In a landmark decision, the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, has officially confirmed war crimes and crimes against humanity charges against Joseph Kony, the notorious Ugandan warlord who remains at large. A three-judge panel concluded there is substantial evidence to hold Kony accountable for 29 counts, including murder, sexual enslavement, and rape, committed during his leadership of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), a brutal militia that terrorized northern Uganda for decades. The court’s ruling marks a significant step in the pursuit of justice for the victims of Kony’s atrocities, despite his continued evasion of capture. The ICC held its first-ever in absentia hearing for Kony, a move that has sparked debate over the fairness of such proceedings. Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang emphasized the devastating impact of Kony’s actions, stating, ‘The social and cultural fabric of Northern Uganda has been torn apart and is still struggling to rebuild itself.’ Kony gained global notoriety in 2012 when a viral video exposed his crimes, yet international efforts to apprehend him have so far failed. Court-appointed defense counsel argued that the in absentia hearing violated Kony’s right to a fair trial, with lawyer Peter Haynes noting, ‘The empty chair impacted the preparation of the defense.’ The case is seen as a test for the ICC, potentially paving the way for other high-profile trials where suspects are unlikely to be detained, including those involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The LRA, founded by Kony in the 1980s, initially sought to overthrow the Ugandan government before expanding its operations to neighboring countries, leaving a trail of destruction marked by the use of child soldiers, civilian mutilations, and the enslavement of women.
作者： admin
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China unveils regulation on ecological environment monitoring
In a significant move to bolster environmental protection, China has unveiled a new regulation on ecological environment monitoring, set to take effect on January 1, 2026. Signed by Premier Li Qiang, the State Council decree introduces a comprehensive framework comprising seven chapters and 49 articles. The regulation aims to standardize monitoring activities, enhance capabilities, and ensure the accuracy and reliability of environmental data. Key provisions include the development of a modern monitoring system with advanced automation, digitization, and smart technologies. The regulation also emphasizes the establishment of a public monitoring network, improved supervision of pollution sources, and early warning systems for environmental risks. Additionally, it mandates the creation of a robust management system for emergent environmental incidents and sets stringent requirements for technical service organizations, which must register with environmental authorities. Enhanced oversight and accountability measures are also highlighted to ensure effective implementation.
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‘AI president’: Trump deepfakes glorify himself, trash rivals
In an unprecedented move, former U.S. President Donald Trump has embraced artificial intelligence (AI) as a central tool in his political communication strategy. Since beginning his second term, Trump has flooded his Truth Social platform with hyper-realistic AI-generated content, portraying himself in grandiose roles while discrediting his political adversaries. These fabricated visuals, ranging from Trump as a crowned king to Superman, have captivated and deceived social media users, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. The White House has remained silent on whether Trump or his aides are behind these creations, but the impact is undeniable. Critics argue that this marks a dangerous escalation in the weaponization of AI for political gain. Trump’s posts have included absurd scenarios, such as a video of him piloting a fighter jet labeled ‘King Trump’ dumping waste on protesters, and another promoting the debunked ‘MedBed’ conspiracy theory. His use of AI has also targeted rivals, including former President Barack Obama and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, with racially charged imagery. Experts like Nora Benavidez of Free Press warn that such tactics distort reality and undermine public discourse. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom has adopted a similar strategy, using AI-generated content to mock Republicans after recent Democratic victories. This trend raises critical questions about the ethical use of AI in politics and its potential to erode shared truths in society.
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Solar storms bring colorful northern lights to unexpected places
A series of powerful solar storms have painted the night skies with dazzling auroras, reaching regions far beyond their typical polar confines. On Tuesday night, vibrant northern lights were observed in unexpected locations across Europe, including Hungary and the United Kingdom, while in the U.S., the celestial display stretched as far south as Kansas, Colorado, and Texas. These geomagnetic disturbances, classified as severe by space weather forecasters, have also caused minor disruptions to GPS communications and power grids, according to Shawn Dahl of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The surge in solar activity has prompted NASA to delay the launch of Blue Origin’s new rocket, which was set to carry Mars orbiters, until space weather conditions stabilize. Over the past few days, the sun has emitted multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs), with two already reaching Earth and at least one more expected to arrive on Wednesday. Forecasters warn that this upcoming solar outburst could be the most intense of the trio, potentially amplifying the brightness and southern reach of the auroras depending on its interaction with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere.
This heightened solar activity is part of the sun’s 11-year cycle, currently at its peak phase, which has made auroras more frequent and widespread. The phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s atmosphere, creating the mesmerizing light displays known as the northern and southern lights. Last year, the strongest geomagnetic storm in two decades illuminated skies across the Northern Hemisphere, followed by another powerful solar storm that brought auroras to unexpected locations like Germany, the United Kingdom, and New York City.
While auroras are a breathtaking spectacle, solar storms can also pose significant risks. They have the potential to disrupt power grids, interfere with air traffic control, and scramble radio and GPS communications. Historical events, such as the 1859 solar storm that set telegraph lines on fire and the 1972 storm that detonated magnetic sea mines off Vietnam’s coast, underscore the unpredictable and occasionally hazardous nature of space weather. Despite advancements in forecasting, experts can only provide alerts days in advance, leaving limited time for preparation.
For those eager to witness the auroras, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center website and aurora forecasting apps offer real-time updates. Skygazers are advised to seek out dark, quiet areas away from city lights, such as local or national parks, and to check weather forecasts to avoid cloud cover. Smartphone cameras can also capture subtle auroral details invisible to the naked eye, enhancing the experience of this natural wonder.
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Vehicle explodes in huge fireball in the Bronx
A dramatic vehicle explosion in the Bronx sent shockwaves through the community, resulting in a massive fireball that injured seven firefighters. Despite the severity of the incident, the New York City fire chief has provided reassuring news: all injured firefighters are awake, alert, and able to communicate. Medical professionals anticipate a full recovery for each of them. The explosion, which occurred under circumstances still under investigation, highlights the inherent risks faced by first responders. The incident has drawn attention to the importance of safety protocols and the resilience of emergency personnel in the face of danger. Authorities are working diligently to determine the cause of the explosion and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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Blizzard hits Xinjiang in NW China, breaks records, impacts transport
A historic blizzard has engulfed Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region since Wednesday, causing widespread disruption to transportation and setting unprecedented precipitation records. According to the regional meteorological observatory, 538 weather stations across Xinjiang reported rain or snow by Thursday morning, with 77 experiencing blizzard conditions. Eleven areas, including the regional capital Urumqi and the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, were severely impacted by heavy snowfall. Urumqi recorded 35.6 millimeters of precipitation in a single day, the highest November daily total in the city’s history. Chen Chunyan, chief forecaster at the observatory, highlighted Turgen township in Ili as the epicenter of the storm, with snowfall reaching 40.8 millimeters. The blizzard has forced partial or full closures of major highways, including the G7, G216, and G335, with reopening times uncertain. Railway services were also affected, with the cancellation of a passenger train between Urumqi and Korla. The observatory warns of continued snowfall in the coming days, potentially exacerbating travel safety concerns.
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Former Egyptian minister of tourism and antiquities Khaled El-Enany appointed as UNESCO director-general
In a landmark decision, Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, has been appointed as the new Director-General of UNESCO. This appointment marks a significant milestone for both Egypt and the global cultural heritage community. El-Enany, renowned for his expertise in preserving and promoting Egypt’s rich historical legacy, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His tenure as minister saw unprecedented advancements in Egypt’s tourism sector and the restoration of iconic archaeological sites. As UNESCO’s leader, El-Enany is expected to champion global efforts in cultural preservation, education, and sustainable development. His appointment underscores the growing recognition of Egypt’s pivotal role in shaping international heritage policies. The global community anticipates his leadership will foster greater collaboration in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, cultural diversity, and the protection of endangered heritage sites.
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Waterway aims to revitalize Beijing’s urban rivers
A new 15-kilometer boat route connecting Beijing’s Chaoyang district to the municipal administrative center in Tongzhou district officially opened on a trial basis on Wednesday. This initiative is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate the city’s urban waterways and enhance their role in local tourism and commerce. The journey begins at INDIGO Harbor, a riverside location near a popular shopping mall on the Bahe River, and extends to the Wenyu River in Tongzhou. The route offers picturesque views of the changing seasons, with plans to transform it into a vibrant waterfront corridor featuring diverse flora and landscapes throughout the year. Beyond its scenic appeal, the boat line is expected to boost local businesses and tourism by connecting key cultural and commercial hubs such as Taikoo Place Beijing, Langyuan Station, and the 798·751 Art District. Officials from Chaoyang district’s water bureau revealed ambitious plans to expand waterway connectivity during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30), aiming to create a 43.4-kilometer waterfront corridor linking the Bahe River to the Beihucheng River upstream and the Qinghe-Wenyu River and Beiyun River systems downstream. The project also envisions integrating waterways with greenways, walking paths, and nearby parks to establish a seamless network of blue, green, and urban infrastructure across eastern Beijing.
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Pulisic to miss US team’s November friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay, Reyna back on roster
The U.S. men’s national soccer team has unveiled its 25-man roster for the upcoming friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay, marking the penultimate matches before coach Mauricio Pochettino finalizes his squad for the pre-World Cup training camp. Notably, star midfielder Christian Pulisic will miss the games due to a hamstring injury sustained in an October 14 friendly against Australia, though AC Milan has indicated he could return for their Serie A match this weekend. Pulisic, the team’s top player, faced criticism earlier this year for skipping the CONCACAF Gold Cup to prioritize rest ahead of the European season and World Cup. Meanwhile, Gio Reyna, son of former U.S. captain Claudio Reyna, returns to the roster for the first time since March, despite limited playing time at Borussia Mönchengladbach due to a thigh injury. Other notable absences include midfielder Weston McKennie and goalkeeper Matt Turner, while Ricardo Pepi, Tyler Adams, and Auston Trusty make their return to the squad. The U.S., ranked 16th globally, will face No. 39 Paraguay on November 15 in Chester, Pennsylvania, and 15th-ranked Uruguay on November 18 in Tampa, Florida. The roster also features several MLS players whose teams were recently eliminated from the playoffs, including defender Alex Freeman and midfielder Diego Luna. With injuries sidelining key players like Cameron Carter-Vickers, Antonee Robinson, and Tim Weah, Pochettino’s selections reflect a mix of experience and emerging talent as the team prepares for its World Cup opener on June 12.
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Philippines urges provincial officials to prepare for incoming storm
The Philippines is bracing for the arrival of Tropical Storm Fung-wong, which is expected to intensify into a super typhoon in the coming days. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued a directive urging provincial officials to prepare for the potentially devastating storm. This warning comes just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi wreaked havoc across the country, claiming over 140 lives and leaving 127 people missing. In response to the dual threats, President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos declared a state of national calamity on Thursday. The DILG has called on local government units (LGUs) to take immediate action, including clearing waterways and drainage systems, inspecting roads and bridges, and ensuring evacuation centers are well-stocked with essential supplies. According to the state weather bureau, Fung-wong is likely to reach typhoon status by Friday and could escalate to super typhoon strength by Saturday. The storm is predicted to make landfall in northern or central Luzon on Monday, potentially at its peak intensity. The Philippines remains on high alert as it faces the compounding challenges of recovery from Kalmaegi and preparation for Fung-wong.