World
US Releases New National Security Strategy, Criticizing European Allies and Prioritizing "America First"
The White House has released a new National Security Strategy, outlining the administration's foreign policy priorities. The 33-page document, which summarizes as "America First," rejects European allies and accuses them of suppressing free speech and democracy. It also concedes that the US must share power with China and seeks new allies in the Western Hemisphere. The strategy criticizes European nations for being overly regulated and claims that a majority of Europeans are denied democratic expression of their desire for peace with Russia. The document borrows from extremist ideologies, stating that Europe faces "civilizational erasure" due to demographic changes, and suggests that the US should cultivate resistance to Europe's current trajectory. Russia, on the other hand, is deemed a relationship worthy of "strategic stability," and the US is cast as a mediator between Russia and European states. The strategy prioritizes an "expeditious cessation of hostilities in Ukraine" and the reestablishment of "strategic stability" with Russia. The document has been criticized for its lack of seriousness and its departure from decades-old values and alliances. The strategy's release comes as European leaders prepare to meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Overall, the new National Security Strategy marks a significant shift in US foreign policy, prioritizing "America First" and criticizing long-standing alliances with European nations.
German Students Protest Mandatory Military Service Reform
School students across Germany skipped class on Friday to demonstrate against the government's reform on military service. The German parliament approved a legal change requiring all 18-year-old men to fill in a questionnaire about their fitness and willingness to serve in the military, while the questionnaire will remain voluntary for women. The reform also reinstates mandatory medical examinations for men born in 2008 onward. If the military fails to meet its recruitment targets, a portion of those examined could be called up after a separate vote. Protests were held in around 90 towns and cities across Germany, with around 800 people gathering in Berlin and several thousand expected by the end of the day. Students expressed their opposition to the compulsory aspect of the law, arguing that it should not be forced on anyone. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius addressed students in a video message, emphasizing the importance of defending democracy and the country's way of life. The reform is part of Germany's plan to increase its force levels to meet NATO readiness targets amid a growing threat from Russia. The ruling parties debated the reform for months before reaching a deal on the law change in November. The initiative behind the protest, Schulstreik gegen Wehrpflicht, argued that politicians and the military are making decisions without consulting young people. Students like Martin and Nils, who attended the demonstration, expressed their concerns about the compulsory nature of the law and the impact it could have on their lives.
Treasure Trove of 225 Funerary Figurines Discovered in Egyptian Tomb, Solving Long-Standing Mystery
A significant archaeological discovery has been made in the ancient Egyptian capital of Tanis, located in the Nile Delta. A team of archaeologists, led by French expert Frederic Payraudeau, uncovered a treasure trove of 225 funerary figurines, known as ushabti, inside a tomb. The figurines were found arranged in a star shape around the sides of a trapezoidal pit and in horizontal rows at the bottom. This rare find has solved a long-standing mystery regarding who was buried in the tomb, with the royal symbol on the figurines identifying the occupant as pharaoh Shoshenq III, who reigned from 830 to 791 BC. The discovery is remarkable, as finding figurines in place inside a royal tomb has not occurred in the Tanis necropolis since 1946. The team worked through the night to carefully extract the figurines, which took 10 days to complete. The find sheds light on burial methods during that period and provides insight into the life and reign of pharaoh Shoshenq III, whose four-decade rule was marked by a bloody civil war. The figurines will be displayed in an Egyptian museum after being studied, and experts believe that the Tanis site still holds many secrets waiting to be uncovered. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities confirmed the discovery, stating that it marks a decisive step in solving a long-standing archaeological mystery. The find comes just weeks after the official opening ceremony for the $1 billion Grand Egyptian Museum, one of the largest museums in the world dedicated to a single civilization: ancient Egypt.
Hong Kong Residents and Experts Defend Bamboo Scaffolding After Deadly Fire
Hong Kong residents and experts are pushing back against claims that bamboo scaffolding was a key reason for the city's deadliest fire in decades. The fire, which occurred on November 26, killed at least 159 people and spread from one tower to seven at the Wang Fuk Court complex. Authorities have focused on the traditional bamboo scaffolding as a potential factor in the fire's spread, with plans to replace it with metal alternatives. However, industry professionals and former senior officials argue that bamboo scaffolding is not the main culprit and that other factors, such as substandard green netting and flammable foam boards, contributed to the fire's spread. Experts, including Kristof Crolla and Raffaella Endrizzi, note that bamboo is a natural, combustible material, but when used properly with certified fire-retardant netting, it is relatively hard to ignite. They also argue that metal scaffolding is not a straightforward substitute for bamboo, as it is heavier and more time-consuming to set up and dismantle. The cost of metal scaffolding is also a concern, with bamboo costing half or less than metal scaffolding. The city's top leader, John Lee, has pledged to investigate the cause of the fire and implement systemic changes in the construction industry to prevent similar tragedies. An independent committee will investigate the fire, and authorities have arrested at least 15 people in a probe into suspected corruption and negligence at the renovation project. The debate over bamboo scaffolding highlights broader issues of construction safety and regulatory oversight in Hong Kong.
England Struggles with Missed Opportunities in Ashes Test Against Australia
England's cricket team is facing an uphill task to stay in the match and the series after Australia closed on 378-6, 44 runs ahead, on the second day of the day-night Ashes Test at the Gabba. The tourists missed five chances, with four of them coming in the night session under the floodlights. England captain Joe Root insisted that the team worked hard to be ready for the test, but former England captain Michael Vaughan criticized the team's fielding drills, saying they cannot replicate match practice. Vaughan stated that the art of taking chances is concentration, and that regular practice is necessary to improve. Root countered that it's never going to be perfect and that the team has done its best to prepare. The drops were part of a ragged day for England, with the first drop coming in daylight when wicketkeeper Jamie Smith failed to grab a rising ball to his left. The other drops came in the night session, with Ben Duckett dropping two chances and Brydon Carse and Joe Root also missing opportunities. In England's defense, Will Jacks held on to a stunning one-hander to dismiss Steve Smith. However, the drops have further contributed to England's awful catching record in day-night Tests, with a catching efficiency of 58% in the evening session, compared to 80% for all other teams. England's struggles with catching have been a recurring issue, with Vaughan saying that it's an area where the team needs to improve. The team will need to regroup and focus on taking their chances if they are to stay in the match and the series.
Russia and India Strengthen Ties During Putin's Visit to Delhi
Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India has resulted in a strengthening of ties between the two nations, with a focus on trade and economic cooperation. The visit, which included a guard of honour and a banquet at the president's house, saw the announcement of several agreements, including a Russia-India economic cooperation programme and a deal involving critical minerals and supply chains. A Russian-Indian pharmaceutical factory will also be built in Russia's Kaluga region. Despite speculation, no major defence deal was announced, although Russia will continue to be a key player in India's defence needs. The issue of oil was also discussed, with Putin emphasizing Moscow's readiness to ensure uninterrupted oil supplies to India. However, no details were announced, leaving the decision on India's future oil purchases in its court. The visit was seen as a significant moment in the relationship between the two nations, with India seeking to balance its ties with Russia and the United States. The current trade volume between Russia and India stands at $68.72bn, and both countries are looking to increase this figure, with a target of $100bn in bilateral trade over the next five years. Other agreements signed during the visit include deals in shipbuilding, civil nuclear energy, and visa-free travel. The leaders also discussed the progress made in concluding India's potential free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, which includes Russia. Overall, the visit has marked a significant step forward in the strategic partnership between Russia and India.
Ecuador's Government Claims Progress in Anti-Crime Efforts, But Data Raises Questions
Ecuador's government has marked two years in office by highlighting the results of its hardline anti-crime policies. President Daniel Noboa took office in November 2023, when the country was facing its worst security crisis in history, driven by the rise of powerful organized crime groups. The government claims that its efforts have led to progress in combating crimes like extortion and drug trafficking. According to the Ministry of the Interior, security forces conducted 1,134 operations against extortion networks, resulting in 2,858 detainees and $9.9 million seized. However, the data presented by the government has been criticized for lacking clarity and context, making it difficult to assess the true impact of its policies. The ministry's statistics on extortion and drug trafficking seizures have been questioned due to unclear time intervals and lack of comparison with previous data. Additionally, the government's claims of progress do not account for the rising homicide rate, which is on track to exceed 50 per 100,000 in 2025. The prison system remains a hub for gang activity, with violent deaths continuing to occur. Despite the capture of high-profile gang leaders, the removal of these leaders has led to power struggles and increased violence. Experts argue that the government must address the root causes of organized crime, including poverty and lack of opportunities, to effectively reduce violence and insecurity.
Russia and India Strengthen Ties During Putin's Visit to Delhi
Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India has resulted in a strengthening of ties between the two nations. The visit, which included a guard of honour and a banquet at the president's house, saw the announcement of several agreements, including a Russia-India economic cooperation programme and a deal to build a Russian-Indian pharmaceutical factory in Russia's Kaluga region. Putin also emphasized Moscow's readiness to ensure uninterrupted oil supplies to India, despite pressure from the US to stop purchasing Russian energy. The visit was high on optics, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi receiving Putin at the airport, a rare gesture. While there were no major defence deals announced, Russia is expected to continue playing a significant role in India's defence needs. The two countries have set a target of $100bn in bilateral trade and are working towards a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union. Trade was a key focus of the visit, with both countries seeking to boost their economies amidst Western sanctions and US tariffs. The visit has sent a strong message to the West, with Delhi's red carpet treatment of Putin a sign of its commitment to its "special and privileged strategic partnership" with Russia.
US Strategy Document Warns of "Civilisational Erasure" in Europe Due to Migration and EU Integration
The US National Security Strategy document, signed by Donald Trump, warns that Europe faces "civilisational erasure" within the next two decades due to migration and EU integration. The document argues that the US must "cultivate resistance" within the continent to "Europe's current trajectory". It claims that Europe is in economic decline and that its "real problems are even deeper", including the erosion of political liberty and sovereignty, migration policies that are transforming the continent, and the loss of national identities. The document appears to endorse the "great replacement" conspiracy theory, which claims that ethnic white European populations are being replaced by non-white peoples. It states that it is "more than plausible" that some European NATO members will become "majority non-European" within a few decades. The document also criticizes European governments for their handling of migration and free speech, and accuses them of suppressing opposition and democratic processes. Germany's foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, responded to the document by stating that the US remains a vital ally on security, but that questions of freedom of expression and the organization of free societies do not require outside advice. The document's publication has underscored the Trump administration's alignment with Europe's far-right nationalist parties, whose policies center on attacking supposed EU overreach and excessive non-EU migration.
Hong Kong Arrests Spark Debate After Deadly Fire
A recent fire in Hong Kong's Tai Po district has led to widespread outrage and grief, with at least 159 people killed and thousands displaced. A university student, Miles Kwan, was arrested by national security police on suspicion of sedition after launching a petition demanding answers from authorities. The petition, which gathered over 10,000 signatures, called for an investigation into the fire and accountability for any government officials responsible. The arrest has sparked a strong public reaction, with many criticizing the government's response to the disaster. Pro-Beijing authorities have warned against attempts to "exploit" the fire to "endanger national security," and have arrested several individuals on suspicion of manslaughter and other crimes. The government has announced an independent committee to investigate the fire and provide support to victims, but many are questioning the motives behind the arrests and the government's handling of the situation. Some lawmakers have defended the arrests, citing the need to maintain order and prevent a recurrence of the 2019 riots. However, others see the government's actions as an attempt to suppress dissent and maintain control. The incident has highlighted the ongoing tensions between the Hong Kong government and its citizens, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability. The city's leader, John Lee, has pledged to "ensure justice is served" to those who try to "sabotage" relief efforts, but no government official has yet resigned or been arrested over the fire.
Trump Administration Unveils New National Security Strategy Focusing on Western Hemisphere
The Trump administration has released a new National Security Strategy that prioritizes the Western Hemisphere, aiming to boost security and combat drug trafficking. The strategy, described as the "Trump Corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine, focuses on restoring American preeminence in the region to protect the homeland. It criticizes European partners, stating that they have "unrealistic expectations" for the war in Ukraine and belong to "unstable minority governments." The document expresses support for right-wing, populist parties in Europe and warns of "civilizational erasure" due to demographic changes. The strategy diverges from the previous one released under President Joe Biden in 2022, which focused on Russia and China. It gives few specifics about Russia, except for noting the need to "manage European relations with Russia" to establish strategic stability. The document supports an end to NATO expansion, a long-standing Russian demand, and accuses European governments of promoting conflict with Russia without popular support. The strategy also downplays the importance of the Middle East in U.S. foreign policy, citing diversified energy supplies, and instead emphasizes partnership and investment in the region. Additionally, it advocates for curbing Chinese power while maintaining a mutually beneficial economic relationship with Beijing and upholding the status quo on Taiwan. Overall, the new National Security Strategy marks a significant shift in U.S. global priorities, with a focus on the Western Hemisphere and a more critical approach to European partners.
China-Japan Diplomatic Feud Over Taiwan Issue Escalates
The diplomatic feud between Japan and China over the Taiwan issue continues to escalate, with no end in sight. China is attempting to isolate Japan diplomatically, following remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Japan's possible involvement in a conflict over Taiwan. China has sent letters of protest to the United Nations, halted seafood imports from Japan, and advised Chinese citizens not to travel to Japan. The dispute began when Takaichi suggested that a Chinese naval blockade of Taiwan could pose an existential threat to Japan, prompting China to launch a pressure campaign against Japan. Experts note that the context of Takaichi's remarks is key to understanding the Japan-China spat, as Japan's constitution prohibits it from waging war, but 2015 security legislation allows it to use its military in self-defense. The U.S., China, and Japan have all been ambiguous about how they might act in a potential conflict over Taiwan. China's reaction to perceived offenses by Japan has been milder than in the past, with no demonstrations or boycotts of Japanese products allowed. The feud has sparked concerns in Japan about the possibility of being sold out by the U.S. in a deal with China, and experts believe that China will not back down on the Taiwan issue due to its importance to China's honor, dignity, and history. The situation remains uncertain, with Takaichi refusing to retract her remarks but expressing openness to negotiations with Beijing.
New Zealand Police Recover Swallowed Fabergé Egg Locket
A diamond-studded Fabergé egg locket, valued at NZ$33,585 ($19,300; £14,600), has been recovered by New Zealand Police after it was swallowed by a 32-year-old man who attempted to steal it. The locket, known as the "Octopussy egg", features 60 white diamonds and 15 blue sapphires, and opens to reveal an 18-carat gold miniature octopus. The man was arrested at Partridge Jewellers in central Auckland, where the incident occurred, and has been charged with theft. Police reported that the locket was recovered in a "natural" manner, without requiring medical intervention. The suspect is currently in police custody and is being monitored due to the circumstances of the incident. The Octopussy egg was inspired by the 1983 James Bond film of the same name and is a valuable item from the world-renowned Fabergé jeweller. The locket will be returned to Fabergé, according to Partridge Jewellers. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court again on 8 December and faces additional charges for allegedly stealing an iPad and other items. The total value of the stolen goods, including the Fabergé egg locket, is significant, and the case has drawn attention due to its unusual nature.
EU Leaders Scramble to Secure Funding for Ukraine Amidst Russian Attacks
The European Union is racing to secure funding for Ukraine as the country faces a significant shortfall. EU leaders, including European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, are meeting with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever to discuss options for raising tens of billions of euros. The EU has pledged to keep Ukraine afloat, aiming to raise €90bn to meet about two-thirds of Kyiv's needs for 2026 and 2027. Two options are being considered: borrowing against the EU's shared budget or issuing a loan secured by frozen Russian assets. However, both alternatives face obstacles, with many member states opposed to common borrowing and Belgium rejecting the use of frozen assets due to concerns over potential Russian reprisals. Von der Leyen and Merz are pushing for the use of frozen Russian assets, arguing that it would show Moscow that Ukraine can continue fighting and put Kyiv in a better negotiating position. However, De Wever's government has expressed strong opposition, citing concerns over the legality of confiscating assets and the potential risks to Belgium. The commission has insisted that the plan complies with EU and international law and has proposed a "three-tier defense" to shield Belgium from legal jeopardy. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for the future of Europe, with Merz warning that the decisions made in the coming days will "decide the question of European independence" amidst an "imperialist Russia" seeking to extend its influence.
China and France Strengthen Ties, Vow to Expand Cooperation
Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Beijing, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation. Xi emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities and demonstrating strategic vision and independence as major countries. Macron expressed France's willingness to deepen its comprehensive strategic partnership with China and uphold the one-China policy. The two leaders discussed various areas of cooperation, including aviation, aerospace, nuclear energy, green economy, digital economy, biomedicine, and AI. China and France have a long history of cooperation, with bilateral trade reaching $68.75 billion from January to October 2025, a 4.1% increase year-on-year. The two countries have also seen significant investment, with cumulative two-way investment exceeding $27 billion. In the cultural sphere, over 6,000 French students studied in China last year, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to multilateralism and promoting solidarity and cooperation among nations. Xi stated that China and France should act with responsibility and uphold multilateralism, while Macron expressed France's commitment to promoting the sound and stable development of Europe-China relations. A recent poll found that 92.5% of respondents supported China and France jointly upholding true multilateralism and addressing global challenges. The meeting highlighted the significance of China-France cooperation in the face of global geopolitical instability. As major countries, they aim to provide certainty and stability to the world through their partnership. Experts believe that their cooperation offers a positive example for other nations, demonstrating the importance of building consensus, managing differences, and deepening cooperation through communication and dialogue.
Xi Jinping and Emmanuel Macron Meet in Beijing for Talks on Bilateral Relations and Global Issues
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Beijing for "candid and fruitful" talks, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and support between the two nations. The meeting covered various topics, including the Ukraine war, and resulted in the signing of 12 agreements on cooperation in areas such as nuclear power and panda conservation. Xi stressed the need for both countries to uphold multilateralism, engage in equal dialogue, and demonstrate the strategic value of their comprehensive strategic partnership. He also highlighted the importance of independence and strategic vision among major powers, regardless of external environmental changes. The French leader is on a three-day trip to China, visiting Beijing and Chengdu, and has expressed his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. The meeting between Xi and Macron marks a significant moment in China-France relations, with both leaders seeking to advance cooperation and address global challenges. The agreements signed during the meeting cover a range of sectors, showcasing the depth and breadth of the bilateral relationship. Xi's emphasis on mutual understanding and support underscores the importance of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The visit is Macron's fourth to China, demonstrating the growing significance of the China-France partnership on the global stage.
Ukraine Hits Russian Seaport and Oil Refinery in Reported Drone Strikes
Ukrainian drones have struck Russia's Temryuk seaport in Krasnodar Krai and the Syzran Oil Refinery in Samara Oblast in overnight strikes on Dec. 4-5, according to Russian officials and media reports. The Temryuk port, a key Russian facility in the Sea of Azov, suffered damage after a drone strike caused fires to break out on site. Regional authorities reported that "elements of the port infrastructure in Temryuk were damaged," but did not specify what was hit. All personnel were evacuated, and there were no casualties. The Syzran Oil Refinery, which belongs to the Russian state-owned oil company Rosneft, was also targeted in the drone attack. Residents of the city of Syzran reported explosions at the local oil refinery, and videos and images of the attack were posted on social media. The refinery has a reported annual processing capacity of 8.5 million tons and has been targeted in previous drone attacks as part of Ukraine's campaign against the Russian oil industry. These strikes are part of Ukraine's "long-range sanctions" against Russia's oil infrastructure, which provides funding and fuel for Moscow's war machine. Ukrainian government and military officials have referred to these strikes as a way to weaken Russia's ability to wage war. The Kyiv Independent could not verify these reports at the time of publication, but the attacks are seen as a significant escalation in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Russia's President Vladimir Putin Visits India Amidst Ongoing Ukraine Conflict
Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in India for a two-day visit, marking his first trip to the country since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Putin was welcomed with a 21-gun salute and a guard of honor, and he met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talks. The meeting comes as the US has imposed a 25% tariff on Indian imports due to India's purchases of Russian oil. Putin warned that Ukraine must withdraw from the Donbas region or Russia will seize it, rejecting any compromise to end the war. The visit is seen as an opportunity for India to strengthen its ties with Russia, despite Western pressure to isolate Moscow. India and Russia are expected to discuss trade, defense, and energy cooperation, with Russia remaining a key arms supplier to India. The two countries aim to increase their bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. Putin's visit is also a chance for him to demonstrate that Western efforts to isolate Russia have failed, with India being a key partner in Asia. The Russian leader has been traveling to countries outside the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction, avoiding the risk of arrest due to an outstanding warrant for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. India's relationship with the US has been unpredictable, and Modi will need to balance his ties with both Russia and the US. The visit is a high-stakes one for both leaders, with India seeking to strengthen its strategic autonomy and Russia looking to demonstrate its global influence.
Hong Kong University Student Arrested Over Petition Demanding Answers on Deadly Fire
A university student, Miles Kwan, was arrested by Hong Kong national security police on suspicion of sedition after launching a petition demanding answers from authorities regarding the recent deadly fire in Tai Po. The fire killed at least 159 people and displaced thousands, sparking widespread grief and anger. Kwan's petition, which gathered over 10,000 signatures, called for an investigation into the blaze and accountability from government officials. The arrest has stirred public debate, with some criticizing the government's response as an attempt to suppress dissent. Pro-Beijing authorities have warned against exploiting the fire to endanger national security, and several others have been arrested in connection with the disaster, including 15 people suspected of manslaughter. The government has announced an independent committee to investigate the fire and provide support to victims. However, the arrest of Kwan and others has raised concerns about freedom of expression and the government's handling of the crisis. The incident has also drawn comparisons to the 2019 protests, with some accusing the government of using the same tactics to maintain control. The Hong Kong government maintains that it is taking a prudent approach to ensure public safety and prevent a recurrence of the 2019 riots. However, many residents and activists argue that the government's response is excessive and that demanding truth and accountability is not a crime. The issue continues to dominate public discussion, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability from the government.
Macron Meets Xi in Rare Visit Outside Beijing, Discusses Trade and Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in the southwestern city of Chengdu, a rare gesture of hospitality highlighting Beijing's focus on Paris as it seeks more economic engagement with the EU. The meeting marked the last day of Macron's state visit to China, where he urged Xi to work towards ending the war in Ukraine and to correct trade imbalances with France and Europe. Xi accompanied Macron to the Dujiangyan dam, a World Heritage Site, and the two leaders discussed mutual trust and a desire to "act together" amidst rising international tensions. Macron's wife, Brigitte, visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where she met Yuan Meng, the first giant panda born in France in 2017. The French president met with students in Chengdu and will also meet table tennis brothers Alexis and Felix Lebrun, stars of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The two leaders signed 12 cooperation agreements covering topics such as population ageing, nuclear energy, and panda conservation, with no monetary amounts disclosed. Xi announced that China will provide $100 million to help Gaza's humanitarian crisis and called for building greater political trust with France by showing mutual support and independence. The visit aimed to strengthen ties between France and China, with Macron seeking increased Chinese investment in France and Xi seeking to expand China's economic engagement with the EU.