Chinese President Xi Jinping cautioned the US against crossing four “red lines,” including Taiwan’s status, human rights issues, and South China Sea disputes, during talks with President Biden at the APEC summit. Emphasizing Taiwan’s significance, Xi stated that “Taiwan independence” threatens peace in the Taiwan Strait. Despite tensions, Xi pledged cooperation with President-elect Trump, aiming for a smooth US-China relationship transition, critical for global stability. His remarks follow years of strained ties, marked by trade wars and heightened regional tensions, specially during Trump’s first term
ISRAEL ACCUSED OF GENOCIDE IN GAZA
The United Nations Special Committee (UNSC) stated that Israel’s actions in Gaza resemble genocide, citing mass civilian casualties and the destruction of essential services. The report released on Thursday criticized Israel’s blockade, use of AI-driven targeting, and alleged starvation tactics despite several UN appeals and binding orders from the International Court of Justice and resolutions of the Security Council. While Israel denies the allegations by calling it “grossly distorted”, it faces global scrutiny for its humanitarian impact. Meanwhile, Palestinians in Gaza continue to endure dire conditions with limited aid access.
ZELENSKY CRITICIZES SCHOLZ-PUTIN CALL
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s recent call with Vladimir Putin, likening it to opening a “Pandora’s box”. “This is exactly what Putin has been wanting for a long time: it is extremely important for him to weaken his isolation, Russia’s isolation, and to have normal negotiations that will not end in anything,” says Zelensky about the call. Scholz emphasized support for Ukraine while urging Putin to pursue a “just and lasting peace.” The controversial dialogue comes amid Ukraine’s challenges on the frontlines and uncertainty about future Western aid under U.S. President-elect Trump.
UKARAINE FACES A MASSIVE AERIAL ASSAULT
Russia carried one of the largest aerial attacks on Ukraine, striking drones and missiles at cities, civilians, and critical energy infrastructure, forcing emergency power cuts in Kyiv and eastern regions, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced on Sunday. Ukraine’s Energy Minister reported attacks on electricity facilities nationwide. President Zelensky revealed that Russia has destroyed half of Ukraine’s energy capacity as the nation braces for another harsh winter, urging Western allies for aid in rebuilding the grid and boosting aerial defences.
SUPER TYPHOON SURPRISES PHILIPPINES
Super Typhoon Man-yi, aka Pepito, has struck the Philippines, triggering the evacuation of over 500,000 people. It first made landfall in Catanduanes province and is projected to cross Luzon, home to half the country’s population. Packing winds of 185 km/h (115 mph) and gusts up to 230 km/h (143 mph), the typhoon threatens severe storm surges, landslides, and widespread damage. While recovery from three recent typhoons continues, no casualties have been reported. Scientists attribute intensified storms to warmer ocean temperatures, exacerbated by climate change, which fuels stronger typhoons and extends the storm season.
