Vietnam is reeling from catastrophic floods triggered by relentless heavy rainfall, resulting in at least 90 fatalities and 12 individuals reported missing. The deluge has caused widespread destruction, damaging 186,000 homes and sweeping away over three million livestock. Preliminary estimates suggest the economic toll runs into hundreds of millions of pounds. The mountainous province of Dak Lak has borne the brunt of the disaster, with over 60 deaths recorded since November 16, according to AFP. This calamity follows closely on the heels of typhoons Kalmaegi and Bualoi, which struck Vietnam in rapid succession in recent months. As of Sunday morning, approximately 258,000 people were left without electricity, and critical transportation routes, including major highways and railway lines, were rendered impassable. In response, the Vietnamese government has deployed military and police forces to aid the hardest-hit regions, particularly in the provinces of Quang Ngai, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Khanh Hoa, and Lam Dong. Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, attending the G20 summit in South Africa, convened an emergency virtual meeting to coordinate relief efforts. Rainfall in some areas exceeded 1.5 meters (5 feet), with certain locations surpassing a staggering 5.2 meters, a record not seen since 1993. While forecasts predict a respite from the rain in the coming days, scientists warn that Vietnam’s vulnerability to extreme weather events has been exacerbated by human-induced climate change, intensifying the frequency and strength of typhoons.
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More and more Ugandan men seek DNA paternity tests, often with heartbreaking results
In Uganda, the increasing availability of DNA testing has sparked a surge in paternity disputes, challenging traditional norms and straining family relationships. Moses Kutoi, a clan leader and mayor of Nabumali, finds himself at the forefront of mediating these sensitive conflicts. Often, men question why their children do not resemble them, leading to marital discord and, in some cases, violence. Kutoi, who himself does not resemble his father, uses his personal experience to counsel families, urging them to focus on unity rather than biological ties. The issue has become so pervasive that religious and traditional leaders are calling for tolerance and a return to African teachings that emphasize communal responsibility over individual grievances. The Anglican Archbishop of Uganda, Stephen Kaziimba, has even invoked the story of Jesus’ virgin birth to discourage DNA testing among the faithful. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Internal Affairs reports a sharp rise in men seeking voluntary DNA tests, with over 98% of results revealing they are not the biological fathers. This has led to heartbreak and legal battles, particularly in cases involving inheritance and divorce. Despite the challenges, faith leaders like Pastor Andrew Mutengu are organizing counseling sessions to help families navigate these disputes. However, the affordability of DNA testing remains a barrier for many, with costs exceeding $200 in some areas. As Uganda grapples with this modern dilemma, the tension between tradition and technology continues to shape the nation’s social fabric.
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AP mapping shows France’s poorest regions backing Le Pen’s party as support for Macron wanes
In May 2017, Emmanuel Macron, freshly elected as France’s president, addressed his supporters with a promise to bridge the nation’s divides and win over voters who had backed his far-right rival, Marine Le Pen. Le Pen, leader of the National Front (now rebranded as National Rally), had secured over 10.6 million votes—a historic high for her party. Macron vowed to address the “anger” and “distress” driving these voters, pledging to eliminate their reasons for supporting extremist parties. However, as Macron’s presidency nears its end, this promise lies in ruins. Le Pen’s nativist rhetoric, targeting immigrants, Muslims, and the European Union, has gained millions of converts. National Rally, shedding its controversial past under Le Pen’s father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, has become the largest party in parliament and is poised for a potential victory in the 2027 elections.
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In Ukraine’s ‘kill-zone’, robots are a lifeline to troops trapped on perilous eastern front
In the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, the Fifth Brigade of the Ukrainian army has deployed unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to deliver critical supplies to troops on the frontline in Pokrovsk and Myrnograd. These robotic devices, often referred to as ‘land drones,’ have become indispensable in a region where Russian forces are aggressively targeting supply routes. The UGVs, resembling mini tanks without turrets, are small, agile, and capable of navigating narrow paths, making them ideal for transporting food, ammunition, and fuel to soldiers in perilous conditions.
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Muthusamy and Verreynne’s unbroken stand frustrates India on day two of second test
GUWAHATI, India — South Africa’s Senuran Muthusamy and Kyle Verreynne showcased remarkable resilience on the second day of the second cricket test against India, forging an unbroken 70-run partnership for the seventh wicket. The duo’s steadfast performance propelled South Africa to 316-6 by the tea interval at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. Resuming from an overnight score of 247-6, Muthusamy and Verreynne batted through the morning session on a placid pitch, thwarting India’s attempts to dismantle the Proteas’ lower order. Muthusamy remained unbeaten on 56, his third test half-century, while Verreynne contributed 38 not out. Their partnership was pivotal in stabilizing South Africa’s innings after a challenging first day. India’s hopes for a breakthrough were dashed when Ravindra Jadeja’s appeal for leg before wicket against Muthusamy was overturned upon review, revealing the ball had grazed the batter’s glove. On the opening day, wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav had claimed 3-48, restricting South Africa to 247-6. Tristan Stubbs top-scored with 49, but the Proteas lost four wickets in the final session, relinquishing their earlier advantage. Play was halted late in the afternoon due to poor light. South Africa, having won the first test in Kolkata by 30 runs, are now vying for their first series victory on Indian soil since 2000-01.
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Bolsonaro’s conviction brings vindication for some Brazilians who lost loved ones to COVID-19
In a dramatic turn of events, Brazil’s Supreme Court has ordered the preemptive arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces a 27-year prison sentence for attempting a coup following his 2022 election loss to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The arrest has sparked mixed reactions across the nation, particularly among families who lost loved ones to COVID-19, a crisis many blame on Bolsonaro’s handling of the pandemic. Simone Guimarães, a retired teacher from Rio de Janeiro, lost five relatives to the virus, including her husband and sister. She views Bolsonaro’s arrest as a small step toward justice, though it does little to address the grief of those who suffered under his administration. Social media was flooded with tributes to COVID-19 victims, echoing similar sentiments expressed when Bolsonaro was convicted in September. Critics argue that while his conviction for coup-related crimes offers some vindication, it fails to hold him accountable for the pandemic’s devastating toll. Diego Orsi, a translator from São Paulo, likened the situation to the Nuremberg trials, where Nazis were convicted for invasion rather than genocide. Bolsonaro’s denialist stance during the pandemic, including mocking patients and delaying vaccine rollouts, alienated many Brazilians and contributed to his electoral defeat. Epidemiologists estimate that 80% of Brazil’s 700,000 COVID-19 deaths could have been prevented with better leadership. As Bolsonaro’s legal battles continue, the nation remains deeply divided, with his arrest marking a pivotal moment in Brazil’s political landscape.
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US signals broader efforts to protect Nigeria’s Christians following Trump’s military threat
The Trump administration is intensifying its efforts to collaborate with Nigeria’s government to address violence against Christians, signaling a multifaceted approach that goes beyond potential military intervention. This strategy includes diplomatic measures, intelligence sharing, and assistance programs, as highlighted by a State Department official. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently met with Nigeria’s national security adviser to discuss solutions, emphasizing cooperation over unilateral action. This contrasts with President Trump’s earlier threats to halt all U.S. assistance if Nigeria fails to curb the violence. The administration’s approach aligns with Trump’s broader pledge to reduce foreign military engagements, even as the U.S. security presence in Africa has diminished. However, experts caution that Nigeria’s complex security challenges, involving militant groups like Boko Haram, farmer-herder conflicts, and armed banditry, require long-term solutions beyond military strikes. The Nigerian government has rejected unilateral intervention but welcomes collaborative efforts. Analysts stress that addressing the root causes of violence, such as economic disparities and interfaith tensions, is crucial for sustainable peace. The U.S. faces logistical challenges in mobilizing resources for potential intervention, given the reduced military footprint in the region. While the administration explores options, including sanctions and economic partnerships, the effectiveness of military action remains uncertain. The situation underscores the need for a comprehensive, coordinated strategy to address Nigeria’s multifaceted security crisis.
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Guinea-Bissau’s president seeks second term in close race marked by tensions
Guinea-Bissau is set to hold a pivotal presidential election on Sunday, with incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo vying for a second term. If successful, Embalo would become the first leader in the nation’s history to secure consecutive terms. The election unfolds against a backdrop of heightened political and ethnic tensions, compounded by the exclusion of the main opposition party, the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), led by former Prime Minister Domingos Simoes Pereira. Pereira was barred from the race after authorities claimed his party failed to submit its application on time. The election is widely regarded as one of the most contentious in recent history, with analysts warning of potential instability. Nearly half of the country’s 2.2 million population is registered to vote, and a runoff will be held if no candidate secures more than 50% of the votes. Embalo, a 53-year-old former army general backed by a coalition of over 20 political groups, faces stiff competition from 11 other candidates, including Fernando Dias da Costa, a 47-year-old relatively unknown figure supported by Pereira. The election comes at a critical juncture for Guinea-Bissau, one of the world’s poorest nations, which has struggled with coups, drug trafficking, and economic hardship since gaining independence from Portugal over five decades ago. Embalo’s campaign has focused on infrastructure development, while Dias has pledged to prioritize stability, freedoms, and security. The opposition has accused Embalo of authoritarianism and human rights violations, further fueling the political divide. The vote also follows a recent coup attempt in October and a prolonged legitimacy crisis surrounding Embalo’s tenure. Political analyst Augusto Nansambe lamented the erosion of democratic norms, stating, ‘The democracy we knew … is no longer the model we are experiencing; we are experiencing a model defined by a single person.’ Despite the challenges, some residents remain hopeful that the election will bring peace and prosperity to the nation. ‘I hope that these elections will bring peace and tranquility so that there is no more hunger,’ said Marinho Insoldé, a resident of the capital, Bissau.
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US insists it authored Ukraine peace plan ahead of talks on ending war
A proposed peace plan to end the Ukraine war, allegedly authored by the United States, has ignited significant debate and resistance from Ukraine’s allies. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the draft, which includes provisions favorable to Russia, was developed with input from both Russia and Ukraine. However, Republican Senator Mike Rounds contradicted this, stating that Rubio had informed lawmakers the plan was not US policy but rather a Russian proposal. The State Department swiftly denied Rounds’ claims, asserting that the proposal was indeed crafted by the US. The plan, which remains undisclosed but has been widely leaked, includes controversial measures such as Ukraine withdrawing troops from eastern regions and limiting its armed forces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned of the plan’s potential to leave Ukraine vulnerable, while Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested it could form the basis of an agreement. The proposal has faced strong opposition from European leaders, including France and Germany, who argue it undermines Ukraine’s security. US President Donald Trump, who has prioritized ending the conflict, clarified that the plan is not a final offer and extended the deadline for Ukraine’s approval. As negotiations continue in Geneva, the international community remains divided over the plan’s feasibility and implications for lasting peace.
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Northern Warriors beat Gladiators in Abu Dhabi T10
The Northern Warriors secured a commanding 6-wicket victory against the Deccan Gladiators in the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 tournament, chasing down a target of 88 runs with 10 balls to spare. This win marked a significant turnaround for the Warriors, who had managed only one victory in their first three matches. Their top-order batsmen rose to the occasion, delivering a much-needed boost to their campaign. In other matches of the day, Vista Riders edged out Aspin Stallions by six runs, while Quetta Qavalary dominated the UAE Bulls with a 9-wicket win. The Gladiators, batting first, faced early setbacks as Trent Boult dismissed Nicholas Pooran and David Wiese in quick succession. Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s resilient 58 off 31 balls provided some stability, but frequent wickets at the other end limited their total to 87/7. The Warriors’ chase was spearheaded by Johnson Charles, who smashed 41 off 17 balls, setting the tone for the innings. Despite a mid-innings slowdown, Thisara Perera and Azmatullah Omarzai ensured a comfortable finish, sealing the victory in 8.2 overs and handing the reigning champions a decisive defeat.