The European Union has finalized a landmark agreement to reduce carbon emissions by 90% by 2040, marking a significant step in its climate policy. However, the deal has sparked criticism for perceived weakening of earlier commitments, particularly due to provisions allowing member states to purchase international carbon credits and reassess climate targets based on economic performance. Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland opposed the agreement, with Poland securing a delay in implementing a carbon trading plan for transport and heating. Environmental groups, including Greenpeace, condemned the deal for enabling ‘carbon laundering’ by outsourcing emission reductions to less-developed countries. Despite these concerns, EU climate ministers hailed the agreement as a necessary compromise amid geopolitical and economic tensions. The European Parliament must now vote on the agreement before it becomes legally binding. EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, will present the deal at the upcoming COP30 climate conference in Brazil, aiming to position Europe as a global leader in climate action. The agreement reflects the EU’s balancing act between environmental goals, economic competitiveness, and energy independence, as Europe faces increasing climate-related challenges like wildfires, heatwaves, and floods.
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Several critically injured after driver rams into 10 people on French island
A shocking incident unfolded on the Ile d’Oléron, off the west coast of France, when a local man in his mid-30s deliberately drove his car into pedestrians and cyclists, leaving four individuals in critical condition. The suspect, who was later arrested after being immobilized with a stun gun, targeted multiple locations on the island, including the villages of Dolus d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron. Witnesses reported a series of chaotic events that culminated outside a bakery. The mayor of Dolus d’Oléron, Thibault Brechkoff, stated that the man had driven a considerable distance between villages, injuring several people, including a young girl. After abandoning his vehicle, the suspect attempted to set it on fire before fleeing the scene. Authorities discovered gas canisters in the car, raising further concerns. The public prosecutor for La Rochelle, Arnaud Laraize, revealed that the suspect is known to the police and shouted ‘Allahu Akbar’ (‘God is greatest’) during his arrest. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has initiated an inquiry and is en route to the scene. The incident occurred around 08:45 local time (07:45 GMT), prompting the establishment of a crisis unit to manage the aftermath.
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Zohran Mamdani makes history becoming youngest mayor of New York City in over a century
In a historic victory, Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Democratic socialist, has been elected as the youngest mayor of New York City in over a century. Mamdani, who is also the first Muslim and South Asian to hold the position, triumphed over seasoned opponents Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa. His campaign, centered on prioritizing working-class citizens and taxing the wealthy to fund progressive policies, resonated strongly with younger voters. Mamdani’s proposals included free bus services, rent freezes for a million tenants, and government-subsidized grocery stores. The election saw a record-breaking voter turnout, with over 2 million New Yorkers casting their ballots, the highest since 1969. Mamdani’s win is seen as a significant boost for the Democratic Party, which has been seeking a unified voice following recent electoral setbacks. His victory also comes ahead of the 2026 midterms, positioning him as a rising star in national politics. Despite criticism from older candidates and former President Donald Trump, Mamdani garnered endorsements from prominent figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders. His success marks a generational shift in New York City’s leadership and signals a new era of progressive governance.
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Motorist drives into pedestrians and cyclists on French Atlantic island of Île d’Oléron, 9 injured
A shocking incident unfolded on the tranquil Île d’Oléron, a French island renowned for its tourist appeal, when a motorist deliberately targeted pedestrians and cyclists across two neighboring towns. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, left nine individuals injured, two of whom are in critical condition. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed the details, stating that an investigation is currently underway. The suspect, a 35-year-old French national from La Cotinière, was apprehended by gendarmes following the rampage. Thibault Brechkoff, the mayor of Dolus-d’Oléron, described the collisions as intentional, with some occurring within his town. A crisis response team was swiftly activated, and the suspect was arrested. French television broadcast images of a car allegedly set ablaze prior to the arrest. Mayor Brechkoff expressed profound shock, emphasizing the full mobilization of municipal services and the deployment of two helicopters to transport the severely injured to Poitiers on the mainland. Christophe Sueur, the mayor of nearby Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, noted that the suspect’s vehicle was heavily damaged, suggesting the driver’s awareness of his actions. The suspect, known to police for minor offenses related to theft, alcohol, and drug use, was not flagged for radicalization. The incidents, which began around 9:00 a.m. local time, occurred along roadsides between Dolus-d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, leaving the community in a state of alarm.
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Zohran Mamdani elected New York mayor; Democrats win in New Jersey, Virginia
In a historic election, Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the next mayor of New York, marking a significant victory for the Democratic Party. Mamdani, a state lawmaker from Queens, overcame intense criticism and attacks on his policies and Muslim heritage from former President Donald Trump, business elites, and conservative media. His campaign focused on addressing the rising cost of living, promising free city bus travel, childcare, and city-run grocery stores, which resonated deeply with voters. Mamdani’s victory, alongside Democratic wins in the governor’s races in Virginia and New Jersey, signals a potential shift in the political landscape as the nation looks toward next year’s midterm elections. Despite being a self-described socialist and relatively unknown before his primary win, Mamdani’s grassroots campaign and social media strategy propelled him to success. His election also highlights the ongoing ideological debate within the Democratic Party between centrist and progressive factions. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot, defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli, while in Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger unseated Republican incumbent Winsome Earle-Sears. Both races saw high-profile endorsements, with former President Barack Obama supporting the Democratic candidates and Trump rallying for Republicans. Mamdani’s victory, however, comes with challenges, as he will face significant political opposition in a city known for its complex governance.
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Zohran Mamdani elected as NYC mayor
In a historic turn of events, Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the next mayor of New York City, marking a significant milestone in the city’s political landscape. At just 34 years old, Mamdani, a Ugandan-born immigrant, becomes the youngest mayor in over a century and the first Muslim to hold the position. His campaign resonated deeply with working-class New Yorkers, focusing on making life more affordable and addressing economic disparities. Mamdani’s victory comes despite earlier opposition from former President Donald Trump, who endorsed his opponent, Andrew Cuomo, and threatened to cut federal funding to the city if Mamdani won. This election not only underscores a shift in New York City’s political priorities but also highlights the growing influence of diverse voices in American politics.
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Rama Duwaji: Who is the wife of NYC’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani?
At just 28 years old, Rama Duwaji is set to become the youngest First Lady in New York City’s history, following her husband Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the mayoral race. Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman, publicly acknowledged his wife’s unwavering support during his victory speech, affectionately referring to her as “hayati,” the Arabic term for “my life.” Duwaji, a New York-based artist of Syrian descent, has gained recognition for her work that often explores Middle Eastern themes. Her art has been featured in prominent outlets such as BBC News, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Vice, and London’s Tate Modern museum. Despite her husband’s rising political profile, Duwaji has largely remained out of the public eye, choosing to focus on her art and personal life. However, she played a significant behind-the-scenes role in shaping Mamdani’s campaign brand identity, according to CNN. Friends and acquaintances have described her as a modern-day Princess Diana, highlighting her grace and influence. Duwaji’s work often addresses political issues, including American imperialism, Israeli war crimes, and the plight of Palestinians, aligning with some of her husband’s policy positions. She has also used her platform to advocate for individuals like Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate facing deportation for his pro-Palestinian activism. Duwaji, who spent much of the COVID-19 pandemic in Dubai with her family, believes in the artist’s responsibility to reflect the times and speak out against injustice. Her journey from a Texas-born artist to New York City’s First Lady is a testament to her resilience and commitment to using art as a medium for change.
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Fast-fashion giant Shein faces backlash over Paris store opening and sales of childlike sex dolls
The fast-fashion giant Shein has ignited a storm of criticism as it opened its first permanent store in Paris on Wednesday, located within the historic BHV Marais department store. The launch, set in the heart of France’s fashion capital, has drawn fierce opposition from environmental groups, Paris City Hall, and the French ready-to-wear industry. The controversy deepened after French authorities discovered sex dolls with childlike features listed on Shein’s website, prompting a referral to prosecutors and a government warning that the platform could face a ban in France if such content resurfaces. Shein responded by banning all sex-doll products, temporarily removing its adult products category for review, and launching an internal investigation to address the oversight. Despite these measures, the brand’s arrival has been met with protests, an online petition garnering over 120,000 signatures, and condemnation from child-protection and environmental organizations. Thibaut Ledunois of the French federation of women’s ready-to-wear described the event as a ‘black day for our industry,’ criticizing Shein’s global business practices. Meanwhile, the Société des Grands Magasins (SGM), owner of BHV Marais, acknowledged the controversy but praised Shein’s swift response, expressing optimism that the partnership would revitalize the struggling department store. Founded in China in 2012 and now headquartered in Singapore, Shein has faced persistent allegations of forced labor in its supply chains, particularly in China’s Xinjiang region. SGM’s COO, Karl-Stéphane Cottendin, defended Shein, claiming the brand has made significant improvements to comply with French and European regulations. However, the fast-fashion industry’s environmental and social costs remain a pressing concern, with France advancing legislative measures to curb its influence, including advertising bans, taxes on imported parcels, and stricter waste management rules.
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Girl, 3, dies after being pulled from pool in Greece
A heartbreaking incident unfolded at a hotel in Lardos, Rhodes, where a three-year-old girl from Lancashire tragically lost her life after being found unconscious in a swimming pool. The incident occurred on October 14, when the young girl was reportedly submerged in the pool for approximately 10 minutes before a hotel guest noticed her and initiated CPR. She was immediately rushed to a hospital on the island and later transferred to Crete for further medical attention. Despite being moved to a hospital in the UK, she succumbed to her injuries 12 days later, passing away on Sunday. The UK Foreign Office has confirmed that they are providing support to the grieving family and are in contact with local authorities in Greece. Greek police have been approached for comments, while Lancashire Police stated that the matter is under the jurisdiction of Greek authorities. This tragic event has raised concerns about pool safety and the need for heightened vigilance in such environments.
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Party plenum: Charting the course for the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30)
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