online game free US to send $1.25 billion in weapons to Ukraine, pushing to get aid out before Biden leaves office WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials say the United States is expected to announce it will send another $1.25 billion in military assistance to Ukraine. It's part of a push by the Biden administration to get as much aid to Kyiv as possible before leaving office on Jan. 20. Officials say the large package of aid includes a significant amount of munitions, including for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems and the HAWK air defense system. It also will provide Stinger missiles and 155 mm- and 105 mm artillery rounds. The officials say they expect the announcement will be made on Monday. They spoke on condition of anonymity to provide details not yet made public. An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in the president-elect’s political movement into public display. The argument previews fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — that is, wealthy members of the tech world who want more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says a ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, a deputy national security adviser, said Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. Israeli troops burn northern Gaza hospital after forcibly removing staff and patients, officials say DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Gaza's Health Ministry says Israeli troops have stormed one of the last hospitals operating in the territory's north on Friday and forced many of the staff and patients outside. Then they had to remove their clothes in winter weather. It was the latest assault on Kamal Adwan Hospital. Parts of it were set on fire. Staff say it has been hit multiple times in the past three months by Israeli troops waging an offensive against Hamas fighters in surrounding neighborhoods. Israel's military says Hamas uses the hospital as a base. It did not provide evidence, and hospital officials have denied it. Azerbaijani and U.S. officials suggest plane that crashed may have been hit by weapons fire U.S. and Azerbaijani officials have said weapons fire may have brought down an Azerbaijani airliner that crashed on Wednesday, killing 38 people. The statements from Rashad Nabiyev and White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Friday raised pressure on Russia. Officials in Moscow have said a drone attack was underway in the region that the Azerbaijan Airlines flight was destined for but have not addressed statements from aviation experts who blamed the crash on Russian air defenses responding to a Ukrainian attack. The plane was flying from Azerbaijan’s capital of Baku to Chechnya on Wednesday when it crashed, killing 38 people and leaving all 29 survivors injured. Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case ATLANTA (AP) — A judge has ruled that the Georgia state Senate can subpoena Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. It's part of a inquiry into whether Willis has engaged in misconduct during her prosecution of President-elect Donald Trump. But Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shukura Ingram is giving Willis the chance to contest whether lawmakers’ demands are overly broad before Willis responds. A Republican-led committee was formed earlier this year and sent subpoenas to Willis in August seeking to compel her to testify during its September meeting and to produce scores of documents. Willis argued that the committee didn’t have the power to subpoena her. US homelessness up 18% as affordable housing remains out of reach for many people Federal officials say the United States saw an 18.1% increase in homelessness, a dramatic rise driven mostly by a lack of affordable housing as well as devastating natural disasters and a surge of migrants in several parts of the country. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said that federally required tallies taken across the country in January found that more than 770,000 people were counted as homeless. That increase comes on top of a 12% increase in 2023, which HUD blamed on soaring rents and the end of pandemic assistance. Among the most concerning trends was a nearly 40% rise in family homelessness. In states that ban abortion, social safety net programs often fail families MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee has a nearly total abortion ban and a porous safety net for mothers and young children. GOP state leaders in Tennessee and other states that banned abortion after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 argue that they are bolstering services for families. Recent research and an analysis by The Associated Press has found that from the time a Tennessee woman gets pregnant, she faces greater obstacles to a healthy pregnancy, a healthy child and a financially stable family life than the average American mom. What Snoop wants: Arizona Bowl gives NIL opportunities to players for Colorado State, Miami (Ohio) TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — When Snoop Dogg agreed to become the sponsor of the Arizona Bowl, he had a demand: It must have a NIL component. Other bowls have provided NIL chances for single players the past few years, but the Arizona Bowl is believed to be the first to offer NIL compensation to every player on both Colorado State and Miami (Ohio). The players participated in youth clinics before Saturday's game and will be compensated for their time. Alex Ovechkin is on track to break Wayne Gretzky's NHL career goals record Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals is chasing the NHL career goals record of 894 held by Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin entered the season 42 goals short of breaking a record that long seemed unapproachable. He is set to play again Saturday at the Toronto Maple Leafs after missing more than a month with a broken left fibula. Ovechkin was on pace to get to 895 sometime in February before getting injured. At 868, he his 27 goals away from passing Gretzky.

Thunderbird Entertainment Group Announces Completion of Annual Grant of RSUs and PSUs to Board of Directors and Executive Management and Renegotiated CEO CompensationArsenal up to second after Kai Havertz goal sees off struggling IpswichFox & Fiancée: Sean Hannity is engaged to fellow Fox News host Ainsley Earhardt

Tesla ( TSLA -4.75% ) shares have been soaring since the U.S. election in early November. But as the trading week comes to a close, the stock is on track to have its second consecutive losing day. As of 12:35 p.m. ET Friday, Tesla shares were down 4.3%. Yet, they have still soared by 70% over the past three months. Most of that gain has come after Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election with backing from Tesla CEO Elon Musk . Tesla needs a record fourth quarter The pause in the rally is coming as we approach the end of the year, with investors realizing the company may not hit 2023 electric vehicle (EV) delivery numbers. Tesla must deliver about 515,000 EVs in the fourth quarter to match the 1.8 million units shipped in 2023. A push to ship vehicles at the end of the year is common, however. Tesla's record quarterly delivery was almost 485,000 vehicles in last year's fourth quarter. But analysts, on average, think the company might come up just shy of Tesla's target this year, predicting 510,000 unit sales. After the stock's monster run over the last several months, a miss on fourth-quarter shipments will likely push the stock lower. Some investors are betting that's what will come when Tesla releases its fourth-quarter production and delivery figures next week. One bright spot that could outperform expectations is Tesla's sales in China. Reports show that the fourth quarter is looking strong for Tesla's China sales, with nearly 22,000 EVs sold during the first week of this month. That would be the best week of the fourth quarter. Long-term investors shouldn't worry too much about quarterly data, though. Much of the recent run in Tesla stock came from expectations that its autonomous driving technology is getting closer to reality, with the White House potentially easing regulatory hurdles for Musk and his team. If Tesla can offer leading self-driving software to customers, it could be a huge revenue source for the company. Investors who believe that's coming should buy the dip.

Tesla ( TSLA -4.75% ) shares have been soaring since the U.S. election in early November. But as the trading week comes to a close, the stock is on track to have its second consecutive losing day. As of 12:35 p.m. ET Friday, Tesla shares were down 4.3%. Yet, they have still soared by 70% over the past three months. Most of that gain has come after Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election with backing from Tesla CEO Elon Musk . Tesla needs a record fourth quarter The pause in the rally is coming as we approach the end of the year, with investors realizing the company may not hit 2023 electric vehicle (EV) delivery numbers. Tesla must deliver about 515,000 EVs in the fourth quarter to match the 1.8 million units shipped in 2023. A push to ship vehicles at the end of the year is common, however. Tesla's record quarterly delivery was almost 485,000 vehicles in last year's fourth quarter. But analysts, on average, think the company might come up just shy of Tesla's target this year, predicting 510,000 unit sales. After the stock's monster run over the last several months, a miss on fourth-quarter shipments will likely push the stock lower. Some investors are betting that's what will come when Tesla releases its fourth-quarter production and delivery figures next week. One bright spot that could outperform expectations is Tesla's sales in China. Reports show that the fourth quarter is looking strong for Tesla's China sales, with nearly 22,000 EVs sold during the first week of this month. That would be the best week of the fourth quarter. Long-term investors shouldn't worry too much about quarterly data, though. Much of the recent run in Tesla stock came from expectations that its autonomous driving technology is getting closer to reality, with the White House potentially easing regulatory hurdles for Musk and his team. If Tesla can offer leading self-driving software to customers, it could be a huge revenue source for the company. Investors who believe that's coming should buy the dip.Dallas Cowboys star guard Zack Martin is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Washington Commanders due to ankle and shoulder injuries. Martin didn't practice at all this week. He also physically struggled during Monday night's loss to the Houston Texas. Martin, who turned 34 on Wednesday, has started all 162 games played in 11 seasons with the Cowboys. He's a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and a seven-time first-team All-Pro. Tight end Jake Ferguson (concussion) and safety Markquese Bell (shoulder) have been ruled out. Neither player practiced this week after being hurt against the Texans. Cornerback DaRon Bland (foot) practiced in full this week and will make his season debut. He was injured in August. Star wideout CeeDee Lamb (back/foot) was a full practice participant on Friday and is good to go. Cornerback Trevon Diggs (groin/knee) and receiver Brandin Cooks (knee) are among six players listed as questionable. The others are offensive tackle Chuma Edoga (toe), guard Tyler Smith (ankle/knee), defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (knee) and linebacker Nick Vigil (foot). --Field Level Media

Two more Hindu priests were arrested in Bangladesh, ISKCON Kolkata spokesperson Radharamn Das claimed on Saturday. Speaking to PTI, Radharamn Das said, "I have received information that two more ISKCON monks have been arrested by police in Bangladesh." In a post on X on Friday night, Radharamn Das said, "In the meantime, bad news has come: two devotees who went with prasad for Chinmaya Prabhu were arrested on their way back to the temple, and Chinmaya prabhu's secretary is also missing. Please pray for them." Earlier on Friday, Radharamn had posted, "Another Brahmachari, Sri Shyam Das Prabhu, was arrested by Chattogram Police today." "Does he look like a terrorist? #FreeISKCONMonks Bangladesh. The arrest of innocent #ISKCON brahmacharis are deeply shocking & disturbing," Radharamn posted on X on Saturday. His comments comes comes in the backdrop of unconfirmed reports of arrest of three more ISKCON monks, days after the arrest of spiritual leader Chinmay Das. Chinmaya Das, who also served as a spokesperson for Bangladesh Sammilita Sanatani Jagran Jote, was arrested at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Monday while en route to Chattogram to attend a rally. He was denied bail and sent to jail on Tuesday by the Chattogram Sixth Metropolitan Magistrate Court. Historically, Hindus made up approximately 22 per cent of Bangladesh's population during the 1971 Liberation War. The Hindu population, once a substantial demographic in Bangladesh, has experienced a significant decline in recent decades, with the minority community now comprising only around 8 per cent of the country's total population. This drop is largely attributed to a combination of socio-political marginalisation, exodus and sporadic violence over the years. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

NEEDHAM, Mass. , Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tripadvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP) announced today that Mike Noonan , CFO, will host investor meetings at the UBS Global Technology Conference on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 , in Scottsdale, Arizona. About Tripadvisor, Inc. The Tripadvisor Group operates as a family of brands that connects people to experiences worth sharing, and aims to be the world's most trusted source for travel and experiences. We leverage our brands, technology, and capabilities to connect our global audience with partners through rich content, travel guidance, and two-sided marketplaces for experiences, accommodations, restaurants, and other travel categories. The subsidiaries of Tripadvisor, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRIP), own and operate a portfolio of travel media brands and businesses, including Tripadvisor, Viator, and TheFork. TRIP-G View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tripadvisor-announces-participation-at-upcoming-conference-302310129.html SOURCE Tripadvisor

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Fresh off one of its best showings of the season, the Baltimore defense now has another problem to worry about. Roquan Smith missed practice again Friday because of a hamstring injury. Although the Ravens didn't officially rule him or anyone else out — they don't play until Monday night — the All-Pro linebacker's status seems dicey. “Definitely it will be a challenge if Roquan can’t go,” defensive coordinator Zach Orr said. “We’re holding out hope and everything like that. I think it’ll just be by committee. Not one person is going to replace Roquan. Roquan’s an every-down linebacker.” Although the Ravens lost 18-16 last weekend, Baltimore didn't allow a touchdown. That was an encouraging sign for a team that ranks 26th in the league in total defense. Baltimore is on the road Monday against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Ravens appear to have dodged one potential nightmare. Star safety Kyle Hamilton injured an ankle against Cincinnati on Nov. 7, but he was able to play almost every defensive snap the following week against Pittsburgh. But Smith was injured in that game and didn't practice Thursday or Friday. Linebacker Malik Harrison had a season high in tackles last weekend and figures to have a significant role if Smith can't go. “We tell these guys, ‘You’re one play away to going in there — you never know, so you got to stay ready.’ Malik — he was ready,” Orr said. “I thought he went in there and did a good job, especially after the first series, he settled down. That’s what we expect from him.” It's hard to tell whether last week can be a significant turning point for Baltimore's defense. The Ravens allowed only 10 points in a dominant win over Buffalo in Week 4, then yielded 38 against Cincinnati the following game. After allowing 10 against Denver, the Ravens were picked apart by the Bengals again a few days later. So they still haven't shown they can play a good game defensively and then build on it. “I think it’s easier said than done. It’s something that we kind of got caught up saying against Buffalo and then coming up the next week and not doing," Hamilton said. "We’re aware of it now and know that we played a good game, but I think we can get a lot better, and I think that’s kind of the mindset everybody on defense has right now.” Hamilton's ability to make a difference all over the field is part of what makes him valuable, but positioning him deep is one way the Ravens can try to guard against big passing plays. Pittsburgh's Russell Wilson threw for only 205 yards against Baltimore. That's after Joe Burrow passed for 428 and four touchdowns in the Ravens' previous game. “I’ve always seen myself as a safety. A versatile one, but at the end of the day, I think I play safety,” Hamilton said. “If I’m asked to go play safety, I feel like that’s not an issue for me to play safety if I’m a safety.” NOTES: In addition to Smith, WR Rashod Bateman (knee), DT Travis Jones (ankle), S Sanoussi Kane (ankle) C Tyler Linderbaum (back) and CB Arthur Maulet (calf) missed practice Friday. WR Nelson Agholor (illness) returned to full participation after missing Thursday's practice. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL

Minera Don Nicolas Enters Option Agreement with AngloGold Ashanti Argentinian Subsidiary, Cerro Vanguardia SA, for the Sale of its Michelle Exploration Properties for Total Consideration of US$14 Million

A huge crocodile that rose to fame with a cameo in hit film Crocodile Dundee has died. Burt died over the weekend, the Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, said. He was at least 90 years old. “Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm,” Crocosaurus Cove wrote in social media posts. A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 16 feet long. He was captured in the 1980s in the Reynolds River and became one of the most well-known crocodiles in the world, according to Crocosaurus Cove. The 1986 film stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile before being saved by Dundee. Burt is briefly shown lunging out of the water. But the creature shown in more detail as Dundee saves the day is apparently something else. The Internet Movie Database says the film made a mistake by depicting an American alligator, which has a blunter snout. The Australian aquarium where Burt had lived since 2008 features a Cage of Death which it says is the nation’s only crocodile dive. It said it planned to honour Burt’s legacy with a commemorative sign “celebrating his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park”.Los Angeles Galaxy's Gabriel Pec and Wife Isabella's Relationship Timeline

Anthony Edwards’ leadership had to take another step forward this week for TimberwolvesFor the new Jeep Wagoneer S ad campaign, beauty rhymes with dirty

Trump vows to ‘stop transgender lunacy’ as top priority

The long-awaited hearing to discuss cannabis rescheduling will begin on January 21, 2025 , marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate over cannabis regulation. As Business of Cannabis reported , the six-week hearing will continue until March 6, 2025 , but its outcome remains uncertain due to political and procedural challenges. With key positions in the new administration still unconfirmed, many questions remain about how much influence the incoming cabinet will have on the hearings. This uncertainty has raised concerns over the DEA’s impartiality and the fairness of the process. Legal Challenges From Health Coalitions And Advocates In a move that has added to the controversy, the Doctors for Drug Policy Reform has filed a federal court petition challenging the DEA's exclusion from the hearings. According to Businnes of Cannabis, the group argues that their medical expertise is essential for evaluating the implications of cannabis rescheduling, particularly regarding medical marijuana prescriptions. Additionally, weeks ago, the agency denied MedPharm's bid to join the December 2 hearing . MedPharm , a DEA-registered research firm, criticized the exclusion of marijuana researchers and the inclusion of prohibitionist organizations such as Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) . SAM has been also at the center of the controversy. On November 28, attorney Matt Zorn sued the DEA for failing to release records related to its communications with the organization. The DEA dismissed them as "gossip," arguing that there was no illegal contact, despite SAM President Kevin Sabet admitting to discussing the details of the rescheduling with DEA insiders. SAM also denied that the conversations had anything to do with the rescheduling procedure. Earlier in November, the Veterans Action Council , a cannabis advocacy organization for military veterans, filed a petition challenging its exclusion from the DEA’s participant list, published in October. The petiton followed the withdrawal of some designated participants and growing scrutiny over the agency's handling of the rescheduling process. Several organizations have pulled out of the hearings since the initial announcement. The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine missed important procedural deadlines, while an oncologist representing the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine opted not to participate. Additionally, five remaining participants are represented by David Evans , a prominent anti-cannabis advocate, highlighting the polarized nature of the upcoming hearings. Scheduled Presentations And Participants The DEA has outlined a strict schedule for the hearings, featuring presentations from various stakeholders, including industry groups, law enforcement and medical professionals. Notable participants include the National Cannabis Industry Association and Smart Approaches to Marijuana , among others. The schedule includes: January 21 : Presentation by the government January 22-23 : Presentations from Hemp for Victory , Cannabis Bioscience International Holdings and other groups January 28-30 : Presentations from the Connecticut Office of the Cannabis Ombudsman , National Cannabis Industry Association and additional participants February 4-6 : Presentations from The Commonwealth Project , Veterans Initiative 22 and others February 18-20 : Presentations from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation , International Association of Chiefs of Police and more February 25-27 : Presentations from Smart Approaches to Marijuana , Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America and other stakeholders March 4-6 : Presentations from Dr. Kenneth Finn , N ational Drug and Alcohol Screening Association and others. Public Comments Excluded From the Process Although more than 43,000 public comments were submitted during the 60-day comment period, the DEA has ruled that these comments will not be accepted as evidence, citing the limitations of the Administrative Procedure Act. This decision has generated criticism from cannabis advocates and industry leaders. High Stakes For The Industry Reclassifying marijuana could provide significant advantages to the U.S. cannabis industry . It would ease research and financial restrictions, improve access to banking and reduce legal challenges, enabling businesses to operate more freely. A Schedule III classification could also lead to broader insurance coverage and more federal funding for cannabis research, potentially fostering growth, investment and innovation. Advocates argue that rescheduling would enhance regulation and increase access to medical cannabis, but given the complexities of the process, the final decision may still be months away, with lasting impacts on the industry. Cover image made with AI © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Tahj Brooks carried for a season-high 188 yards and three scores in his final home game as a Red Raider as Texas Tech dominated West Virginia 52-15 at Jones AT&T Stadium on Saturday. Brooks leaves as Tech's all-time leading rusher and put on a clinic against the Mountaineers before leaving the game late in the fourth quarter to the cheers of fans and teammates. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Thanks for the feedback.

Donald Trump’s decision to appoint former US Senator David Perdue as ambassador to Beijing signals a pragmatic approach to US-China relations that’s likely to be welcomed by international investors. As a former CEO with a wealth of experience in Asia, Perdue brings a business-savvy perspective to the diplomatic arena at a time when US-China relations are increasingly influential in global markets. With tensions between the two economic superpowers at a peak, Perdue’s appointment could help steer diplomatic conversations toward more economically advantageous outcomes, benefiting global investors. The US-China economic relationship has been a central focus of international investment strategies, and Perdue’s experience gives him a unique insight into this critical area. As a former Fortune 500 chief executive and a US senator who has lived in Hong Kong and Singapore, Perdue possesses deep connections and an understanding of the commercial and political nuances of the Asian market. For investors, this connection could be seen as a positive development in terms of shaping a more stable and productive relationship between the US and China, offering new investment opportunities and strategies in Asia. What sets Perdue apart from other diplomatic appointments is his focus on business and economic negotiations. Unlike the more hard-line foreign policy approach seen in other senior appointments, such as Marco Rubio for Secretary of State and Mike Waltz for National Security Advisor, Perdue’s background as a corporate leader suggests a more economically focused strategy. This could be of particular interest to investors, as business-driven diplomacy offers more predictability and less volatility, especially when it comes to trade agreements and economic partnerships. For investors in sectors that are heavily intertwined with US-China trade, Perdue’s appointment offers potential stability. The former senator’s expertise could help facilitate trade negotiations, ensuring a more predictable environment for companies with business interests in China. His strategic leadership may be crucial in navigating the delicate trade relationships between the US and China, as businesses continue to seek clarity on tariffs, trade barriers, and the future of the global supply chain. While Trump’s administration has been marked by a strong stance against Chinese trade practices in the past, Perdue’s appointment could suggest a shift toward maintaining the US’s economic interests while continuing engagement with China. This approach is likely to lead to a more balanced negotiation strategy that offers benefits for both economies. For international investors, this means a reduction in geopolitical uncertainty and potential pathways for the US and China to work collaboratively rather than competitively. Perdue’s appointment also aligns with the growing trend of leveraging corporate experience in high-level diplomatic roles. As global trade expands, and cross-border economic relationships become more complex, traditional diplomacy may no longer be enough to address the needs of modern economies. His background in business provides him with the tools to engage China on an economic level that is less concerned with ideological divides and more focused on pragmatic solutions for trade and investment. The shift toward a more business-focused diplomatic approach is likely to be reassuring for investors who have faced a challenging environment in the wake of tariffs and trade restrictions. Perdue’s track record in navigating complex international markets suggests that he can foster stronger business ties, reduce the risk of sudden policy shifts and create a more conducive environment for investment. With China being the world’s second largest economy, strengthening ties with Washington will be crucial for sustaining global market growth. Moreover, Perdue’s deep understanding of the Chinese market and business culture offers investors a unique advantage. Companies and financial institutions that are actively engaged in Asia will benefit from having someone in a key diplomatic position who knows how to drive economic deals forward. Investors in sectors such as technology, finance, and manufacturing — industries that rely heavily on US-China relations — are likely to view this appointment as a positive development for long-term stability. While Perdue’s appointment represents a more pragmatic approach to US-China relations, it also highlights a broader trend of economic diplomacy that could shape future global investment strategies. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, investors will look for signs that global economic relations are moving towards cooperative, rather than confrontational, solutions. Perdue’s appointment, therefore, offers hope that the US can maintain a productive working relationship with China, keeping markets stable and ensuring that international trade continues to flourish. For international investors, particularly those with exposure to the US and Chinese markets, Perdue’s appointment as ambassador to Beijing is seen as a potentially pivotal moment. By aligning economic and diplomatic interests, Perdue has the opportunity to shape US-China relations in ways that benefit investors and ensure continued growth in the global economy.Beloved British animated couple Wallace and Gromit are returning to screens in their first feature-length film in 20 years for a typically mad-cap adventure that spotlights the dangers of technology in the wrong hands. "Vengeance Most Fowl" will air on the BBC on Christmas Day for the first time before being made available on the Netflix platform from January 3 worldwide. Inventor and director Nick Park has returned to the technology theme that he explored in his 1993 Oscar-winning hit "The Wrong Trousers", but updated to take into account the advent of artificial intelligence (AI). The tale centers on tea and cheese-loving Wallace's latest invention: an "intelligent" robotic gnome called Norbot, which helps around the house and garden, threatening to replace the ever-loyal Gromit, who takes pride in the daily tasks of life. "Wallace is completely deluded and obsessed, whereas Gromit represents the human touch," Park told AFP in a pre-release interview. "He likes doing his gardening. It's not about just seeing an end result, it's the act of doing that is enjoyable. "I love the fact that we have technology. We have to just sometimes ask: is it always enhancing our lives and our relationships, or is it somehow diminishing them in some way?" Park has shown loyalty to the idea of "doing" throughout his four-decade career and still insists on real-world modelling to create Wallace and Gromit instead of resorting to computerised imagery. At his Aardman Animations studio -- makers of other hits including "Chicken Run" and "Shaun the Sheep" -- films are shot frame-by-frame, with clay models slowly moved and altered in a technique known as "stop motion" that dates back to the dawn of cinema. At their fastest rate, the 200-person production team for "Vengeance Most Fowl" produced two minutes of film per week. "Everything's made by real human beings and that hopefully shines off the screen," Park said. The limitations actually spur creativity, he insists, and are a core part of the franchise's appeal. "With CGI (computer-generated imagery) I guess you are tempted to just use it to the full. You've got everything at your disposal," he said. "Whereas I think if you don't have that, you tend to be more creative with what little you've got." The film sees the return of the villainous penguin Feathers McGraw from "The Wrong Trousers", which won an Oscar for best short animated film. Feathers McGraw is blank-faced throughout, but his on-screen menace is always obvious -- often to comical effect -- while a full range of emotions are expressed, as ever, through the legendary eyebrows of Gromit. "Very small nuanced movements can say a lot," Park said. One small change to listen out for in the new film is Wallace's new voice after the death of English actor Peter Sallis, who had played him since his debut in 1989. Sallis has been replaced by Ben Whitehead, an English voice artist and actor who collaborated with Park on the last full-length Wallace and Gromit film, "The Curse of the Were-Rabbit", released in 2005.

Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti says police have made arrests after an explosion hit a canal that sends water to its two main power plants, an incident officials in Pristina labelled a "terrorist act" by neighbouring Serbia. Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic denied what he said were "baseless accusations" about his country's involvement. "Police have carried out raids. There are arrests," Kurti told reporters from the scene near the northern town of Zubin Potok, where he repeated allegations that elements in Serbia were responsible for the attack. He said that police had found evidence, and that all those involved would "face justice". It was not clear if those arrested were directly involved in the blast. This evening, another terrorist attack was carried out in the north of Kosova, marking the third explosion in the past three days. This latest attack targeted critical infrastructure, including water supply and electricity production. Our government will hold those responsible...— Albin Kurti (@albinkurti) November 30, 2024 A Reuters witness saw special police forces carrying out raids in northern Kosovo. The explosion has increased tensions between Kosovo and Serbia. Ethnic Albanian-majority Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 almost a decade after a guerrilla uprising against its rule but Serbia has not recognised Kosovo as an independent state. Relations remain especially frayed in the north where the blast occurred, and where the Serb minority refuses to recognise Kosovo's statehood and still sees Belgrade as their capital. The explosion occurred about 7pm on Friday. The exact cause was not clear. Kosovo's Security Council, which held emergency talks early on Saturday, said it had activated armed forces to prevent similar attacks. Security was already heightened after two recent attacks where hand grenades were hurled at a police station and municipality building in northern Kosovo where ethnic Serbians live. "The Security Council has approved additional measures to strengthen security around critical facilities and services such as bridges, transformer stations, antennas, lakes, canals," the council said in a statement on Saturday. The NATO military alliance, which has maintained a peacekeeping force in Kosovo since 1999, condemned the attack in a statement on Saturday. Its personnel have provided security to the canal and the surrounding area since the blast, it said. A Reuters reporter visited the site on Saturday, where silt had poured through a hole in the canal's concrete wall. Workers had installed a series of large tubes to bypass the leak. Power supplies appeared to be largely intact but drinking water supply was disrupted to some areas. Energy minister Artane Rizvanolli said Kosovo was co-ordinating with Albania's power company to provide more electricity. She said water will be trucked to affected areas.The lush river valleys of El Zaino y La Arenosa in western Panama, home to hundreds of families that eke out a living farming, fishing and raising cattle, could soon be submerged by a massive man-made reservoir designed to ensure the viability of the Panama Canal in the face of a changing climate. Tres Hermanas, with its farms, two schools, churches and a medical clinic, is one of dozens of towns that would disappear in the next six years if the state-owned Panama Canal's ambitious $1.6 billion project goes ahead. Residents are divided: some do not want to leave, while others are focused on getting fair compensation if they are forced to move. If they are not satisfied, recent history suggests public opposition could endanger the entire project. While the Rio Indio dam project was first proposed two decades ago, more extreme weather in the last decade, including a severe drought in the past year that restricted vessel traffic on the canal, has lent greater urgency to the proposal. The canal accounts for 3.1% of the Central American country's gross domestic product. The waterway, which allows up to 14,000 ships to cross per year, accounts for 2.5% of global seaborne trade and is critical to U.S. imports of autos and commercial goods by container ships from Asia, and for U.S exports of commodities, including liquefied natural gas (LNG). "The Rio Indio reservoir project would be the most complete solution (to more frequent droughts) in a 50-year horizon," the canal's deputy administrator, Ilya Espino de Marotta, told Reuters in an interview in October. The project still needs to pass a long approval process including a public consultation, discussion by the cabinet and the National Assembly's final green light. Panama's President Jose Mulino has said the discussion will be completed next year, but the shipping industry is watching with some trepidation after delays and suspensions of major projects in recent years, including a controversial mining contract with Canada's First Quantum Minerals. After broad public opposition, the Supreme Court last year declared the contract unconstitutional, and the government ordered the mine to be closed. Although the number of people facing relocation for the dam is relatively small, they are backed by an activist group called Countrymen Coordinator for Life, which was instrumental in blocking First Quantum's mining contract. Cesar Petit, senior economist at BancTrust & Co, an investment bank specializing in emerging markets, said there was political consensus in Panama behind the dam project but the government would need to establish a credible plan for compensating people who will be displaced and affected in nearby areas. "There are significant risks that the project to build the multipurpose reservoir on the Rio Indio will be postponed or suspended indefinitely," Petit told Reuters. "The communication strategy of the benefits of the plans and an adequate incentive and compensation program for those affected will be key to successfully implementing this plan." Jose Icaza, minister for Canal Affairs, told Reuters the government understands the "anxiety and concerns" of residents. "Our priority is not to impact the living conditions and the peace of the basin's residents, and for this reason we will continue to work directly with them to meet their needs as we move forward with the construction project," he said. The Panama Canal Authority aims to create a massive dam 840 meters in length and 80.5 meters in height to secure freshwater for its locks. It says the reservoir's 1.25 billion cubic meters of water would allow up to 15 additional vessel transits per day during the dry season, and help provide drinking water to Panama's growing 4.5 million population. Unlike the Suez Canal, which does not have locks, the Panama Canal relies on fresh water to operate three sets of locks that allow ships to cross between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans through a 50-mile artificial waterway. If it wins approval, the dam is expected to be completed by 2030 or 2031, but the clock is ticking: Last year was the third driest in the waterway's 110-year history. The second driest was 2015. Meteorologists forecast Panama will face more severe droughts and faster water evaporation due to higher temperatures in the future. A Supreme Court ruling in July returned to the canal authority a geographic area that almost doubles its territory. It can now be used to expand business and secure water sources, including the dam. According to an initial survey by the canal, the project would demand the relocation of some 2,260 people, and would impact at least partially an additional 2,000 people in the reservoir zone. A census to count more accurately how many people will be affected is expected to be completed in January, Espino said, while some infrastructure work by Panama's government, including a bridge that could accommodate heavy equipment, is visible in the Tres Hermanas area. Panama's ministry of Public Works said in a release the bridge is intended to be used for cars and people to cross the Rio Indio. "There is already a start," Espino said, referring to planning linked to the project's technical aspects. "But of course, the most complicated part is the process of resettling people. These are conversations that have to be held individually with each family." STAY OR GO? Three lawyers and activists from community groups said the Rio Indio plan would have a "high environmental impact" due to deforestation and loss of biodiversity in regions including Capira, west of Panama City. The project, which includes a $400 million budget for its social component, mainly relocations, has divided residents. Some are willing to sell their land and move, while others want to fight the project. "No farmer wants to live in a slum," said Dilubino Agraje, who represents the Rio Indio communities at Countrymen Coordinator for Life. The organization is pressing for more details about the relocation plans. "We were born and raised here. If we leave, it is not because we want to, but because we'll have to," said 60-year-old Paulino Alabarca, a rice farmer born in Tres Hermanas, while riding through the town on his horse. A different plan to transfer water from an existing reservoir fed by the Bayano river that could be finished sooner and would not require family relocations was analyzed and discarded by the canal's administration years ago because of location and higher costs, Espino said. From an environmental damage point of view, the Rio Indio project could have a greater negative impact and few positive benefits that could not be obtained otherwise, said Professor LeRoy Poff, an expert on aquatic ecology from Colorado State University, referring to displacement of people and livelihoods, damages downstream for the fish and for the forests. "There is a real importance, as we go forward amid climate change, in maintaining healthy rivers, because they have the greatest potential to respond to changing environments," he added. The Bayano alternative is gaining traction among many communities, including Tres Hermanas. "There are means for them to leave us alone," said Alabarca referring to that project. But it could bring different complications as it would involve negotiations with power provider AES Panama, a company jointly owned by the state and U.S. AES Corp that owns and operates the Bayano hydroelectric infrastructure, according to lawyers studying that project. AES Panama "is not currently in any process of selling its stakes," it told Reuters in an email. "However, fully understanding the issue and its importance for the country, it is in the best disposition and open to talk to the state to evaluate and reach fair agreements." Canal minister Icaza said the Rio Indio project was imperative for the canal's survival and "the most viable option." Espino said she thinks both projects will be needed in the long run. "Climate change has really ruined the natural navigation channels that existed," she said. The recurrence of the El Niño weather phenomenon has accelerated to every three years, extending Panama's dry season and exhausting much of the water resources in the country with the fifth most rainfall in the world. Its next occurrence, expected in 2027, will be a challenge for the canal again since the Rio Indio project is not expected to be ready before 2030, the canal's chief, Ricaurte Vasquez, told Reuters. In preparation for the next drought, the canal has changed its reservation model, is calling on shippers to consolidate cargoes and is preparing water recycling measures. In recent years, the expansion of housing near the waterway has intensified the canal's competition with its surrounding communities for freshwater, said Panama City-based environmentalist Raisa Banfield. "The canal exists and the canal must operate as efficiently as possible," Banfield said. But, she added, there needs to be a balance. "The question is... How much are we going to sacrifice to continue passing ships, and more ships and bigger ships?"Burt, the huge crocodile that rose to fame with a cameo in the movie "Crocodile Dundee" and continued to impress visitors with his fiery temper and commanding presence, has died. Burt died over the weekend, the Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, said. He was at least 90 years old. "Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor -- an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm," Crocosaurus Cove wrote in social media posts. "He wasn't just a crocodile, he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures. While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and beloved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years," the aquarium wrote. A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 5 metres (16 feet) long. He was captured in the 1980s in the Reynolds River and became one of the most well-known crocodiles in the world, according to Crocosaurus Cove. The 1986 movie stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile before being saved by Dundee. Burt is briefly shown lunging out of the water. But the creature shown in more detail as Dundee saves the day is apparently something else. The Internet Movie Database says the movie goofed by depicting an American alligator, which has a blunter snout. The Australian aquarium where Burt had lived since 2008 features a "Cage of Death" which it says is the nation's only crocodile dive. It said it planned to honor Burt's legacy with a commemorative sign "celebrating his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park."