The British Geological Survey has upgraded its forecast to the maximum level, anticipating a significant geomagnetic “cannibal storm” that may be one of the largest in two decades, following initial interference with communications and satellite navigation. This solar storm, an eruption of particles and energy from the sun, could trigger spectacular Northern Lights displays, particularly in Scotland, northern England, and Northern Ireland. However, the storm’s potential reach extends beyond visual delights, with possible disruptions to GPS, communication systems, and power grids, as indicated by the highest G5 rating. Although NASA assures that humans are protected from direct harm, the storm’s intensity warrants close monitoring.
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The U.S. economy is facing a decline in international tourism spending, largely due to a decrease in Canadian visitors. A recent U.S. Travel Association report forecasts a $5.7 billion USD loss in 2025, with double-digit drops in Canadian air and land travel to the U.S. observed. Canadians, traditionally the largest group of international tourists, are reportedly deterred by the current political climate and policies, as evidenced by an Angus Reid poll showing 70% of Canadians uncomfortable traveling to the U.S. Some U.S. tourism organizations near the Canadian border are responding with incentive programs and discounts in an effort to attract Canadians back.
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On November 12, Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces conducted a successful fire attack on the Lukoil-owned Stavrolen petrochemical enterprise in Budyonnovsk, southern Russia, using drones from the Deep Strike unit. While Russian air defenses intercepted 22 drones, including some over Stavropol Krai, the strike resulted in numerous explosions and a fire at the target. The Stavrolen plant, a major producer of petrochemical products, reportedly produces components used in Russian military equipment. This attack is part of Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to disrupt Russia’s oil and gas production, impacting its war efforts.
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An X5.1-class solar flare, the strongest of 2025, erupted from sunspot AR4274 on November 11th, causing strong radio blackouts over Africa and Europe. This eruption follows a series of intense flares from the same sunspot, including X1.7 and X1.2 flares in previous days. A coronal mass ejection (CME) from the recent flare is expected to reach Earth on November 12th, potentially causing severe geomagnetic storm conditions, with the possibility of triggering widespread auroras.
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The Ulyanovsk region of Russia will indefinitely lack mobile internet access due to federal restrictions implemented “to ensure state security,” according to regional officials. These restrictions, affecting residential areas and businesses, are mandated by Moscow and will remain in place “until the end of the war against Ukraine”. While the government emphasizes these are permanent security measures, residents are encouraged to utilize available public Wi-Fi hotspots and a “white list” of accessible online services. This move follows a new federal decision to expand security zones around strategic facilities in response to perceived threats, and comes as new decrees require telecommunication providers to terminate user access based on FSB requests.
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The USS Gerald R Ford, the U.S. Navy’s newest and largest aircraft carrier, has arrived in the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility, escalating military tensions with Venezuela. This deployment, along with other U.S. warships, a submarine, and aircraft, represents a significant military buildup, purportedly aimed at combating drug trafficking. In response, the Venezuelan government has also mobilized its military, viewing the U.S. presence as a major threat and accusing the U.S. of fabricating a new war. Meanwhile, regional leaders have responded cautiously, with a summit declaration rejecting the use of force, though some nations, like Venezuela, are holding a firm line against the U.S. presence.
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BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Colombian President Gustavo Petro has ordered the nation’s security forces to halt intelligence sharing with the United States until the U.S. ceases its attacks on suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean, actions that critics liken to extrajudicial executions. Petro’s decision comes amidst deteriorating relations, following the U.S. strikes that have resulted in numerous deaths and targeted vessels near several South American nations. The Trump administration has countered these claims by accusing Petro of being soft on traffickers and imposed financial sanctions on him and his family. Meanwhile, the U.S. is increasing its naval presence in the Caribbean, raising concerns from Venezuela, which views this buildup as a threat to its sovereignty.
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Ukraine’s drone industry is experiencing significant expansion into Europe, driven by the war with Russia and growing demand from NATO members. Leading Ukrainian drone manufacturers, like TSIR, are establishing production facilities in NATO countries like Finland, in partnership with local firms, to produce tactical drones for both Ukrainian and allied forces. This trend includes raising funds for additional production and R&D projects, and has led to the establishment of arms export offices in several European countries. With a rapidly growing drone production capacity, Ukraine is producing more drone varieties than all NATO countries combined, potentially transforming NATO’s approach to unmanned warfare.
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A recent UC San Diego study suggests that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists may significantly improve outcomes for colon cancer patients. Researchers analyzed data from over 6,800 patients, finding those taking GLP-1 medications had less than half the five-year mortality rate compared to those not on the drugs. This protective effect remained even after accounting for various health factors, with a more pronounced benefit in patients with high BMIs. While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, the results point to potential anti-cancer benefits beyond the drugs’ known effects on blood sugar, inflammation, and weight.
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In November 2023, the Bratislava prosecutor’s office announced that Slovakia’s 2023 transfer of MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine was not a criminal offense. The previous Slovak government, led by Eduard Heger, had donated the aircraft, making Slovakia the first to send warplanes to Kyiv after Russia’s full-scale invasion. The current government, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, had filed a criminal complaint against Heger and former Defense Minister Jaroslav Nad, but the investigation concluded the donation caused no harm to Slovakia and that officials did not act unlawfully. Nad has since welcomed the decision and expects a public apology from the current government.
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John Q. Hosedrinker