The state of Massachusetts has been awarded $106 million in federal grants to upgrade transit systems, including replacing old buses with hybrid or low-emission models. Governor Maura Healey and other officials highlighted the benefits for reducing emissions and improving accessibility. The funding extends to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, Lowell, and Berkshire regional transit authorities. This initiative is part of a larger $2 billion federal investment in sustainable transit solutions across the U.S. While the initiative is widely welcomed, questions remain about the long-term sustainability of such funding amid broader federal budget constraints. bostonglobe.com

Moody’s has upgraded Italy’s credit rating to Baa2 with a stable outlook, citing expectations of declining debt levels. This improvement reflects confidence in Italy's ability to manage its fiscal policies effectively. However, the broader European economic landscape, marked by inflation and energy crises, poses ongoing challenges. While this is a positive signal for Italy, analysts urge caution, noting that political instability could undermine economic reforms crucial to maintaining this trajectory. World Street Journal (International)

President Donald Trump has presented a controversial 28-point peace plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, including territorial concessions by Ukraine and security guarantees from the U.S. and Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces mounting pressure to accept, with a Thanksgiving deadline looming. Critics, including prominent Republicans like Mitch McConnell and Roger Wicker, argue the plan rewards Vladimir Putin and undermines U.S. and European security. Proponents suggest it could end years of bloodshed, but concerns persist about the precedent it might set for international conflicts. The NY Times The Guardian USA Today The Hill

Marjorie Taylor Greene, the Georgia congresswoman known for her alignment with Donald Trump, has announced her resignation, effective January 2026. This decision follows a public fallout with Trump over her support for releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files. Greene’s departure underscores growing fractures within the Republican Party, as she criticized both Trump and party leadership for failing to prioritize "America First" policies. Analysts view this as a potential turning point for the MAGA movement and its internal dynamics. bostonglobe.com The Guardian USA Today Politico

The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily blocked a lower court ruling that found Texas’ congressional redistricting plan likely discriminates on racial grounds. This map, pushed by Trump, could grant Republicans five additional House seats in 2026. The decision highlights ongoing legal battles over gerrymandering and voting rights, with implications for nationwide redistricting efforts. Critics argue that such maps dilute minority voting power, while proponents claim they reflect legitimate political strategy. The NY Times bostonglobe.com HuffPost

The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria faces a significant funding gap, with only $11.3 billion pledged out of the required $18 billion for 2026-2028. Advocates warn this shortfall could reverse decades of progress in combating these diseases. While the U.S. remains the leading donor, other major contributors like France and Japan have yet to commit. Experts stress the urgency of addressing this gap to avoid a resurgence of these deadly diseases. The Guardian

A man in Washington state has died from the rare H5N5 strain of bird flu, marking the first recorded human fatality from this strain. Health officials have emphasized that the risk to the general public remains low, attributing the infection to close contact with infected poultry. This development highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and preparedness for emerging zoonotic diseases, especially as global climate and agricultural practices evolve. The Guardian

Boston University students protested in front of President Melissa Gilliam's residence, demanding protections for students amid recent ICE raids. The controversy began after GOP student leader Zachary Segal claimed credit for a raid that led to the detention of nine workers. Protesters are calling for BU to declare itself a sanctuary campus. This incident raises broader questions about campus activism, immigration policy, and the role of universities in protecting vulnerable communities. bostonglobe.com