In a revealing development, President Donald Trump’s key intermediary with Russia, Steve Witkoff, reportedly advised a senior aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin on how to approach Trump with a peace proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to a transcript published by Bloomberg News, Witkoff suggested during an October 14 call that Putin congratulate Trump on the Gaza ceasefire deal, express support for it, and emphasize Trump’s role as a peacemaker. This conversation occurred just before Trump announced that Witkoff would meet with Putin to discuss a ‘fine-tuned’ peace plan for Ukraine. The White House did not dispute the transcript’s authenticity, with Trump describing Witkoff’s approach as standard negotiation tactics. However, the report has drawn criticism from some U.S. lawmakers, including Republican Representative Don Bacon, who accused Witkoff of favoring Russian interests and called for his removal from the negotiations. The transcript also revealed that Witkoff proposed arranging a call between Trump and Putin before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s White House visit, with Putin congratulating Trump on the Gaza agreement as a starting point. The discussions come amid a broader debate over a leaked 28-point peace plan, which critics argue heavily favors Russian demands, including Ukraine ceding the Donbas region and reducing its military size. While the State Department declined to comment on the Bloomberg report, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the proposal was a U.S.-led effort with input from both Russia and Ukraine. As negotiations continue, Trump has hinted at a potential meeting with Putin and Zelenskyy, but only after further progress is made.
作者： admin
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New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Prices go up to Dh12,000 for front seat view of Burj Khalifa
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Dubai is gearing up for its annual spectacle, with premium dining experiences offering front-row views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks commanding prices as high as Dh12,000 per person. Restaurants in Souq Al Bahar and Dubai Mall are already seeing a surge in bookings, with exclusive packages that include gourmet meals, champagne, and unobstructed views of the iconic display. Günaydin restaurant, for instance, offers a Dh12,000 package per person, while other venues like The Meat Co and Mausum provide varying options ranging from Dh3,000 to Dh8,500. For those seeking a more casual experience, eateries like Five Guys and TGI Friday offer outdoor seating with views of the fireworks for Dh1,900 to Dh3,000 per person. Meanwhile, free public viewing areas around Downtown Dubai will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, complemented by LED screens broadcasting the live show. Emaar has also announced an eight-day mega celebration starting December 31, with tickets to Burj Park priced at Dh997.5 for adults and Dh577.50 for children. Early interest in these premium experiences has been notable, with enquiries beginning as early as October, highlighting the city’s reputation as a global hub for luxury and entertainment.
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Dubai to deliver 10 million meals to support Palestinians in Gaza
Dubai is spearheading a monumental humanitarian effort to deliver 10 million meals to Palestinians in Gaza, addressing their urgent needs and alleviating their suffering. The initiative, organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), will see the meals transported aboard the Mohammed bin Rashid Humanitarian Ship, in collaboration with Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. Community members are encouraged to volunteer and assist in meal preparation on December 7 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City. Interested individuals can register at www.MBRship.ae. This campaign highlights the UAE’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid and solidarity with the Palestinian people. Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary-General of MBRGI, emphasized the UAE’s dedication to supporting those in need, stating that the initiative symbolizes the nation’s generosity and belief in turning pain into hope. The effort builds on MBRGI’s broader pledge, announced in January 2024, to provide Dh43 million in direct food aid to one million people in Gaza, in partnership with the World Food Programme. This follows earlier commitments, including Dh50 million in urgent aid directed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2023 and a September 2024 shipment of 71.6 tonnes of medical supplies to Gaza via Egypt’s El Arish port.
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I like my players fighting each other, says Moyes, after Gueye sees red
In a dramatic turn of events, Everton secured a historic 1-0 victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford, marking their first Premier League win at the venue in 12 years. The match, however, was overshadowed by an unusual incident involving Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye, who was sent off just 13 minutes into the game for slapping his own teammate, Michael Keane, following a heated exchange. This rare occurrence marked only the third time in Premier League history that a player has been dismissed for a confrontation with a teammate, the last instance dating back to 2008. Despite the early setback, Everton managed to clinch the win with a stunning goal by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, becoming the first team to win at Old Trafford after having a player sent off. Everton manager David Moyes, who had previously failed to win a league game at Old Trafford in 17 attempts as a visiting manager, downplayed the incident, stating that he appreciates the passion and intensity of his players. ‘I quite like my own players fighting each other and getting annoyed with each other because of a bad ball or someone didn’t do the right action,’ Moyes said. ‘If you want a winning team, with the resilience and toughness that got us the result, then I think you’ve got to have players that are going to react in that way.’ Gueye later apologized for his actions on social media, taking full responsibility and vowing to ensure such behavior never happens again. Moyes praised his team’s resilience and the unwavering support of the fans, emphasizing the significance of the victory under challenging circumstances.
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Russian mercenaries accused of cold-blooded killings in Mali – BBC speaks to eyewitnesses
A harrowing account from a Malian shopkeeper has revealed the brutal tactics employed by Russian mercenaries in Mali, highlighting a campaign of terror that has left the local population traumatized. The shopkeeper, identified as Ahmed, described witnessing the cold-blooded murder of two men by Wagner Group fighters, who then threatened to sever his fingers and kill him. This testimony is part of a broader investigation by the BBC into the operations of Russian mercenaries in Mali, which has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups.
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Italian parliament unanimously votes to make femicide a crime
In a landmark decision, Italy’s parliament has unanimously passed a law classifying femicide as a distinct crime, punishable by life imprisonment. The legislation, introduced by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and supported across party lines, marks a significant step in addressing gender-based violence. The bill was approved on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a symbolic gesture underscoring its importance. The move follows widespread protests led by feminist groups like Non Una Di Meno (Not One Less) and the tragic murder of Giulia Cecchettin, a 22-year-old student killed by her ex-boyfriend in November 2023. Her death sparked national outrage and highlighted the pervasive issue of patriarchal violence in Italian society. The new law defines femicide as the murder of a woman motivated by gender, rooted in hatred, discrimination, or control. It mandates the classification and study of such crimes, aiming to reveal their true motivations. Italy joins Cyprus, Malta, and Croatia as EU member states with specific femicide laws. However, critics argue the law’s vague definition may complicate implementation, while advocates stress the need for broader societal changes, including education and economic equality, to combat the root causes of gender violence.
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Binance accused of aiding terrorists in new lawsuit
Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, and its billionaire founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) are embroiled in a high-profile lawsuit in the United States. The legal action, filed by victims of the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel and their families, accuses Binance of facilitating the transfer of over $1 billion to US-designated terrorist organizations, including Hamas and Hezbollah. The lawsuit alleges that Binance knowingly allowed these transactions, including $50 million sent after the attacks, and maintained lax monitoring of inbound funds, enabling illicit activities on its platform. The complaint further claims that Binance intentionally structured itself as a haven for criminal activity, with no significant changes to its core business model despite previous legal settlements. This lawsuit reignites scrutiny of Binance’s practices, coming just weeks after former President Donald Trump pardoned Zhao, who had pleaded guilty to money laundering charges in 2023. Binance has denied the allegations, stating it complies with international sanctions laws and has improved its compliance systems. The plaintiffs are seeking financial damages through a jury trial. The case has sparked controversy over Trump’s pardon, with critics arguing it sends a dangerous message to cryptocurrency executives and white-collar criminals.
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Harry Kane relishing new Bayern role before Arsenal clash
Bayern Munich’s star striker Harry Kane is set to face his former rivals Arsenal in a highly anticipated Champions League clash, showcasing the best form of his career. The 32-year-old England captain has seamlessly adapted to a deeper role under coach Vincent Kompany, blending his prolific goal-scoring with increased creative and defensive responsibilities. This season, Kane has netted 24 goals in 18 appearances for Bayern and five in five for England, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most versatile forwards.
Kane’s transformation into a more complete player has been pivotal to Bayern’s dominant start to the campaign. The German champions have won 17 of their 18 matches across all competitions, with Kane playing a central role in every game. His ability to drop deep and orchestrate play has unlocked new dimensions in Bayern’s attack, while his defensive contributions have added balance to the team.
Ahead of the Arsenal clash, Kane reflected on his evolution, stating, ‘I know I’m not just a goal-scorer. I can impact the team with passing, one-on-one situations, and taking the pressure off the team. This is the most I’ve enjoyed my football because I’m just involved more.’ His enthusiasm for the game is evident, as he embraces Bayern’s aggressive, fearless style of play.
However, Bayern’s vulnerability to set-pieces could be a concern against Arsenal, who have scored 10 of their 24 Premier League goals this season from dead-ball situations. Kompany acknowledged this weakness, saying, ‘You can’t hide it, everyone saw it. Arsenal’s analysts will see it too. We have to show personality, character, and defend those things.’
Kane’s history with Arsenal adds intrigue to the match. Released by the Gunners as a youth player, he later thrived at Tottenham before joining Bayern in 2023. Despite the personal narrative, Kane downplayed the significance of his past, stating, ‘It’s all part and parcel of the journey of football. That was 20 years ago, a long time ago.’
As Bayern prepare for the challenge, Kane’s form and versatility will be crucial in breaking down Arsenal’s formidable defense, which has yet to concede in the Champions League this season.
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UAE-India flights impacted as Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano erupts with 14-km ash plumes
The eruption of Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano has caused significant disruptions to air travel between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India. On Tuesday, November 25, 2025, the volcano unleashed massive ash plumes reaching up to 14 kilometers into the atmosphere, creating hazardous conditions for aircraft. The ash clouds have forced airlines to cancel or reroute flights, particularly those operating on the busy UAE-India corridor, a critical route for both business and leisure travelers. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, as volcanic ash poses severe risks to aviation, including engine damage and reduced visibility. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates and prepare for potential delays. This eruption highlights the vulnerability of global air travel to natural disasters and underscores the need for robust contingency planning in the aviation industry.
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UAE banks set for stable 2026 amid geopolitical, oil-price risks
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) banks are entering 2026 with stable credit fundamentals, robust capital buffers, and resilient profitability, according to a recent assessment by S&P Global Ratings. The agency highlights that 90% of bank ratings in the region carry a stable outlook, reflecting the Gulf’s solid economic foundation and conservative banking frameworks. However, geopolitical tensions and oil-price volatility remain significant risks. S&P analysts Mohamed Damak and Tatjana Lescova emphasize that the sector’s stability hinges on its ability to navigate these external challenges effectively. The agency’s base case assumes no major geopolitical disruptions or prolonged oil-price declines, but warns of potential downside scenarios, including regional conflicts or a sharp drop in oil prices due to global economic slowdowns. External funding needs are rising across the Gulf, with Bahrain and Qatar holding the highest levels of external debt. Saudi banks are expected to continue accessing international debt markets to support Vision 2030 projects. Despite these pressures, the region benefits from strong capital inflows, driven by high oil revenues and diversification efforts. S&P’s average long-term rating for GCC banks is A-, slightly higher than last year, reflecting improved operating conditions and government support. UAE banks, in particular, are expected to thrive due to rapid non-oil economic expansion, population growth, and robust credit demand. The UAE’s digital transformation has also enhanced retail lending efficiency. Economic activity across the Gulf is projected to strengthen, with Brent crude prices stabilizing at around $60 per barrel in 2026 and average real GDP growth estimated at 3.1%. The UAE is expected to outperform this average, supported by growth in tourism, real estate, trade, and technology. Asset quality has improved significantly, with non-performing loan ratios falling to 2.7% and loan-loss provision coverage rising to 155.6%. However, S&P cautions about latent risks, including untested credit exposures and potential defaults in Türkiye. Capitalization remains a key strength, with GCC banks reporting an average Tier-1 capital ratio of 17%. While hybrid instruments have increased, particularly in Saudi Arabia, the overall quality of capital remains solid. S&P concludes that UAE banks are well-capitalized and profitable but must remain vigilant to navigate potential turbulence.