World News
Pakistan's Democratic Decline: How the Military Regained Control Without Tanks in the Streets
Nov 20, 2025 03:17 pm CST
Pakistan's military has regained central power through subtle means rather than overt force, as evidenced by recent constitutional amendments granting Army Chief Asim Munir expanded authority and legal immunity. While civilian leaders Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Zardari maintain ceremonial roles, they have systematically surrendered hard-won civilian oversight, potentially reversing two decades of democratic progress in Pakistan's governance structure.
New Zealand Solo Traveler's Response to Harassment in Sri Lanka: Addressing Victim-Blaming and Promoting Safe Travel for Women
Nov 20, 2025 02:54 pm CST
A New Zealand solo traveler named Molly shares her experience after facing sexual harassment in Sri Lanka and addresses the unexpected victim-blaming that followed her viral video. Despite the incident, she praises Sri Lankan authorities for their swift response and emphasizes that one negative encounter shouldn't define an entire country or discourage women from traveling independently.
Khashoggi's Widow Expresses Disappointment Over Trump's Meeting With Saudi Crown Prince
Nov 20, 2025 01:30 pm CST
Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, widow of murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has voiced her distress and disappointment following US President Donald Trump's recent meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. She continues to seek justice, requesting the return of her husband's remains, an official apology, and financial compensation while challenging Trump's characterization of her husband.
Trump and NYC Mayor-Elect Mamdani to Hold First Meeting at White House Amid Political Tensions
Nov 20, 2025 11:36 am CST
US President Donald Trump and newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani are set to meet at the White House on November 21, following a campaign marked by sharp criticism and political differences. As the first South Asian and Muslim mayor of America's largest city, Mamdani's historic victory and confrontational stance toward Trump's immigration policies have set the stage for a significant political encounter between the two leaders.
Elon Musk's Reconciliation with Trump: A 'Thank You' Note Following White House Dinner
Nov 20, 2025 11:32 am CST
After a period of tension, Elon Musk and President Donald Trump appear to have mended their relationship during a White House dinner with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. Following Trump's playful reminder that Musk was "lucky" to have his support, the Tesla CEO publicly thanked the President for his contributions to America. This reconciliation comes months after Musk's departure from the Department of Government Efficiency, with reports suggesting a reunion celebration is planned among former DOGE team members.
Trump Signs Epstein Files Transparency Act: What This Means for America's Biggest Sex Scandal Investigation
Nov 20, 2025 10:26 am CST
President Trump has signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, requiring the Department of Justice to release all documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. This bipartisan legislation passed with overwhelming support in Congress and prohibits withholding information due to reputational concerns. The release could reveal connections between Epstein and powerful figures across political lines, potentially including Trump himself who was a longtime associate of the wealthy financier.
US Peace Plan Proposes Ukrainian Land Cession Amid Deadly Russian Strike on Ternopil
Nov 20, 2025 10:06 am CST
A new US peace proposal suggests Ukraine cede territory and significantly reduce its military forces, coinciding with a devastating Russian missile attack on Ternopil that killed 26 civilians including children. The controversial plan appears to mirror Russia's demands while Ukrainian officials continue seeking meaningful international engagement to end the nearly four-year conflict as winter approaches and Russian forces maintain slow advances on the battlefield.
US Judge Resumes Contempt Investigation Against Trump Officials Over Venezuelan Deportation Case
Nov 20, 2025 10:04 am CST
A US federal judge has revived contempt proceedings against Trump administration officials to determine if they willfully violated a court order by deporting Venezuelan men to El Salvador despite judicial intervention. Judge James Boasberg will require sworn testimony from officials involved in the March deportation flights that allegedly defied his explicit order, highlighting an ongoing legal battle over presidential authority and immigration enforcement.
Turkey and Australia Reach Compromise Deal for COP31 Climate Summit Hosting Arrangements
Nov 20, 2025 08:46 am CST
Turkey is set to host the COP31 UN climate summit while Australia will lead the intergovernmental negotiations under a developing compromise agreement. Both nations had submitted competing bids in 2022 for hosting the Conference of the Parties, the world's leading climate action forum, with neither willing to withdraw. The arrangement would include a pre-COP event in the Pacific region, though negotiations at COP30 in Brazil have not yet officially concluded.
Saudi Arabia Lifts Travel Ban on US Citizen Detained Over Critical Social Media Posts
Nov 20, 2025 08:08 am CST
Saudi Arabia has lifted a travel ban on Saad Ibrahim Almadi, a US citizen who was previously imprisoned for critical tweets about the kingdom. Almadi, detained in 2021 for posts mentioning corruption and Jamal Khashoggi's murder, was initially sentenced to 16 years but released last year while remaining under travel restrictions. His freedom comes as President Trump welcomes Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the United States.