World News
Trump Administration Challenges California's Ban on Masked Federal Agents in Landmark Legal Battle
Nov 18, 2025 12:10 pm CST
The Trump administration has filed a federal lawsuit against California over new laws prohibiting federal agents from wearing masks and requiring visible identification during operations. Federal officials argue these regulations jeopardize officer safety amid increasing threats, while California officials maintain the laws promote transparency and prevent criminal impersonation of law enforcement. The case raises significant constitutional questions about state regulation of federal activities.
Sheikh Hasina's Death Sentence: Former Bangladesh PM Aide Claims "Staged Drama" in Muhammad Yunus-Led Government Tribunal
Nov 18, 2025 11:51 am CST
The Awami League condemns the death sentence against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as a "staged drama" in a "kangaroo court." Her close aide Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury claims the verdict was pre-written, denying Hasina proper legal representation, and warns that Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus's interim government is pushing Bangladesh toward civil war while maintaining alleged ties with terrorist organizations.
Trump Launches Expedited 'FIFA Pass' Visa Program for 2026 World Cup Attendees
Nov 18, 2025 11:38 am CST
President Donald Trump has unveiled a special visa fast-track system called the "FIFA Pass" for 2026 World Cup ticket holders, promising expedited appointments within 6-8 weeks. While not guaranteeing entry, the program aims to facilitate travel for an expected 5-10 million international football fans, though standard security vetting will still apply.
Cambridge Dictionary Names 'Parasocial' as Word of the Year 2025: Understanding Our Virtual Connections
Nov 18, 2025 10:15 am CST
Cambridge Dictionary has named 'parasocial' as its Word of the Year 2025, highlighting the growing phenomenon of one-sided relationships people form with celebrities, influencers, and AI. This trend reflects how modern technology and social media are reshaping human connections, with new terms like "skibidi," "delulu," and "tradwife" also entering the lexicon as internet culture continues to transform language.
Trump Celebrates UN Security Council's Endorsement of His Gaza Peace Plan
Nov 18, 2025 10:13 am CST
US President Donald Trump hails the UN Security Council's approval of his Gaza peace initiative, claiming it represents a historic diplomatic achievement that will establish a "Board of Peace" under his leadership and promote global stability.
Chile's Presidential Runoff: Far-Right Jose Antonio Kast Gains Momentum Against Leftist Jeannette Jara
Nov 18, 2025 10:08 am CST
Former presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast is now favored to win Chile's upcoming runoff election against leftist Jeannette Jara. Kast's anti-immigration stance and tough-on-crime policies have gained traction amid rising security concerns, marking a significant shift from his 2021 defeat to Gabriel Boric. With support expected from other right-wing candidates and a focus on border security and economic deregulation, Kast represents Chile's potential rightward turn in Latin American politics.
Venezuelan Doctor Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for WhatsApp Criticism of Maduro Government
Nov 18, 2025 08:47 am CST
A 65-year-old Venezuelan doctor, Marggie Orozco, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for criticizing President Maduro's government in a WhatsApp message. Arrested during post-election turmoil in August 2024, she faces charges of treason, incitement to hatred, and conspiracy. Human rights groups report she has suffered two heart attacks while detained, highlighting Venezuela's ongoing crackdown on political dissent with nearly 900 political prisoners currently held in the country.
Trump Confirms Sale of Advanced F-35 Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia Ahead of Crown Prince's Visit
Nov 18, 2025 08:11 am CST
President Donald Trump has announced the United States will sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, despite concerns about technology transfer risks to China. The announcement comes as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman makes his first visit to Washington in seven years, with expectations of major bilateral agreements including AI investments and nuclear cooperation. The deal faces scrutiny regarding Israel's military edge and Saudi Arabia's human rights record, while potentially influencing Middle East peace efforts including Saudi normalization with Israel.
US and Saudi Arabia to Sign Historic Civil Nuclear Cooperation Framework During Crown Prince's White House Visit
Nov 18, 2025 08:07 am CST
President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are scheduled to sign a framework agreement for civil nuclear cooperation during their upcoming White House meeting. This diplomatic development marks a significant step in US-Saudi relations and nuclear energy collaboration between the two nations.
US Imposes Visa Restrictions on Nicaraguan Travel Facilitators Amid Illegal Immigration Concerns
Nov 18, 2025 07:53 am CST
The US State Department has implemented visa restrictions on Nicaraguan individuals who facilitate illegal immigration, targeting transportation companies, travel agencies, and tour operators. The measures include revoking existing visas and preventing entry to the United States, as the US government addresses what it describes as Nicaragua's "permissive-by-design migration policies" that destabilize the region. This action follows earlier restrictions imposed on over 250 Nicaraguan officials for human rights violations.