US and Russia ‘actively discussing’ settlement of Ukraine conflict – Moscow

Japan and Switzerland's economies have contracted, primarily due to the impact of US tariffs on exports. The European Commission has raised its growth forecast for the eurozone, citing better-than-expected economic performance in the first nine months of the year. This growth was driven by a surge in exports and strong investment in equipment and intangible assets, particularly in Ireland. The continued growth in the third quarter indicates resilience in the European economy despite challenges.

French and Ukrainian leaders are set to meet at the Élysée Palace to discuss air defense assistance and joint drone production. Ukraine plans to deploy over 4.5 million drones this year for offensive and defensive operations. Additionally, they will visit the Mont Valérien headquarters, where France and the UK are preparing a multinational force involving 34 countries and Ukraine for potential deployment after a ceasefire. This marks President Zelensky's ninth visit to France.

Experts cited by CNN have highlighted the significant challenges the United States would encounter in a potential regime change operation in Venezuela. The discussion centers around the implications of ousting President Nicolás Maduro, suggesting that such an action could entangle the US in prolonged commitments and conflicts in the region.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting Paris for the ninth time since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. His agenda includes signing agreements for new air-defense systems, warplanes, and missiles, aimed at bolstering Ukraine's long-term military efforts. The visit underscores the ongoing commitment of France to support Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.

The US plans to designate the Venezuelan Cartel de los Soles, allegedly led by President Nicolas Maduro, as a terrorist organization. This designation is part of the US government's ongoing efforts to address what it perceives as threats posed by foreign entities linked to terrorism. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela, particularly regarding allegations of drug trafficking and corruption within the Venezuelan government.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to sign agreements in Paris for new air-defense systems, warplanes, and missiles to bolster Kyiv's long-term military efforts. This visit comes amid escalating Russian drone and missile attacks, particularly in the Zaporizhzhia region, where Moscow claims to have made territorial gains. Zelensky's meeting with President Emmanuel Macron is crucial as Ukraine seeks to enhance its defense capabilities against ongoing aggression.

US President Donald Trump has expressed his support for the full release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, marking a significant shift in his stance. This decision comes amid a bipartisan effort to disclose the files, which has sparked tensions within Trump's Republican base. The release of these documents could have implications for ongoing discussions surrounding Epstein's controversial legacy and the political ramifications for those associated with him.

Senior figures within the Republican Party, who previously called for the full disclosure of information regarding Jeffrey Epstein and his connections, are now attempting to block the publication of these records. This shift in stance comes after years of promoting conspiracy theories that linked Epstein to Democratic elites and Hollywood figures. The evolving narrative raises questions about the motivations behind the GOP's current position on the Epstein files.