The city of Pokrovsk in Ukraine’s Donetsk region has become the epicenter of a fierce and strategically significant battle between Russian and Ukrainian forces. The conflict has reached a critical juncture, with both sides locked in intense combat, often vying for control of the same residential buildings. Beyond the battlefield, Pokrovsk has emerged as a focal point in the diplomatic struggle between Russia and Ukraine, as both nations seek to influence U.S. President Donald Trump’s perception of the war. Russia claims to have surrounded Pokrovsk and thwarted Ukrainian efforts to reopen supply lines, while Ukraine denies a blockade and asserts that its forces are inflicting heavy losses on Russian troops. Russian forces, having exploited gaps in Ukrainian defenses last month, are now poised to seize the city entirely in the coming weeks or months, according to experts. Ukrainian commanders on the ground admit the situation is dire, with Russian forces controlling over 70% of Pokrovsk. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged the grim reality, stating that Russia’s primary objective is to occupy Pokrovsk as quickly as possible. The battle for Pokrovsk is part of a broader conflict in the Donetsk region, which has seen Russia advance 39 kilometers (24 miles) over the past year, according to the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War. The city, once a crucial logistics hub for Ukrainian forces, has seen its strategic value diminished due to the destruction of key infrastructure. However, its fall would represent a significant propaganda victory for Russia, bolstering President Vladimir Putin’s narrative of progress in the war. Analysts warn that the loss of Pokrovsk could pave the way for Russia to take the rest of the Donbas region, though such advances would come at a high cost in manpower and military equipment. Despite the bleak outlook, Ukrainian forces remain determined to hold the city for as long as possible, deploying elite units and launching counteroffensive operations. The next few weeks are expected to see continued heavy fighting, with Russian forces likely to pour troops into the city until Ukrainian defenses are overwhelmed. The battle for Pokrovsk is not just a military struggle but also a psychological and diplomatic one, with both sides seeking to shape the narrative of the war and influence the course of peace negotiations.
博客
-
Gunshots end months-long Canadian ostrich cull saga that captivated RFK Jr
The culling of over 300 ostriches in British Columbia has ignited a heated debate, drawing attention from across Canada and beyond. The birds, owned by Universal Ostrich Farms, were ordered to be euthanized after two tested positive for avian flu (H5N1) following an outbreak that claimed 69 birds. Despite a months-long legal battle that reached the Supreme Court of Canada, the farm owners were unable to overturn the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) decision. The court dismissed the case on Thursday, allowing the cull to proceed. The decision has been met with widespread protest, with supporters including American grocery billionaire John Catsimatidis, US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr., and celebrity doctor Dr. Mehmet Oz, who even offered to adopt the birds. The farm’s co-owner, Katie Pasitney, expressed her devastation in a tearful video, stating, ‘Shame on you Canada. The world is watching.’ The ostriches had become a political symbol, with critics accusing the Canadian government of overreach. The case has also highlighted tensions in the small town of Edgewood, where the farm is located, with local businesses reporting disruptions caused by protesters. The CFIA defended its decision, emphasizing the need to protect public health and Canada’s poultry industry. Meanwhile, Kennedy and others have argued for studying the birds for potential immunity to avian flu, rather than culling them. The saga has underscored the complexities of balancing public health measures with ethical and legal concerns.
-
Kim Kardashian laughs off savage reviews for her TV drama
Kim Kardashian has taken a bold stance against critics of her latest legal drama, ‘All’s Fair,’ by showcasing fan reactions on social media. The Disney+ series, in which Kardashian portrays top divorce lawyer Allura Grant, has been met with scathing reviews from major publications. The Guardian described it as ‘so awful, it feels almost contemptuous,’ while The Times labeled it ‘the worst TV drama ever.’ Despite this, Kardashian humorously promoted the show to her 354 million Instagram followers, calling it ‘the most critically acclaimed show of the year.’ The series currently holds a dismal 5% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, though it fares better with audiences at 66%. Kardashian shared fan comments, including one that joked critics’ negative reviews inadvertently drove viewership. The show boasts a star-studded cast, including Sarah Paulson, Naomi Watts, Glenn Close, Niecy Nash, and Teyana Taylor. One fan quipped, ‘Does a show need to be good? The answer is no.’ Another praised the ‘legendary actresses’ for their ‘worst performances,’ calling it ‘amazeballs.’ This marks Kardashian’s second acting role after her well-received appearance in ‘American Horror Story.’ ‘All’s Fair’ reunites her with showrunner Ryan Murphy, known for hits like ‘Glee’ and ‘Pose.’ Critics have torn the show apart, with The Huffington Post calling it a ‘boring dud’ and Variety labeling it a ‘clumsy take on girlboss feminism.’ However, Kardashian remains undeterred, sharing Disney Hulu data confirming the show as the most-watched title on Disney+ globally, ranking first in 28 countries, including the US.
-
E-Home Movers expands office relocation services to power Dubai’s business growth
E-Home Movers & Packers, a leading Dubai-based moving company, has announced a significant expansion of its corporate relocation services to cater to the increasing demand for efficient, secure, and technology-driven office moves. This strategic enhancement aims to support Dubai’s rapidly growing business environment by offering end-to-end solutions that minimize disruptions during corporate relocations. The upgraded service includes meticulous planning, secure handling of sensitive equipment, and flexible scheduling to accommodate businesses of all sizes. A spokesperson for E-Home Movers emphasized the company’s commitment to providing seamless relocations, stating, ‘As Dubai’s business landscape evolves, companies require dependable partners to ensure smooth transitions. Our enhanced services are tailored to meet these needs with precision and confidence.’ Key features of the expanded service include dedicated teams for large-scale moves, secure packaging for sensitive items, and transparent pricing. With Dubai experiencing a surge in office expansions, particularly in areas like Business Bay and Downtown Dubai, E-Home Movers is positioning itself as a trusted leader in corporate relocations. The company is also investing in advanced technology, such as GPS-tracked vehicles and real-time move tracking, to enhance efficiency and safety. Beyond corporate services, E-Home Movers continues to expand its residential moving offerings, combining technology with personalized customer care. Looking ahead, the company plans to extend its services to other Emirates and introduce eco-friendly packing materials as part of its sustainability initiatives, further solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking mover in the UAE.
-
Indonesian mosque blast leaves 54 injured: police
A devastating explosion rocked a mosque within a school complex in Jakarta, Indonesia, during Friday prayers on November 7, 2025, leaving 54 individuals injured, according to Jakarta Police Chief Asep Edi Suheri. The incident occurred in the bustling capital city, prompting immediate responses from armed police and military personnel who swiftly secured the area. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the explosion, but the scene was marked by chaos and urgency as emergency services rushed to aid the wounded. The mosque, located within a school compound, was filled with worshippers at the time of the blast, amplifying the scale of the tragedy. This event has raised concerns about security in public spaces, particularly during religious gatherings. Investigations are ongoing, with officials vowing to uncover the circumstances behind the explosion and ensure such incidents are prevented in the future. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, with medical teams working tirelessly to provide care. The incident has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the vulnerability of crowded spaces to sudden acts of violence.
-
UAE: Schengen visa appointments ‘almost full’ amid plans for festive Europe holidays
As the festive season approaches, UAE residents are scrambling to secure Schengen visas to experience Europe’s enchanting Christmas villages and winter wonderlands. Travel agencies report that visa appointment slots are nearly fully booked, with high demand pushing availability well into the new year. Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager at Wisefox Tourism, noted that while visas for Malta, Bulgaria, and Poland are still available this month, appointments for the Netherlands and Germany are already booked until March and January, respectively. The surge in demand reflects the growing popularity of European destinations during the holiday season. Among Schengen countries, Switzerland remains the top choice for UAE travellers, followed by Italy, Spain, and France, known for their scenic towns and festive atmospheres. Travel consultants like Pavan Poojary of Luxury Travels emphasize that many residents are planning their trips around visa availability rather than preferred travel dates. With processing times averaging 15 days, securing a visa in time for Christmas travel requires careful planning. For those unable to secure Schengen visas, lesser-known destinations such as Bulgaria and Malta remain viable options. Travel experts advise early applications to avoid disappointment, as the allure of Europe’s winter charm continues to draw crowds.
-
Park Properties hosts exclusive real estate evening showcasing Ajman Creek Towers
Park Properties recently hosted an exclusive real estate evening at the luxurious Bahi Ajman Palace, gathering top brokers, investors, and media representatives to celebrate excellence and growth in the UAE property market. The event served as a strategic networking platform, uniting key players in the real estate and investment sectors. Attendees gained valuable insights into Park Properties’ expanding portfolio, with a special focus on the flagship development, Ajman Creek Towers, which promises to redefine affordable waterfront living in the Emirates. Positioned as the most affordable waterfront property in the UAE, Ajman Creek Towers offers an eight per cent commission payable within 30 days and a one per cent monthly payment plan, ensuring quick returns and sustainable profitability for investors. To further incentivize its partner ecosystem, Park Properties announced limited-time rewards, including two Jetours for top-performing agencies and brokers, valid until December 31, 2025, and a gold coin offer available until November 15, 2025. The evening featured presentations by the company’s leadership team, including CEO Muhammad Asif Abdul Jabbar, who emphasized the company’s mission to empower brokers and investors with projects that deliver value, credibility, and long-term growth. The event also highlighted Glam Residence, a ready-to-move-in property in Al Zorah’s Golf Course Community, showcasing Park Properties’ commitment to offering diverse investment options. With over 750 brokers and industry professionals in attendance, the event underscored the growing trust and enthusiasm for Park Properties’ developments, solidifying its reputation as a trusted and performance-driven real estate developer in the UAE.
-
Kendrick Lamar and Lady Gaga lead 2026 Grammy nominations
The 2026 Grammy Awards nominations have been unveiled, with Lady Gaga and Kendrick Lamar leading the pack. Lamar, the Compton rapper, secures nine nominations, including Album of the Year for his critically acclaimed GNX. This marks his second consecutive year as the most-nominated artist. Lady Gaga follows closely with seven nominations, including Album of the Year for Mayhem, a project that revisits her electro-pop roots. Notably, K-Pop has made a groundbreaking entry into the Song of the Year category, with Rosé and Bruno Mars’ APT and Hunter/x’s Golden from the Netflix animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters both earning spots. This is the first time K-Pop has been recognized in this prestigious category. Additionally, Lamar and SZA’s Luther, which dominated the US Billboard charts for 11 weeks, has garnered multiple nominations. The Album of the Year category also sees a historic moment with three rap albums—Lamar’s GNX, Tyler, The Creator’s Chromakopia, and Clipse’s Let God Sort Em Out—making the shortlist for the first time. Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, set to headline the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show, is also nominated for his innovative Spanish-language album Debí Tirar Más Fotos. Other notable nominees include Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish, and British stars Olivia Dean and Lola Young in the Best New Artist category. The awards ceremony will take place on February 1, 2026, in Los Angeles.
-
‘We hate winter’: Palestinians face the rain without shelters as Israel blocks tents
In the aftermath of heavy rains, the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza transforms into a waterlogged swamp, where mud clings to shoes and stagnant pools form between sagging tents. For Hamza al-Mutawwaq, a Palestinian father, and his family, this is a grim reality they must endure daily. “It’s as if people are sleeping on a flowing river of rainwater,” he lamented. After two years of relentless Israeli bombardment, nearly 2.2 million Gazans now face an additional threat: the onset of winter. Over 80% of Gaza’s structures have been destroyed since October 2023, forcing hundreds of thousands like al-Mutawwaq to live in makeshift tents. Despite hopes that a ceasefire would bring temporary shelters, Israeli violations have left these families exposed to the elements. “The whole world eagerly awaits the mild winter season, but for us, it will be a curse,” al-Mutawwaq told Middle East Eye. With no relief in sight, many have turned to the black market for winter essentials, but exorbitant prices make these items unattainable for most. Amjad al-Shawa, head of the Palestinian NGOs Network, described the situation as “catastrophic,” urging swift action to bring in essential supplies. According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, Israel has allowed only 155 aid trucks daily, far below the 600 stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. Ismail al-Thawabta, the office’s spokesperson, warned of a potentially harsh winter, with half a million children and nearly 100,000 pregnant women at risk. For Amal Mehanna, a widow and mother of three, winter brings fear and anxiety. “We live in constant dread of its arrival,” she said, recalling how her daughter fell ill last winter due to the lack of warm clothing and blankets. As winter approaches, Gaza’s displaced face a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflict and insufficient aid.
-
China starts construction of water diversion project to quench thirst of metropolis
China has officially commenced the construction of a groundbreaking water diversion project aimed at addressing the acute water shortages in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province. The project, launched on Friday, will channel water from the Dadu River into the ancient Dujiangyan irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been pivotal in the region’s agricultural prosperity for over 2,000 years. The initiative will leverage a natural elevation drop to transport water through an extensive network of over 260 kilometers of tunnels and pipelines to the Chengdu Plain, supplementing the existing water supply from the Minjiang River. Scheduled for completion in eight years, the project is expected to transfer 1.39 billion cubic meters of water annually by 2040, increasing to 1.52 billion cubic meters by 2050. This ambitious endeavor will benefit 34.13 million people across 43 county-level areas in eight cities, while also supporting vast tracts of farmland. The project, which has been in the planning stages since the 1950s, represents a critical component of China’s national water network, integrating urban and rural water supply, irrigation, ecological water replenishment, and emergency water sourcing. As rapid socio-economic development in western China continues to strain water resources, this project marks a significant step in ensuring sustainable water management for the region’s future growth.