono noted that a 20-second hug releases happiness hormones, so three minutes is ample. Longer hugs can be had in the parking lot, where the first 15 minutes are free. The rule has drawn mixed reactions online, with some finding it quirky and others criticizing it. The airport was surprised by the global attention. Noah Prescott 24/10/2024 2:00 pm
For three years, I sought to interview Sirajuddin Haqqani, a key Taliban figure known for his ruthless military strategies and ties with terrorist groups. After the Taliban’s 2021 takeover, Haqqani became a significant government figure but remained elusive, granting only one interview to a Western journalist. We spoke for three hours in Kabul, discussing his background and secret interactions with American officials. I also consulted over 70 experts and reviewed extensive documents to understand Haqqani’s role and influence within the Taliban government. Noah Prescott 24/10/2024 2:00 pm
