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| Global leaders pay tribute to former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, praising his role in foreign affairs. However, on social media, Kissinger is widely criticized as a war criminal who caused lasting damage. Kissinger served as Secretary of State under Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, having a significant impact on US foreign policy during the Vietnam War and the establishment of ties with China. While some acknowledge his accomplishments, others condemn his actions, particularly in Cambodia. Despite the mixed reactions, Kissinger’s influence on global affairs is widely recognized. |
China Unlikely to Invade Taiwan due to Internal Challenges, Says Taiwanese President
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| Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen has stated that China is unlikely to consider a major invasion of Taiwan at this time due to its internal challenges. Tsai made these comments in response to questions about the risks of an invasion following the meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Although tensions between the two leaders remain high regarding Taiwan, China is currently focused on domestic economic, financial, and political challenges. However, Beijing is still attempting to interfere in Taiwan’s upcoming presidential election. Tsai emphasized the need for Taiwan to strengthen the resilience of its democracy instead of relying on Beijing’s tactics. China considers Taiwan its territory and opposes any form of independence or external interference. The upcoming presidential election in Taiwan is being closely watched by both China and the United States. |
Fire in Kazakhstan hostel kills 13: ‘Suffocated in basement’, officials say
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| At least 13 people were killed in a fire that broke out in a hostel in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The victims suffocated in the basement of the building, which was converted into a hostel without proper safety measures. The fire was extinguished within an hour, and 59 people were safely evacuated. A criminal investigation has been opened. Safety regulations in Kazakhstan are often lax and lead to deadly incidents. |
Russia’s Putin to hold year-end press conference on December 14: Kremlin
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| Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold a press conference on December 14th to sum up the results of 2023. This will be his first annual briefing since the conflict in Ukraine began. The press conference will be a combination of a direct line and the president’s final press conference, and it will be broadcast on state-run television networks. It is expected that Putin will announce his candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections in March. |
Truce between Israel, Hamas is producing results
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| US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the temporary truce between Israel and Hamas has produced positive results, including the release of hostages and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. Blinken expressed hope that the truce would continue, while condemning a recent attack in Jerusalem. He also revealed plans to discuss Israel’s impending offensive into southern Gaza and the protection of Palestinian civilians. This marks Blinken’s third visit to the region since the outbreak of violence on October 7, 2023. |
