The publisher of Britain’s Daily Mail, Daily Mail and General Trust plc (DMGT), has initiated exclusive negotiations to acquire Telegraph Media Group in a landmark deal valued at approximately £500 million ($654 million). This potential acquisition would unite two prominent British news organizations, both historically aligned with the right-leaning Conservative Party. The talks aim to finalize the terms of the purchase from Redbird IMI, an Abu Dhabi-backed venture, which had previously sought to acquire the Telegraph but faced scrutiny over foreign ownership concerns. The proposed transaction has reignited debates about foreign influence in British media, prompting Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to pledge a thorough review to safeguard public interest and compliance with media merger legislation. DMGT Chairman Jonathan Harmsworth, also known as Lord Rothermere, expressed confidence in the deal, envisioning the Daily Telegraph as a global brand akin to the Daily Mail. The ownership battle for the Telegraph, a cornerstone of British media since 1855, began in 2023 when the Barclay family relinquished control amid disputes with lenders. In November 2023, RedBird Capital and Abu Dhabi’s International Media Investments had agreed to acquire the Telegraph to settle the Barclays’ debts, sparking parliamentary debates about foreign state influence in national media. The previous Conservative government, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, swiftly announced plans to review the deal, emphasizing the importance of preserving editorial independence and freedom of expression in British newspapers.
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Trump-Mamdani meet: Foes turn friends? US President all smiles, praise for New York mayor-elect
In a surprising turn of events, US President Donald Trump and New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani set aside their past animosity to engage in a cordial and collaborative meeting at the White House. The encounter, which took place on Friday, marked a stark contrast to their previous exchanges, where Trump had falsely labeled Mamdani as an antisemitic communist. The 79-year-old president warmly greeted the 34-year-old democratic socialist, patting him on the arm and expressing optimism about their shared goals for New York City. Despite their ideological differences, the two leaders found common ground on issues such as crime reduction and affordability. Trump, a Republican billionaire, and Mamdani, a rising star in the Democratic Party, pledged to work together for the betterment of the city. The meeting, which exceeded expectations, hinted at the possibility of a professional friendship that could reshape the political landscape. Both leaders laughed off their past insults, with Trump defending Mamdani against Islamophobic slurs and describing him as a ‘very rational person.’ The unexpected camaraderie left many political commentators and lawmakers puzzled, with some Republicans expressing skepticism about Mamdani’s intentions. However, the meeting signaled a potential shift in the dynamics between the two leaders, who had previously clashed on issues ranging from immigration to economic policy.
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UAE weather: Dubai temperature to dip to 22ºC; alerts issued for fog
As the UAE transitions into the winter season, residents can anticipate a comfortable climate with temperatures remaining below 30ºC. On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the weather across the country is expected to be fair to partly cloudy, with occasional dust in eastern regions. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued red and yellow alerts for fog, particularly affecting visibility in certain areas until 10:30 AM. Low clouds are anticipated over the sea and islands, accompanied by a gradual drop in temperatures. In Dubai, the mercury is forecasted to range between 22ºC and 30ºC, while Abu Dhabi will experience lows of 21ºC and highs of 30ºC. Humidity is expected to increase by night and into Sunday morning, potentially leading to fog or mist formation in coastal and internal areas. Winds will remain light to moderate, with speeds ranging from 15 to 25 kmph, occasionally reaching up to 40 kmph. Sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf will be slight to moderate, while the Oman Sea will remain calm. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and exercise caution during periods of reduced visibility.
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Nigeria sees one of worst mass abductions as 315 taken from school
In a devastating early morning raid, armed assailants stormed St Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger state, Nigeria, kidnapping over 300 children and staff. The attack, which occurred around 02:00 local time on Friday, marks one of the largest mass abductions in the country’s history. Initial reports estimated 215 victims, but the Christian Association of Nigeria later revised the figure to 303 students and 12 teachers after a thorough verification process. The school, a Catholic institution, had reportedly ignored government orders to close its boarding facilities despite intelligence warnings of heightened security risks. Local police and security agencies are now conducting extensive search operations in nearby forests to rescue the abducted individuals. The incident has sparked widespread fear and anger across Nigeria, with citizens demanding stronger government action to protect schools and communities. This kidnapping is the third such attack in Nigeria within a week, following the abduction of over 20 Muslim schoolgirls in Kebbi state and a church attack in Kwara state that left two dead and 38 kidnapped. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has postponed his foreign engagements, including the G20 summit in South Africa, to address the escalating security crisis. The central government has also ordered the closure of more than 40 federal colleges and public schools in several states. The rising insecurity has fueled public outrage, with many calling for more effective measures to combat the growing threat of criminal gangs, locally known as bandits, who frequently kidnap for ransom. Despite the government’s ban on ransom payments, the practice continues to thrive, exacerbating the crisis. The mass abduction has also reignited debates about religious persecution in Nigeria, with U.S. right-wing figures, including former President Donald Trump, accusing Islamist militants of targeting Christians. However, the Nigerian government has dismissed these claims, stating that terrorist attacks affect people of all faiths and are often driven by resource competition rather than religion.
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How Dubai Airshow ensures spectators’ safety during high-flying aerial displays
The Dubai Airshow 2025, a premier aviation event showcasing cutting-edge aircraft and high-octane aerial displays, faced a somber moment when an Indian Tejas fighter jet crashed during a stunt, resulting in the tragic death of the pilot. Despite this incident, the organizers emphasized the rigorous safety measures in place to protect spectators and ensure the event’s overall security. The airshow, held at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), operates within a controlled airspace, with display planes performing aerobatics away from the spectator area. Pilots are required to adhere to strict regulations, including obtaining Display Authorisation, maintaining safe separation from the crowd, and submitting detailed flight plans. The Flying Control Committee (FCC) oversees all aspects of the event, from pilot briefings to practice sessions, ensuring compliance with UAE Civil Aviation Regulations. Emergency response teams were quick to act during the crash, evacuating the crowd efficiently. The event’s safety protocols, including height restrictions, pre-approved manoeuvres, and standby search and rescue operations, highlight the organizers’ commitment to balancing thrilling displays with spectator safety.
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Seven bodyguards arrested over Mexican mayor’s murder
In a shocking turn of events, Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan and a vocal opponent of cartel violence, was brutally assassinated on November 1 during a public Day of the Dead ceremony. The incident has sent shockwaves through Mexico, highlighting the pervasive influence of organized crime in the region. Authorities have since arrested seven bodyguards allegedly involved in the murder, accusing them of complicity through negligence in the aggravated homicide of the 40-year-old mayor. The attorney general’s office in Michoacán state confirmed the arrests, which were carried out by both state and federal officials, including the National Guard. The suspects were led out of a municipal building near the crime scene on Friday, according to the Associated Press. Manzo, who was attending the ceremony with his family, was shot seven times by a lone gunman, causing panic among bystanders. His bodyguards later restrained and shot the assailant. Manzo had been a prominent critic of the extortion and threats faced by avocado growers in the region, and had called on the federal government to take stronger action against cartels. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), known for drug trafficking, kidnapping, and extortion, has been implicated in the murder. The cartel is notorious for targeting public officials who resist their demands. On Wednesday, Mexican officials arrested Jorge Amando, the alleged mastermind behind the assassination. The CJNG, considered the most powerful criminal organization in Michoacán, is engaged in violent turf wars with other gangs over control of drug, arms, and fuel smuggling routes, often resulting in deadly confrontations. Manzo’s assassination has sparked mass protests and raised serious questions about the effectiveness of security measures for public officials in Mexico.
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23 children die of malnutrition within a month in Sudan’s Kordofan region
In a tragic revelation, nearly two dozen children have succumbed to malnutrition-related causes in central Sudan over the span of a month, according to a medical group. The deaths occurred in the Kordofan region, a focal point of the ongoing conflict between Sudan’s military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This grim statistic highlights the escalating humanitarian catastrophe in the northeastern African nation, where famine is spreading after more than 30 months of relentless warfare. The conflict, which erupted in April 2023 following a power struggle between the military and the RSF, has claimed over 40,000 lives, according to U.N. estimates, though aid organizations believe the actual toll is significantly higher. The war has displaced over 14 million people, triggered disease outbreaks, and pushed parts of the country into famine. As of September, approximately 370,000 people in Kordofan and Darfur were classified as experiencing famine, with an additional 3.6 million teetering on the brink. The Sudan Doctors Network reported that the 23 children died between October 20 and November 20 in the besieged city of Kadugli and the town of Dilling, attributing the deaths to severe acute malnutrition and shortages of essential supplies. Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan province, has been under blockade for months, preventing the entry of food and medicine and endangering thousands of civilians. Dilling, also in South Kordofan, faces similar conditions, though famine has not been officially declared due to insufficient data. The RSF’s aggressive campaign in Kordofan and el-Fasher has exacerbated the crisis, with tens of thousands fleeing reported atrocities, including mass killings and sexual assaults. Satellite images from the Yale School of Public Health’s Humanitarian Research Lab suggest ongoing efforts by the RSF to dispose of bodies in el-Fasher, raising grave concerns about the fate of civilians remaining in the city.
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Brazil’s Supreme Court orders Bolsonaro’s arrest ahead of prison sentence
In a dramatic turn of events, Brazil’s Supreme Court has mandated the preemptive arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro, just days before he was scheduled to commence a 27-year prison sentence for orchestrating a coup attempt. The decision, issued by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, underscores the gravity of the charges against Bolsonaro, who was swiftly transferred from house arrest to the federal police headquarters in Brasília early Saturday morning. Justice de Moraes emphasized that the arrest should be conducted with dignity, prohibiting the use of handcuffs and media exposure. Bolsonaro’s aide, Andriely Cirino, confirmed the arrest occurred around 6 a.m., following the unexpected ruling. The 70-year-old former president was taken from his residence in the affluent Jardim Botânico neighborhood to the federal police facility. The arrest follows a controversial video released by Bolsonaro’s son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, which allegedly incited supporters to protest in defense of his father. Justice de Moraes condemned the video, stating it promoted disrespect for democratic institutions and sought to incite chaos. Bolsonaro’s conviction stems from his role in a failed coup attempt after his 2022 election loss to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Prosecutors revealed the plot included plans to assassinate Lula and instigate an insurrection. Despite his legal troubles, Bolsonaro remains a significant political figure, with polls suggesting he would be a formidable candidate in future elections if eligible. His case has drawn international attention, with U.S. President Donald Trump labeling the trial a ‘witch hunt.’ The arrest marks a pivotal moment in Brazil’s ongoing struggle to uphold democratic principles.
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Chinese, Uzbek FMs hold second strategic dialogue
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Uzbek counterpart Bakhtiyor Saidov convened the second strategic dialogue in Tashkent on Friday. Wang emphasized the importance of steering bilateral relations towards a new benchmark of good neighborliness, solidarity, and mutual trust. He highlighted the need to leverage the strategic dialogue platform to implement key agreements reached by the two heads of state. Wang reiterated China’s commitment to viewing Uzbekistan as a priority in its neighborhood diplomacy and a crucial partner in its global diplomatic strategy. He expressed China’s support for Uzbekistan’s development path tailored to its national conditions and its aspirations for a new Uzbekistan. Wang also noted that China has emerged as Uzbekistan’s largest trading partner and a major source of investment. The two nations are set to collaborate on the landmark China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, diversify connectivity networks, and enhance cooperation in green minerals, new energy, and high technology. Additionally, Wang called for strengthened exchanges in education, culture, and tourism. He commended Uzbekistan’s achievements in poverty reduction and offered to share China’s experience in poverty alleviation and rural revitalization. Saidov expressed gratitude for China’s support in improving livelihoods and reducing poverty in Uzbekistan. He expressed Uzbekistan’s desire to learn from China’s governance experience, strengthen high-level exchanges, expand bilateral trade, deepen Belt and Road cooperation, and jointly combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism. The meeting concluded with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also meeting with Wang, further solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations.
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Captain Cummins could return for second Ashes Test
Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins has expressed optimism about his potential return for the second Ashes Test against England, scheduled to begin on December 4 at Brisbane’s Gabba. The 32-year-old fast bowler missed the opening Test in Perth due to a back injury but has been making steady progress in his recovery. Despite his absence, Australia dominated the first Test, dismissing England for 172 and 164 in their two innings, with Mitchell Starc claiming 10 wickets to secure an emphatic eight-wicket victory within two days. Cummins, who was temporarily replaced by Steve Smith as captain and Scott Boland as a fast bowler, hinted at reclaiming both roles for the upcoming day-night Test. ‘It’s feeling good,’ Cummins stated during an interview on Fox Sports TV. ‘I had a couple of good sessions in Perth this week, and I’m on track. I’m half a chance for the next game.’ However, concerns remain over the fitness of top-order batsman Usman Khawaja, who injured his back during the first Test and was unable to open the innings. ‘Unfortunately, Uzzy is not moving too well,’ Cummins added. ‘His back flared up again in the slips, so he was unable to open.’ As Australia prepares for the second Test, Cummins’ potential return could bolster their already formidable lineup.