Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, the renowned rap mogul, is set to appeal his recent conviction and 50-month prison sentence, as confirmed by his legal team. The notice of appeal was filed in a US federal court on Monday, with formal documents expected to follow shortly. Combs was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but was acquitted on more severe charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Judge Arun Subramanian emphasized the necessity of a substantial sentence to underscore that abuse of women would be met with serious consequences. In addition to the prison term, Combs was fined $500,000 and placed on five years of probation. Despite his plea for a 14-month sentence, citing time already served, prosecutors had pushed for over 11 years. During his sentencing hearing in September, Combs expressed remorse, describing his actions as ‘disgusting, shameful, and sick,’ and apologized to the women who testified against him. The case, which garnered international attention, centered on allegations that Combs exploited his influential position in the music industry to coerce women into participating in illicit activities. While the jury found him not guilty of the most serious charges, the conviction on prostitution-related counts has led to this latest legal battle.
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Ecuador releases survivor of US strike on ‘drug sub’ in Caribbean
In a recent escalation of its counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean, the United States military conducted a strike on a semi-submersible vessel allegedly involved in drug smuggling. The attack resulted in the deaths of two individuals and the capture of two survivors: an Ecuadorian national, Andrés Fernando Tufiño, and a Colombian citizen, Jeison Obando Pérez. US President Donald Trump announced that the survivors would be repatriated to their respective countries for detention and prosecution. However, Ecuador’s Attorney General’s office stated that Tufiño could not be detained due to a lack of evidence of any crime under Ecuadorian law. This incident marks the first time survivors have been reported in the US’s ongoing Caribbean operations, which have claimed at least 32 lives since September. Experts have raised concerns about the legality of these strikes, arguing they may violate international law. Trump defended the actions, asserting that the vessel was a drug-carrying submarine transporting fentanyl and other narcotics. He also accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of leading a drug-trafficking group, the Cartel of the Suns, which Maduro has denied. Meanwhile, Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro criticized the US for conducting a strike in Colombian territorial waters, calling it an act of murder. The US deployment, involving 10,000 troops and numerous military assets, has primarily targeted vessels leaving Venezuela. The operation has drawn mixed reactions, with Trinidad and Tobago expressing support for the US’s efforts to combat transnational crime, while other nations question its legality and human cost.
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Pardoned Capitol rioter arrested for allegedly threatening to kill top Democrat
A man previously pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot has been arrested and charged with making terroristic threats against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Christopher Moynihan, 34, was apprehended in Clinton, New York, following allegations that he planned to target Jeffries during a scheduled speech at the Economic Club of New York. According to court documents obtained by CBS News, Moynihan sent text messages stating, ‘I cannot allow this terrorist to live,’ and ‘Even if I am hated, [Jeffries] must be eliminated, I will kill him for the future.’ Moynihan, who was sentenced to 21 months in prison in 2023 for his role in the Capitol breach, was among the first rioters to break through police barricades. Prosecutors revealed that he entered the Senate Chamber, rummaged through a notebook on a senator’s desk, and took photos with his phone, remarking, ‘There’s gotta be something in here we can use against these [expletive].’ Trump pardoned Moynihan and over 1,000 other riot defendants during his presidency, labeling them ‘hostages’ whose lives were ‘destroyed.’ Jeffries, who represents a Brooklyn-based district, is a leading candidate for Speaker of the House should Democrats regain control. Moynihan is currently detained in Poughkeepsie and is set to appear in court on Thursday.
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Kenya at crossroads as nation reels from Odinga’s death
The passing of Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and a towering figure in the nation’s political landscape, has left an indelible mark on the country. Odinga, who died at the age of 80 while receiving medical treatment in India, was laid to rest in a ceremony that blended state honors, spiritual rituals, and political reflection. His death has sparked profound grief across Kenya, with many drawing parallels to the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first black president. Odinga’s influence extended far beyond his political achievements; he was a symbol of hope and resilience for millions. Kenyan historian Chebii Kiprono described him as ‘one of the last genuine revolutionaries of modern Africa,’ a leader who carried the aspirations of his people. The burial ceremony in Nyamira village was a poignant tribute to Odinga’s life, marked by traditional Luo dirges and military honors. Despite his frequent clashes with the state, including years of imprisonment without trial, the government paid homage to him with full military rites. Political analyst Wafula Buke noted the irony of Odinga being buried by his former adversaries, stating, ‘Those who threw tear gas and bullets at Raila now watch, clean.’ Odinga’s absence leaves a significant void in Kenya’s political arena. As the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), he was a staunch advocate for multi-party democracy and a key figure in maintaining political competition and national discourse. His death comes at a critical juncture for Kenya, with analysts warning of potential political instability and a leadership vacuum. President William Ruto, who eulogized Odinga as ‘a titan of conscience,’ faces growing public discontent and an uncertain political future. Odinga’s widow, Idah, reflected on his legacy, stating that she never imagined marrying a ‘political engineer.’ As Kenya grapples with the loss of its most prominent opposition leader, the nation stands at a crossroads, with the potential for both turmoil and transformation. Odinga’s enduring legacy will continue to shape Kenya’s democratic journey, inspiring future generations to uphold the values he championed.
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UAE: Fire breaks out in Sharjah’s Industrial Area near Al Khan Bridge
A significant fire broke out in Sharjah’s Industrial Area on the morning of Tuesday, October 21, 2025, near Al Khan Bridge, according to eyewitness accounts shared with Khaleej Times. The incident occurred around 9:00 AM in a location situated behind a mall, previously known as Safeer Mall. A motorist who witnessed the event captured images of the blaze and reported the details to the media. Authorities have not yet released an official statement regarding the cause or extent of the fire. This incident follows another fire that occurred in the same industrial area just last week, raising concerns about safety measures in the region. The area, known for its industrial activities, has seen multiple fire-related incidents in recent times, prompting questions about fire prevention and response protocols. Residents and workers in the vicinity are urged to remain cautious as investigations continue. The incident underscores the need for enhanced safety regulations and infrastructure to prevent such occurrences in the future.
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China completes construction of world’s first wind-powered underwater data center
In a groundbreaking achievement for sustainable technology, China has successfully completed the construction of the world’s first wind-powered underwater data center (UDC) in Shanghai. This innovative project, located in the Lin-gang Special Area of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, represents a significant leap forward in the integration of renewable energy and computing infrastructure. With an investment of 1.6 billion yuan (approximately $226 million), the UDC boasts a total power capacity of 24 megawatts. Unlike traditional land-based data centers, this facility is designed to utilize over 95% green electricity, drastically reducing power consumption by 22.8% and eliminating water and land use by 100% and over 90%, respectively. The completion of this project not only sets a new benchmark for green computing but also demonstrates the potential for offshore wind power to support large-scale, low-carbon data processing. This development is expected to inspire further advancements in sustainable technology and renewable energy integration globally.
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Dubai: Gold prices rally continues as 18K moves closer to Dh400
Gold prices in Dubai witnessed a significant rally on Tuesday, with 18K gold inching closer to Dh400 per gram, driven by sustained market momentum. According to data from the Dubai Jewellery Group, 24K gold opened at Dh523.25 per gram, up from Dh521.75 per gram at Monday’s market close. Similarly, 22K, 21K, and 18K gold opened higher at Dh484.5, Dh464.75, and Dh398.25 per gram, respectively. Spot gold, however, experienced a slight dip, trading at $4,332.52 per ounce, down 0.23% at 9:15 AM UAE time. Dilin Wu, a research strategist at Pepperstone, noted that gold bulls faced significant resistance over the past week due to heightened market volatility. She attributed recent price swings to rapid developments in US-China trade tensions and global geopolitical events. Wu emphasized that the market’s anticipation of US Federal Reserve interest rate cuts and substantial ETF holdings continue to provide medium- to long-term support for gold. Traders are now focusing on upcoming US CPI data and corporate earnings releases, which could exert short-term pressure on gold prices. Intraday prices reached a record high of $4,379 but faced heavy selling during European and US trading hours, briefly dropping below $4,200. Despite this, gold posted a 5.7% weekly gain, marking its tenth consecutive weekly advance. Wu highlighted that a close above $4,300 this week could confirm a new upward momentum phase.
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PGA Tour heads to Utah as South Korea hosts tournaments for LPGA and European Tour
The global golf scene is buzzing with excitement as major tournaments across the PGA, LPGA, and European Tours unfold. The PGA Tour’s Bank of Utah Championship, held at the Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah, boasts a $6 million purse, with the winner taking home $1.08 million. The event features top players like Alex Noren and Maverick McNealy, both ranked within the world’s top 20. This marks the tournament’s second year, now with a title sponsor, and showcases a challenging 7,421-yard course designed by the late Tom Weiskopf. Defending champion Matt McCarty, who triumphed in 2024, returns to defend his title. Meanwhile, the LPGA Tour’s Hanwha Lifeplus International Crown in Goyang, South Korea, brings together seven countries and a ‘rest of the world’ team for a thrilling fourball competition. With a $2 million prize pool, the winning team will earn $500,000. Notable players like Lydia Ko and Brooke Henderson add to the event’s prestige, though Nelly Korda’s withdrawal due to injuries is a setback. On the European Tour, the Genesis Championship in Cheonan, South Korea, offers a $4 million purse, with the winner claiming $666,667. This event is crucial for players vying to qualify for the Race to Dubai’s final tournaments. Stars like Hideki Matsuyama and Adam Scott are in the field, adding to the competition’s intensity. Across the globe, other tours, including the PGA Tour Champions, Asian Tour, and Ladies European Tour, are also in full swing, showcasing golf’s universal appeal and the sport’s top talent.
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Sacred code: US, China and the rise of algorithmical theology
The recent agreement between the United States and China regarding the ownership of TikTok marks a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle over technological sovereignty. Under the terms of the deal, China retains a 20% stake in the platform and maintains control over its algorithm, a critical component of TikTok’s success. While American shareholders will oversee the algorithm’s usage, they will not own it outright. This arrangement underscores the ideological and strategic importance of algorithms in the digital age, as China views them as sacred and untouchable assets that traditional intellectual property rights (IPR) cannot adequately protect.
For China, the deal represents a partial victory. By retaining a minority stake, China ensures its continued presence in the U.S. market, a foothold that would have otherwise been lost entirely. The compromise highlights the broader ‘techno-theological’ disputes between the two nations, reminiscent of past conflicts such as the 2009 Google-China standoff. In that instance, China demanded access to Google’s source code, a condition the tech giant refused, leading to its exit from the Chinese market. Similar demands were made to other U.S. platforms like Facebook and Twitter, which also failed to gain entry.
TikTok’s case is unique due to its pivotal role in American politics, particularly its influence on the electoral process. With over 170 million followers on TikTok, President Donald Trump’s campaign would have been significantly impacted by a shutdown. This political leverage likely influenced the U.S. decision to accept the compromise, despite concerns over the platform’s potential risks.
The TikTok deal draws parallels to the Vatican’s agreement with China on the appointment of bishops, where the Pope retains control over the core doctrine while China manages its implementation domestically. Both agreements reflect a pragmatic approach to maintaining limited access in a highly controlled environment.
This deal also raises questions about the future of IPR and technological sovereignty. As algorithms become the cornerstone of modern innovation, their protection and control will remain a contentious issue. China’s insistence on retaining control over TikTok’s algorithm signals its broader strategy of state-directed technological development, challenging the Western model of IPR-based innovation.
The TikTok compromise is a testament to the evolving dynamics of U.S.-China relations, where ideological and technological disputes are increasingly resolved through pragmatic, albeit uneasy, agreements.
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UAE President congratulates Takaichi, first female PM of Japan
In a historic moment for Japan, Sanae Takaichi has been elected as the nation’s first female Prime Minister. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his heartfelt congratulations to Takaichi, expressing his wishes for her success in steering Japan towards greater progress and development. The President also emphasized his eagerness to strengthen the already robust UAE-Japan relationship, highlighting the importance of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in fostering mutual growth and prosperity for both nations. Takaichi, the leader of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party, secured 237 votes in the lower house, surpassing the majority required in the 465-seat chamber. Her inauguration marks a significant milestone in Japan’s political landscape, reflecting a progressive shift in leadership. The UAE’s gesture underscores the importance of international diplomacy and the shared commitment to advancing bilateral ties.