Ukraine peace talks, GOP concerns, economic shifts...

US and Ukrainian officials reported progress on a contentious 28-point peace plan during negotiations in Geneva, with adjustments made after initial criticism of the plan for favoring Russian interests. European allies have supported Ukraine with a counter-proposal that includes territorial discussions starting from the current front line. Despite President Trump’s expressed frustration with Ukraine’s leadership, negotiators described the talks as constructive and ongoing. Trump's imposed deadline of November 27 underscores the urgency of these discussions, though the plan remains controversial for potentially compromising Ukraine's sovereignty. . France24 Politico Europe France24 France24

Mitch McConnell, former Senate Republican Leader, admonished President Trump for pursuing a peace plan that could be seen as appeasing Russia, emphasizing that such actions may embolden aggressors rather than bringing lasting peace. McConnell also pointed to perceived weaknesses in Biden’s foreign policy as a contributing factor to the current conflict but warned that concessions to Russia would undermine the West’s position in the region. . The Hill

Senator Rand Paul criticized President Trump’s recent comments labeling Democratic lawmakers as “traitors,” calling the language reckless and divisive. Paul’s remarks highlight growing concerns among conservatives about the potential political fallout of Trump’s polarizing rhetoric ahead of the 2026 elections, as the Republican Party seeks to consolidate its position amidst internal challenges. . The Hill

Álvaro García Ortiz, Spain’s Attorney General, resigned after the Supreme Court convicted him of leaking confidential information in a tax probe. While Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed regret over the conviction, opposition groups celebrated the ruling as a victory for judicial accountability. This incident has further polarized Spain’s political landscape, with accusations of judicial weaponization from Sánchez’s allies. . Politico Europe

Republican lawmakers are increasingly alarmed by signs of a potential electoral disaster in the 2026 midterms, following disappointing off-year elections in states like Virginia and New Jersey. Concerns center on the GOP’s ability to maintain control of the House and limit losses in the Senate, as internal divisions and Trump’s polarizing leadership continue to weigh heavily on the party. . The Hill

European natural gas prices have dropped below €30 per megawatt hour, their lowest level since May 2024. The decrease is attributed to adequate winter supplies and optimism surrounding Ukraine-Russia peace talks. This development provides relief to European economies grappling with energy costs, though the stability of such prices remains tied to geopolitical developments. . Wall Street Journal (Markets)

Financial markets are facing volatility due to rising concerns over AI advancements, ongoing crypto turmoil, and a divided stance within the Federal Reserve. The uncertainty has led to mixed investor sentiment, with major indices like the S&P 500 showing fluctuations. This instability reflects broader challenges in adapting to technological and regulatory shifts. . bostonglobe.com

Russian drone attacks on Kharkiv killed at least four civilians and injured 17, targeting homes and infrastructure. These strikes have been condemned as potential war crimes, coinciding with ongoing peace negotiations in Geneva. The attacks underline the continued human cost of the conflict and the urgency for a resolution that safeguards Ukrainian sovereignty. . France24

An Israeli airstrike in Beirut targeted senior Hezbollah commander Ali Tabtabai, killing five people and injuring dozens. The attack, which Israel claims was necessary for security, has escalated tensions in the region and drawn condemnation from Lebanon and Hezbollah as a violation of ceasefire agreements. . France24

Fifty students kidnapped from a Catholic school in Nigeria managed to escape, though over 250 children and staff remain in captivity. The incident highlights the persistent threat of armed groups in the region and the challenges facing Nigerian authorities in ensuring the safety of schools and children. . France24