A Slovak court has handed down a 21-year prison sentence to Juraj Cintula, the man responsible for the attempted assassination of Prime Minister Robert Fico in May 2024. The attack, which occurred in the town of Handlová, left Fico critically injured but he has since recovered after undergoing multiple surgeries. Cintula, a 72-year-old retiree, was convicted of committing a terrorist act, a charge he vehemently denied during the trial. The court ruled that his actions were a direct attack on the government, aimed at inciting its overthrow. Cintula’s motive, as he stated, was his opposition to Fico’s policies, including the cancellation of a special anti-corruption office, the cessation of military aid to Ukraine, and the government’s cultural stance. Despite his claims of not intending to kill, the court found his actions to be a severe threat to national security. The verdict can still be appealed, though it remains unclear if Cintula will pursue this option. The trial has further polarized Slovakia, a nation already divided over Fico’s pro-Russian and anti-Western policies. Critics argue that Fico’s leadership aligns Slovakia with Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, sparking widespread protests across the country. Fico, who was absent during the trial, has publicly forgiven his attacker, stating he harbors no hatred towards him.
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‘The man who made India laugh’ – Tributes pour in for veteran actor Asrani
The Indian film industry mourns the loss of veteran actor Govardhan Asrani, who passed away at the age of 84 on Monday in Mumbai. Asrani, celebrated for his iconic comic roles, succumbed to a brief illness, as confirmed by his manager. His death marks the end of a remarkable career spanning over five decades, during which he starred in more than 300 films. Among his most unforgettable performances was his portrayal of an eccentric jailer in the 1975 classic *Sholay*, a role that cemented his place in Bollywood history. Born in 1941 in Rajasthan, Asrani began his journey as a voice artist at All India Radio before honing his craft at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). His versatility extended beyond comedy, with notable performances in films like *Koshish* (1972) and *Chaitali* (1975), showcasing his ability to tackle darker, more complex characters. Tributes poured in from across the industry, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praising Asrani as a ‘gifted entertainer’ and ‘versatile artist.’ Colleagues, including director Ramesh Sippy and actor Akshay Kumar, reminisced about his unparalleled comic timing and generosity. Asrani’s family described his passing as an ‘irreparable loss’ for Hindi cinema and their hearts. His final rites were held in Mumbai, attended by close family and friends. Asrani leaves behind a legacy of laughter, artistry, and an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
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China, EU expected to play key role at COP30
As the world gears up for the 30th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30), China and the European Union are anticipated to take center stage in driving global climate efforts. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), expressed optimism about the collaborative potential of these two major climate actors, particularly in light of the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement for the second time. COP30, set to take place in Belem, Brazil, next month, will review the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, a critical step in global climate governance. Andersen highlighted China’s ambitious renewable energy goals, including a target to increase wind and solar power capacity to 3,600 gigawatts by 2035, as a transformative force in the global energy transition. She also emphasized the potential for China-EU cooperation to spur low-carbon investments in developing economies, creating multilateral benefits. Andersen noted that such collaborations could stimulate industrial growth, generate jobs, and provide foundational infrastructure like renewable energy systems, which are essential for education, healthcare, and economic development in the Global South. The absence of the US, historically a key player in climate negotiations, underscores the importance of China and the EU’s leadership in ensuring the success of COP30. Andersen praised the ongoing dialogue between China and the EU, particularly within the G20 framework, and expressed confidence in their ability to drive ambitious climate action. She described the potential outcomes of their joint efforts as a ‘true win-win,’ with innovations and investments catalyzing sustainable development worldwide.
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Farmers return to their roots to reap abundant profits
Zhaotong, a city in Yunnan province, has emerged as a beacon of rural revitalization, leveraging its unique agricultural products to drive economic growth and improve living standards. Once part of China’s 832 poverty-stricken counties, Yiliang, a county within Zhaotong, has transformed its fortunes through the cultivation of specialty crops such as gastrodia elata, apples, and Sichuan peppers. The city now leads Yunnan in agricultural output, with last year’s total value exceeding 150 billion yuan ($21.06 billion) and projected to reach 180 billion yuan this year.
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Blue Jays set up World Series meeting with Dodgers
The Toronto Blue Jays have clinched their first World Series appearance since 1993 after a thrilling victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series. Trailing 3-1, outfielder George Springer delivered a game-changing three-run home run in the seventh inning, propelling the Blue Jays to a 4-3 series win. The only Canadian franchise in Major League Baseball (MLB) will now face the defending champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, in the highly anticipated ‘Fall Classic.’
Springer, a key player in the Houston Astros’ 2017 World Series triumph, expressed his elation, stating, ‘I’m just so happy for our team, our city, our country. This is such an unbelievable moment.’ With 23 post-season home runs, Springer now ranks third in MLB history, trailing only Manny Ramirez (29) and Jose Altuve (27). Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised Springer’s clutch performance, calling it ‘October magic.’
The Mariners, who led the series 2-0 and 3-2, remain the only MLB franchise never to reach the World Series. Manager Dan Wilson acknowledged the disappointment but commended his team’s efforts, saying, ‘It’s a special team. It’s a shame that we had to come out on the wrong side of this one.’
The Blue Jays, who previously won the World Series in 1992 and 1993, will host the Dodgers in Game 1 on Friday, marking a historic return to the championship stage.
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Toxic haze in Delhi despite ‘green’ Diwali
Delhi, India’s capital, faced a severe air quality crisis following the Diwali festival, as firecrackers exacerbated the city’s already toxic atmosphere. Despite a Supreme Court directive to use less-polluting ‘green’ fireworks and restrict their use to specific time slots, residents defied the orders, bursting traditional firecrackers late into the night. On Tuesday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reached 360, categorizing the air as ‘very poor.’ The AQI measures PM 2.5 levels—fine particulate matter that can cause respiratory and other health issues. The World Health Organization recommends PM 2.5 levels should not exceed 15 micrograms per cubic meter over 24 hours, but Delhi’s levels were 24 times higher in some areas. The city’s pollution problem intensifies during winter due to crop stubble burning in neighboring states and low wind speeds that trap pollutants. Although firecrackers were banned in Delhi since 2020, enforcement has been lax, and traditional crackers were openly sold in shops. Critics argue that even ‘green’ crackers, which emit 20-30% fewer pollutants, still release harmful substances. Residents reported thick smog and poor visibility, with many expressing resignation over the recurring issue. Experts fear that relaxing rules around firecrackers could undermine efforts to raise awareness about air pollution dangers. Authorities have implemented measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to curb emissions, but the situation remains dire.
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Can you name every team in the NBA in 10 minutes?
The highly anticipated NBA season is set to commence on Tuesday, October 21, at 00:30 BST on Wednesday, October 22. This marks the beginning of an exciting journey for all 30 teams across North America, each vying for the coveted championship title. To celebrate the start of the season, we invite you to test your basketball knowledge by taking on the challenge of naming every team in the NBA. You have just 10 minutes to complete this quiz—good luck! This quiz is part of our ongoing series of sports challenges, which also includes naming every Champions League winner, identifying the Faithfuls in our Traitors-inspired quiz, and listing every NFL team in 10 minutes. If you enjoy testing your sports knowledge, visit our dedicated sports quizzes page and sign up for notifications to receive the latest quizzes directly on your device.
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Almond-sized crab and tiny lantern shark discovered in Australia
In a groundbreaking expedition, Australian scientists have uncovered a treasure trove of new marine species in the uncharted depths of the Gascoyne Marine Park, located approximately 20 kilometers off the coast of Western Australia. The discoveries, made during a 2022 research voyage led by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, include a semi-transparent porcelain crab and a bioluminescent lantern shark, shedding light on the rich biodiversity of the region.
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What to expect for Japan’s economy under Sanae Takaichi, its 1st female prime minister
Tokyo’s stock market has surged following the election of Sanae Takaichi as Japan’s first female prime minister, with investors optimistic about her commitment to market-friendly policies. The Nikkei 225 index rose 0.7% to 49,517.57, nearing the symbolic 50,000 mark. Takaichi, a conservative lawmaker and heavy metal enthusiast, secured 237 votes in a parliamentary ballot, surpassing the 233 required for victory. Her policy framework, dubbed ‘Sanaenomics,’ is expected to emphasize increased defense spending and sustained low interest rates, despite concerns over inflation and a weak yen. Takaichi has vowed to address rising consumer prices, which have exceeded the Bank of Japan’s 2% target, reaching 2.5% to 3%. However, her opposition to raising interest rates could complicate efforts to curb inflation and strengthen the yen. Wage stagnation remains a pressing issue, with current levels only recently surpassing 1997 averages. Takaichi also faces the challenge of Japan’s shrinking and aging population, which has led to labor shortages and hindered economic growth. She has proposed tax incentives for companies offering childcare and hinted at family-friendly tax breaks. Takaichi’s policies are expected to mirror those of her late mentor, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, including boosting government spending and strengthening Japan’s defense capabilities. Her political rise has already spurred investment in military-related firms. While Takaichi seeks to maintain cordial relations with the U.S., her tenure will likely be fraught with challenges, including resistance to reforms and the need for cross-party support in a fragmented parliament.
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‘Strange’ being an Irish citizen who can’t vote in presidential election
As the Republic of Ireland prepares to elect its next president on Friday, the issue of voting rights for Irish citizens living abroad or in Northern Ireland has come to the forefront. Currently, only citizens residing within the Republic are eligible to vote, with exceptions for Defence Forces personnel and diplomatic staff serving overseas. This restriction has sparked criticism from many, including Alan Flanagan, a County Longford native now living in London, who described the system as ‘strange’ and called for reform. Flanagan, who has been actively involved in campaigning for voting rights through the group Votes for Irish Citizens Abroad (VICA), emphasized that the Irish president ‘represents Irish people all over the world.’ He argued that extending voting rights to those in Northern Ireland is a ‘no brainer’ and urged the government to act swiftly. The debate dates back to 2013, when a constitutional convention recommended extending presidential voting rights to citizens outside the Republic. Despite widespread political support, including from the ruling parties Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, a 2019 referendum on the issue was postponed, and no new date has been set. Amy Donohoe, a journalist from County Cavan now living in Boston, expressed frustration at being unable to vote, stating, ‘It would be nice to use my vote.’ Meanwhile, Patricia Stephenson, a member of the Seanad, highlighted the emotional and financial burden faced by citizens who had to return to Ireland to vote in past referendums on marriage equality and abortion access. Former government minister Mary Hanafin also voiced support for extending voting rights but stressed the need for better groundwork to foster relations and communication. The election features two main candidates: Catherine Connolly, an independent backed by left-wing parties, and Heather Humphreys of Fine Gael. Both candidates have expressed support for extending voting rights to citizens in Northern Ireland. As the debate continues, the question remains whether Ireland will take steps to ensure its diaspora and Northern Irish citizens have a say in choosing their president.