Russia-Ukraine peace talks, Trump negotiations...

U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll held critical meetings in Abu Dhabi to advance a peace framework aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The controversial plan, which previously required Ukraine to cede territory and limit its military capacity, has been revised to exclude territorial concessions. The updated proposal, shaped by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has sparked mixed reactions. European allies welcomed a more inclusive process, but Russia rejected the updated text, leaving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy facing a difficult choice between incomplete European support or agreeing to the contentious deal with Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. European leaders, concerned about long-term support for Ukraine, are under pressure to resolve funding issues such as unlocking €140 billion in frozen Russian assets. The situation highlights geopolitical divisions and the precarious nature of global alliances. . The Guardian Financial Times Politico Europe Politico Europe bostonglobe.com

Hours after progress was reported in Geneva peace talks, Russia launched missile and drone attacks on Kyiv, killing at least six civilians and damaging residential buildings and energy infrastructure. This escalation underscores the fragility of the ceasefire negotiations, as Ukraine grapples with continued military aggression despite diplomatic efforts. . The NY Times bostonglobe.com

Gaza’s population, already ravaged by conflict, faces dire conditions as Israeli restrictions hinder aid flows. Over a million residents are left without adequate shelter, food, or medical supplies, increasing risks of disease and starvation as winter approaches. Humanitarian organizations have warned of severe repercussions if immediate action is not taken. . Washington Post (World)

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized to Donald Trump that Taiwan’s integration into China is a non-negotiable part of the post-war international order. This conversation reflects heightened tensions over Taiwan, as China continues asserting its claims amid rising regional instability. . The Guardian

In a landmark case, Kim Nok-wan received a life sentence for leading a massive online blackmail ring that targeted 261 victims. The sentencing demonstrates South Korea’s increased resolve to combat digital and sexual violence, setting a precedent in addressing cybercrime. . Washington Post (World)

The Taliban government in Afghanistan accused Pakistan of conducting airstrikes that killed 10 civilians, including nine children, following a suicide attack in Peshawar. These developments further strain regional stability and highlight the ongoing security challenges in the region. . The Guardian

Global oil prices declined as traders weighed the potential political and economic impact of a Russia-Ukraine peace deal, which could stabilize markets already grappling with oversupply. Analysts suggest that the deal could significantly lower geopolitical risks in energy markets. . Wall Street Journal (Markets)

Donald Trump signed an executive order instructing Marco Rubio and Scott Bessent to evaluate designating chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood in Lebanon, Egypt, and Jordan as terrorist organizations. This measure could introduce severe sanctions and reflects Trump’s hardline stance on Islamist movements. . The Guardian The Hill

The COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil, narrowly avoided failure as delegates finalized a deal targeting fossil fuel giants. While the agreement marks progress, critics argue it falls short of addressing climate change’s systemic challenges. The summit underscores the difficulty of achieving consensus among diverse stakeholders. . The Guardian (Environnment)