Global Pulse

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  • Warning against mushroom foraging in California after fatal poisoning

    Warning against mushroom foraging in California after fatal poisoning

    California health authorities have issued a critical public health advisory urging residents to strictly avoid foraging for wild mushrooms following a concerning cluster of severe poisonings across the state. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) confirmed at least 21 cases of amatoxin poisoning linked to death cap mushroom consumption, resulting in multiple hospitalizations with severe liver damage and at least one fatality.

    The poisoning incidents, concentrated in Northern California’s Monterey and San Francisco Bay areas between mid-November and early December, have affected both adults and children. Several victims suffered acute liver failure, with at least one patient potentially requiring emergency liver transplantation. Health officials emphasize that the current rainy season creates ideal growing conditions for these toxic fungi, particularly around oak and pine trees.

    Death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides) pose exceptional danger due to their deceptive resemblance to edible varieties in appearance, scent, and taste. CDPH Director Dr. Erica Pan warned that these mushrooms ‘contain potentially deadly toxins that can lead to liver failure’ and stressed that no cooking method—including boiling, drying, freezing, or conventional preparation—can neutralize their toxicity.

    Initial symptoms typically manifest within 6-24 hours of consumption and include violent gastrointestinal distress: watery diarrhea, persistent vomiting, abdominal cramping, nausea, and dehydration. While these symptoms may temporarily subside, potentially fatal liver damage can develop silently over the following week.

    Monterey County Health Officer Dr. Edward Moreno emphasized that ‘only people with extensive training and experience should eat wild mushrooms that they have picked themselves.’ The CDPH maintains that the risk extends statewide despite current cluster locations, advising complete avoidance of wild mushroom consumption during this high-risk period.

  • New US security strategy aligns with Russia’s vision, Moscow says

    New US security strategy aligns with Russia’s vision, Moscow says

    The Kremlin has expressed approval of the Trump administration’s newly unveiled National Security Strategy, describing its core principles as substantially aligned with Moscow’s geopolitical perspective. Released last week, the 33-page document presents a radical departure from traditional U.S. foreign policy by reframing Europe’s challenges as existential threats while notably avoiding characterization of Russia as a direct adversary to American interests.

    Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov conveyed Moscow’s position through state-owned TASS news agency on Sunday, stating, “The adjustments we’re seeing are largely consistent with our vision. We consider this a positive step.” The Russian government indicated it would continue analyzing the document before forming definitive conclusions.

    The strategic blueprint identifies combatting foreign influence, halting mass migration, and resisting the European Union’s perceived practices of “censorship” as primary objectives. It advances controversial language suggesting Europe faces “civilisational erasure” and questions whether certain European nations will maintain sufficiently robust economies and militaries to remain reliable U.S. allies.

    European leaders and policy experts have responded with measured concern. German Foreign Minister Wadephul acknowledged the enduring importance of NATO alliances while questioning the document’s focus on freedom of expression issues. “The US will remain our most important ally in the alliance. This alliance, however, is focused on addressing security policy issues,” he stated on Friday.

    Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk delivered a more direct message via social media, asserting to his “American friends” that “Europe is your closest ally, not your problem” and emphasizing their “common enemies.” Meanwhile, former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt characterized the document as positioning itself “to the right of the extreme right.”

    The strategy advocates for re-establishing strategic stability with Russia, which European officials fear could undermine collective efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict. It specifically criticizes the EU for allegedly obstructing American peace initiatives and endorses influencing policy through alignment with “patriotic European parties.”

    Additional components include potential military operations against alleged drug-trafficking vessels in Caribbean and eastern Pacific waters, possible intervention in Venezuela, and calls for increased defense spending from Pacific allies including Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Taiwan.

    Congressional Democrats have issued stern warnings about the document’s potential consequences. Representative Jason Crow of Colorado, who serves on House intelligence and armed services committees, labeled the strategy “catastrophic to America’s standing in the world,” while New York Representative Gregory Meeks argued it “discards decades of value-based, U.S. leadership.”

  • Katy Perry goes Instagram official with Justin Trudeau

    Katy Perry goes Instagram official with Justin Trudeau

    Pop icon Katy Perry has ignited widespread speculation about a potential romantic involvement with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after sharing an intimate glimpse of their time together in Japan on her Instagram account. The 41-year-old singer posted a collection of photographs and videos from Tokyo, where she is currently performing as part of her global Lifetimes Tour.

    The social media reveal includes a particularly close selfie showing Perry and Trudeau with their faces touching, both radiating smiles. Another clip captures the pair sampling sushi together, adding fuel to growing rumors about their relationship status. The post was accompanied by the caption: “Tokyo times on tour and more.”

    This development follows months of mounting speculation about their connection, beginning when Trudeau was spotted attending Perry’s concert earlier this year. The relationship appears to have progressed significantly, as evidenced by last month’s photographs published by TMZ showing the pair walking hand-in-hand during an event in Paris coinciding with Perry’s birthday.

    The Japan trip also included diplomatic elements, with Trudeau reposting a photograph on X featuring both himself and Perry alongside former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko. Trudeau commented: “Great to see you @kishida230. Katy and I were so glad to have the chance to sit down with you and Yuko.”

    Neither Perry nor Trudeau have officially confirmed the nature of their relationship. During a recent London performance, Perry made a suggestive comment when a fan proposed to her from the audience, joking: “I wish you’d asked me 48 hours ago”—just days after images of her with Trudeau first surfaced online.

    Both individuals recently ended long-term relationships: Perry separated from actor Orlando Bloom after a decade together (they share a daughter), while Trudeau finalized his divorce from Sophie Grégoire in 2023 after 18 years of marriage (they share three children).

  • Watch: Moment Hawaii volcano eruption engulfs camera

    Watch: Moment Hawaii volcano eruption engulfs camera

    Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano, renowned as one of the planet’s most geologically active sites, has provided a spectacular display of nature’s power as surveillance equipment captured the precise moment its latest eruption overwhelmed a monitoring camera. The remarkable footage shows incandescent lava and volcanic material completely engulfing the recording device, offering scientists and the public alike a rare first-person perspective of volcanic violence.

    This ongoing eruptive phase represents the latest chapter in Kilauea’s sustained period of activity that recommenced in December of the previous year. The volcano’s intermittent eruptions have characterized its behavior patterns throughout this cycle, with periods of heightened activity followed by relative calm.

    Geological experts from the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continue to monitor Kilauea’s behavior around the clock, utilizing both the captured footage and other monitoring technologies to better understand eruption dynamics. These visual records provide invaluable data for predicting future eruption patterns and enhancing early warning systems for communities near active volcanic zones worldwide.

    The documentation of such extreme geological events contributes significantly to volcanology research while simultaneously demonstrating the raw, unstoppable force of nature that continues to shape the Hawaiian landscape.

  • ‘Ketamine Queen’ spiralled before Matthew Perry death, friends tell BBC

    ‘Ketamine Queen’ spiralled before Matthew Perry death, friends tell BBC

    A sophisticated drug network supplying Hollywood’s elite has been dismantled following the overdose death of Friends actor Matthew Perry, with British-American national Jasveen Sangha emerging as the central figure in what authorities describe as a “stash house” operation catering to celebrities.

    Sangha, who maintained the illusion of a charmed life through her social media influencer persona, pleaded guilty to federal drug offenses alongside five co-defendants, including two medical professionals. The case exposed an extensive ketamine distribution ring that operated within Los Angeles’ exclusive party circuits.

    Despite her privileged background—including an MBA from London’s Hult International Business School and family connections to fashion retail multimillionaires—Sangha built a clandestine operation dealing cocaine, Xanax, counterfeit Adderall, and ketamine to high-profile clients. Her operation collapsed after supplying 50 vials of ketamine that ultimately reached Matthew Perry, leading to his fatal overdose in 2023.

    Former DEA special agent Bill Bodner characterized Sangha as “a highly educated person who decided to make their living trafficking drugs, and use that money from drug trafficking to finance this social media influencer persona.” Court documents reveal Perry had been legally prescribed ketamine for depression treatment but sought additional supplies beyond medical supervision, eventually connecting with Sangha’s network through intermediaries.

    Friends interviewed for an upcoming BBC documentary expressed shock at Sangha’s double life. Longtime associate Tony Marquez, who partied extensively with Sangha throughout the 2010s, stated: “Years and years I’ve known this person. I know her family. I know the way she acts… I can’t believe this is happening.” Marquez speculated Sangha became “addicted to that life of dealing to celebrities” and the social status it provided.

    Prosecutors revealed Sangha continued operations despite prior fatal consequences. In 2019, she sold ketamine to Cody McLaury, who died from an overdose. When confronted by McLaury’s sister, Sangha persisted in her activities rather than ceasing distribution.

    Former Central District of California prosecutor Martin Estrada noted: “Any person with any semblance of a heart would stop their activities… She continued doing this, and we saw, several years later, the continuation of her conduct resulted in the death of yet another person.”

    Sangha, who reportedly attended rehabilitation and maintained sobriety for 17 months according to court filings, faces sentencing in February with a maximum penalty of 65 years in federal prison. Her attorney Mark Geragos stated she “feels horrible” and is taking responsibility while denying personal acquaintance with Perry.

  • UAE weather: Red alert issued for fog; temperatures to dip to 10ºC

    UAE weather: Red alert issued for fog; temperatures to dip to 10ºC

    Meteorological authorities in the United Arab Emirates have escalated weather warnings to red alert status as dense fog conditions envelop western regions, creating potentially hazardous visibility conditions for residents and travelers. The National Centre of Meteorology issued the critical advisory effective from 2:00 AM until 9:30 AM local time on December 7th, 2025.

    According to the comprehensive forecast, the UAE will experience generally fair to partly cloudy conditions throughout the day, with isolated low cloud formations anticipated over western coastal areas and islands. Temperature extremes will characterize the day’s weather pattern, with maximum temperatures reaching 31ºC in some regions while internal areas may see mercury levels drop to a chilly 10ºC. Urban centers will experience more moderate ranges, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai recording highs of 30ºC and lows of 19ºC and 20ºC respectively.

    Humidity levels will significantly increase during nighttime and Monday morning hours, particularly across western territories. Meteorological data indicates humidity percentages will fluctuate between 30-85% in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, creating muggy conditions alongside the temperature variations.

    Wind patterns will remain generally light to moderate throughout the affected period, blowing predominantly from southeasterly to northeasterly directions. Wind speeds are forecast to maintain 10-20 km/h ranges, occasionally gusting to 30 km/h. Maritime conditions appear calm with slight seas reported in both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea.

    The National Centre of Meteorology continues to monitor developments and advises residents to exercise caution during early morning travel, particularly in western regions where reduced visibility conditions prevail.

  • Emiratis, expats of 35 nationalities to go on 1,000km desert expedition in Abu Dhabi

    Emiratis, expats of 35 nationalities to go on 1,000km desert expedition in Abu Dhabi

    Abu Dhabi prepares to host an extraordinary cultural and physical endurance event as 100 selected youth embark on the groundbreaking ‘Mesrah Mission’ from December 8-22, 2025. This ambitious 1,000-kilometer desert expedition across Abu Dhabi’s terrain represents a unique fusion of heritage preservation and community building initiatives.

    Organized through a collaborative effort between Emirates Foundation and Active Abu Dhabi, the program forms an integral component of the Year of Community 2025 framework. The initiative specifically aims to strengthen national identity among Emirati youth while fostering cross-cultural understanding among the 35 nationalities represented among participants.

    The journey will retrace ancient nomadic pathways, commencing in Al Sila within the Al Dhafra region. Participants will traverse diverse landscapes including the expansive Liwa Desert, the majestic Jebel Hafeet, and the cultural heartland of Al Ain, culminating in a final celebration at Al Wathba on December 22. The expedition structure divides participants into five teams who will utilize fifteen strategically positioned camps throughout their journey.

    According to organizational leadership, the mission transcends physical challenge by incorporating profound cultural immersion. Ahmad Taleb Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation, emphasized that “Mesrah Mission represents a values-driven experience designed to strengthen young people’s connection to their heritage while building community spirit and inspiring meaningful national contribution.”

    Comprehensive preparatory training supervised by Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority equipped participants with essential traditional skills including camel riding, Emirati craftsmanship etiquette (‘sana’a’), and ancestral desert navigation techniques. This preparatory phase ensured participants could fully engage with the historical and cultural dimensions of the experience.

    Robust logistical support includes continuous medical, security, and technical accompaniment throughout the two-week journey. Mansour Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Active Abu Dhabi, highlighted the initiative’s dual focus on “motivating youth through heritage-inspired physical activity while strengthening connections to national traditions via an innovative sports-identity integration approach.”

    Participants expressed enthusiastic anticipation for the transformative experience. Emirati participant Fatima Al Hosani noted the opportunity to “witness the contrast between historical and contemporary living conditions, appreciating the national efforts behind modern wellbeing standards.” International participant Yevhenii, a 31-year-old from Ukraine, shared his motivation to “deepen understanding of Emirati customs and heritage” through direct experiential learning.

  • US National Park Service removes free entry on MLK Day and Juneteenth

    US National Park Service removes free entry on MLK Day and Juneteenth

    The U.S. National Park Service (NPS) has announced significant modifications to its fee-free entrance day program, eliminating Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth while introducing new patriotic-themed free access days. This restructuring forms part of President Donald Trump’s broader initiative to modernize park service operations, implementing changes first outlined in a July executive order that prioritizes American citizens over foreign visitors.

    Beginning in 2026, the revised schedule will grant U.S. residents complimentary access on President’s Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day (which coincides with President Trump’s birthday), Independence Day weekend, the 110th Birthday of the National Park Service, Constitution Day, Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday, and Veteran’s Day. The removal of the two civil rights commemorations marks a substantive policy shift from the previous Biden administration’s approach.

    The Interior Department, overseeing NPS operations, has simultaneously introduced a tiered pricing system that substantially increases costs for international visitors. Non-residents will now pay $250 for an annual pass—more than triple the $80 rate for U.S. residents—while individual entry fees at eleven high-traffic parks will reach $100 per person plus standard entrance charges.

    Interior Secretary Doug Burgum defended the changes, stating: ‘President Trump’s leadership always puts American families first. These policies ensure that U.S. taxpayers, who already support the National Park System, continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations.’

    The department’s fiscal year 2026 budget proposal projects that the new surcharges for foreign visitors will generate over $90 million annually. This policy alignment continues the administration’s pattern of deemphasizing diversity-focused initiatives, following Trump’s Day One executive order banning DEI programs in federal agencies that had previously limited celebrations of holidays perceived as DEI-related.

    Although Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth retain their status as federal holidays, their removal from the NHS fee-free calendar represents another chapter in the administration’s cultural policy shifts. The changes take effect in the 2026 calendar year, coinciding with the nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations.

  • National Guardsman ‘slowly healing’ after being shot in Washington DC

    National Guardsman ‘slowly healing’ after being shot in Washington DC

    A West Virginia National Guardsman critically wounded in a November ambush shooting near the White House is demonstrating significant signs of recovery, according to official statements. Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, sustained severe head injuries during the November 26th attack that claimed the life of his colleague, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom.

    West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey relayed optimistic updates from Wolfe’s family, noting the soldier’s head wound is progressively healing and that he’s gradually returning to his normal appearance. Medical professionals anticipate the Air Force staff sergeant will require approximately two to three additional weeks of acute care treatment.

    The shooting incident occurred when Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national and former counterterrorism soldier in a CIA-backed unit, opened fire on National Guard personnel. Law enforcement authorities have charged Lakanwal with first-degree murder and assault with intent to kill.

    Governor Morrisey participated in a Friday evening vigil at Musselman High School in Inwood, West Virginia, where Wolfe was formerly a student. During the gathering, a pastor read aloud a heartfelt message from Jason and Melody Wolfe, the soldier’s parents, who expressed both their enduring faith and gratitude for worldwide support despite acknowledging the lengthy recovery ahead.

    Earlier medical reports indicated Wolfe had responded to nursing staff with a thumbs-up gesture and demonstrated toe movement capacity, suggesting positive neurological responses.

    The shooting has prompted significant policy repercussions, with the Trump administration citing the incident as justification for enhanced immigration enforcement measures. These include the cancellation of citizenship ceremonies for immigrants from 19 countries previously affected by travel restrictions, including Afghanistan.

    Wolfe was among 2,000 National Guard members deployed to the capital in August as part of immigration and crime reduction initiatives targeting Democratic-led urban centers. Following the attack, President Trump called for an additional 500 troops to be dispatched to Washington DC.

  • Guggenheim Abu Dhabi architect Frank Gehry dies at 96

    Guggenheim Abu Dhabi architect Frank Gehry dies at 96

    Frank Gehry, the revolutionary architect whose audacious designs transformed city skylines from Abu Dhabi to Bilbao, passed away Friday at 96. His death was confirmed by chief of staff Meaghan Lloyd, who noted the visionary succumbed to a brief respiratory illness at his Santa Monica residence.

    Gehry’s career spanned seven decades, marked by spectacular structures that challenged architectural conventions. His iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao—hailed by Vanity Fair’s expert panel as the most significant architectural work since 1980—exemplified his genius for creating buildings that appeared both collapsing and magnificently alive. The late Philip Johnson, himself an architectural titan, declared it “the greatest building of our time” and Gehry “the greatest architect we have.”

    Beyond the Bilbao masterpiece, Gehry’s portfolio included the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, Facebook’s California campus, Paris’ Fondation Louis Vuitton, Prague’s Dancing House, and New York’s 8 Spruce Street tower. Each project demonstrated his unparalleled ability to manipulate form, space, and materials into breathtaking artistic statements.

    Born Frank Owen Goldberg in Toronto to Polish Jewish parents on February 28, 1929, Gehry developed an early fascination with architecture through childhood creations built from wood scraps. After studying at the University of Southern California and briefly attending Harvard, he changed his surname at his wife’s suggestion to counter anti-Semitism in the architectural world.

    His 1989 Pritzker Prize recognition cemented his professional standing, but the 1997 Bilbao Guggenheim catapulted him to international stardom. Despite criticism that his designs prioritized form over function—with the Disney Hall labeled “deconstructionist trash” by some—Gehry remained philosophical: “You kind of say, ‘At least they’re looking!’”

    French billionaire Bernard Arnault paid tribute to Gehry’s enduring legacy, noting his “unparalleled gift for shaping forms” would continue inspiring Louis Vuitton and LVMH brands. Beyond architecture, Gehry designed furniture, jewelry, watches, and even a signature vodka bottle and Lady Gaga’s avant-garde headpiece.