Russia launched an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), designated “Oreshnik,” targeting Dnipro, Ukraine. Thirty minutes prior, Russia provided the U.S. with advance notification via nuclear risk reduction channels. This test, confirmed by both U.S. and Russian officials, followed prior U.S. warnings to Ukraine and allies of a potential Russian missile test. The attack, which included other missile types, occurred amidst a nationwide air raid alert.
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Two undersea internet cables in the Baltic Sea were damaged, prompting investigations by Sweden and Finland into suspected sabotage. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated his belief that the incidents were likely acts of sabotage, echoing concerns expressed by Finnish and German foreign ministers regarding potential hybrid warfare. While US officials initially suggested accidental damage, evidence suggests a pattern consistent with previous attacks linked to Russia, who has shown increased interest in undersea infrastructure. The limited disruption caused may indicate a deliberate escalation tactic.
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A Ukrainian air strike in the Kursk region injured a senior North Korean general fighting alongside Russian forces. This marks the first confirmed injury of a high-ranking North Korean military officer since their deployment. The incident follows reports of at least 10,000 North Korean troops in the region supporting Russian forces and prompted international condemnation. The involvement of North Korean troops is considered a significant escalation, contributing to recent decisions by the US and its allies to provide Ukraine with longer-range weaponry.
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Satellite imagery analysis by the Open Source Centre reveals that Russia has provided North Korea with over one million barrels of oil since March 2024, violating UN sanctions. This oil is believed to be compensation for weapons and troops North Korea has supplied to Russia for its war in Ukraine. These transfers, documented across 43 tanker voyages, represent a significant breach of international agreements and demonstrate a deepening relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang. Experts warn that this oil-for-arms exchange destabilizes regional security and shows disregard for international sanctions.
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Health officials have declared a whooping cough epidemic in New Zealand, with 263 cases reported in the past month—the highest monthly total of 2024. Babies are at greatest risk of severe illness or death from this highly contagious infection. The epidemic’s severity is attributed to lower infection rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, disproportionately impacting Māori and Pacific infants. Authorities emphasize the importance of timely infant vaccinations and maternal vaccination during pregnancy to mitigate the risk.
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The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister, and Hamas officials, charging them with war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict. The decision, though unlikely to lead to immediate arrests due to Israel’s non-membership in the ICC and the deaths of some Hamas officials, is expected to further complicate peace negotiations. The warrants stem from allegations of intentionally depriving Gaza’s civilian population of essential resources. Israel strongly condemned the decision, citing its independent legal system and alleging bias.
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Facing intensified Russian attacks and dwindling ammunition, the Ukrainian military increasingly relies on its drone units, which are responsible for at least 80% of Russian frontline losses. A shortage of HIMARS rockets further highlights the ammunition crisis, forcing a greater reliance on drone warfare despite these units becoming prime targets for sophisticated Russian countermeasures. Ukraine’s domestic drone production has surged to meet this demand, exceeding its annual production goal in October, though Western arms supplies remain slow to arrive alongside recruitment challenges. This dependence underscores a critical arms race shaping the conflict.
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In a groundbreaking procedure, Kyiv doctors successfully performed the world’s first cardiac surgery on a newborn immediately following a cesarean section. The surgery, which took place in a combined operating room designed to mimic a womb-like environment, corrected a life-threatening congenital heart defect (transposition of the great arteries). The mother, hailing from Moldova, sought treatment at the Ukrainian cardiology center after her child’s condition was diagnosed prenatally. The combined efforts of the Kyiv Perinatal Center and the Center of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery resulted in the successful and life-saving operation.
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The United States imposed sanctions on Gazprombank, the last major Russian bank not previously sanctioned, citing its role in facilitating Russia’s military operations, including equipment purchases and soldier payments. These sanctions target Gazprombank and six subsidiaries, significantly limiting its access to global finance. While the US previously avoided sanctioning the bank to maintain European gas supplies, this decision reflects a shift in energy dynamics and aims to further degrade Russia’s war machine. The sanctions also target over 50 other Russian banks and 15 officials, and warn against participation in Russia’s alternative financial messaging system.
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Brazilian federal police indicted former President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 others for allegedly attempting a coup following the 2022 election. The sealed indictment, delivered to the Supreme Court, alleges a plot to keep Bolsonaro in power after his electoral defeat. Among those indicted are several high-ranking military officials and political allies. The Supreme Court will forward the case to the Prosecutor-General, who will decide whether to proceed with formal charges and a trial. This indictment is one of several legal challenges Bolsonaro faces.
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John Q. Hosedrinker