The Shopping Trends team has identified a potential affiliate commission opportunity through the use of specific links. This team, separate from CTV News journalists, may receive compensation for purchases made via these links. Further information about the Shopping Trends team and their processes can be found in the provided “Read about us” section.
A recent missile launch from the Yasny test site in Russia resulted in a failure shortly after takeoff, producing a large plume of purple smoke. While regional authorities have not disclosed the type of missile, reports suggest the launch may have been an RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, based on the site’s configuration and fuel characteristics. However, some outlets propose the incident may involve a UR-100N intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with the Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle, as the site supports both systems. This potential failure marks another setback for Russia’s missile program, which has faced previous challenges, including damage to launch infrastructure.
A recent report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) revealed that India imported 5.4 million tonnes of Russian oil worth €2.1 billion between January and September 2025 using 30 vessels sailing under false flags. This comprised the largest single national destination for crude transported by Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which is comprised of aged tankers operating in legal grey areas. The report indicated a concerning rise in the number of Russian vessels utilizing false flags, with 113 such vessels transporting 13% of all Russian crude oil during the first nine months of the year. CREA emphasized the need for global reforms, urging the EU and UK to address the environmental and security threats posed by these practices and to disrupt the logistics that support Russia’s war effort.
The Tokyo High Court has upheld Japan’s ban on same-sex marriage, declaring the current civil law provisions constitutional, a stance unique among high court rulings on the matter. The court reasoned that the traditional marriage system aids in child-rearing and that the Constitution’s freedom of marriage does not extend to same-sex couples, while also expressing concern over the lack of parliamentary progress. This decision contrasts with previous rulings from other Japanese courts that found the lack of legal recognition for same-sex marriage unconstitutional, although these rulings rejected compensation claims. With the plaintiffs planning an appeal, a unified decision from the Supreme Court is anticipated in the coming year.
European Commission chief spokeswoman Paula Pinho affirmed Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Ukraine’s democratically elected president, contrasting this with apparent difficulties in recognition by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Pinho highlighted the EU’s collaboration with Zelenskyy and its support for his efforts to end the war and achieve peace. This stance follows Putin’s repeated assertions questioning Zelenskyy’s legitimacy, a position viewed as posturing by some. While the Kremlin has reportedly received details of a peace plan, and a meeting between the Ukrainian and US negotiating teams is anticipated, potential negotiations involving Trump, Putin, and Zelenskyy are also being explored.
According to a recent report, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has instructed troops in Ukraine to commit suicide with grenades if captured. This directive is reinforced through twice-weekly political indoctrination sessions that glorify self-sacrifice as an act of loyalty, using religious-style martyrdom narratives. Experts suggest this reflects a complete disregard for the soldiers’ lives, with North Korea already publicly acknowledging casualties. Despite reports of their presence in the Zaporizhzhia region, Ukrainian intelligence primarily indicates North Korean troops are involved in fortification work and engineering tasks, not frontline combat, in the Kursk region.
The content is currently restricted due to unauthorized access being prohibited. To gain access, prior permission and a valid contract are required. Interested parties should contact [email protected] to explore licensing options. Telegraph subscribers should contact [email protected] and reference the provided ID code.
The United States is reportedly preparing to recognize Russia’s control of Crimea and other occupied Ukrainian territories as part of a potential peace deal, with envoys planned to present the offer to Moscow. This proposal is expected despite concerns from European allies, and it will be presented to President Vladimir Putin with recognition of territory as a key negotiation point. While the original plan included de facto U.S. recognition of several regions, a revised version is less favorable to Moscow, yet U.S. offers of recognition remain. Ukraine will not be required to formally recognize Russian control, due to constitutional restrictions, but ultimate territorial concessions will be discussed in private talks between the Ukrainian and U.S. presidents.
In a recent interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, reiterated that Ukraine will not concede territory to Russia for peace. This stance directly contradicts Russian President Vladimir Putin’s statement that Moscow would halt its offensive if Ukrainian forces withdrew from claimed territories. Putin’s declaration also warned that Russia would achieve its aims through military means if Ukraine refused. This disagreement over territorial control remains a primary obstacle to peace, especially as Russian forces continue their slow but steady advance in eastern Ukraine.
The UK’s decision to cease issuing new oil and gas licenses marks a historic turning point, according to Greenpeace UK. This move signifies the beginning of the end for fossil fuels in the country and demonstrates global climate leadership. While welcoming the government’s commitment, Greenpeace emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive plan to support North Sea workers during the transition to clean energy. A more robust investment is crucial to ensure a just transition that creates new jobs and strengthens communities.
John Q. Hosedrinker