Instagram to start closing Australian teen accounts ahead of social media ban

NSW Liberal insiders indicate that support is gathering around Kellie Sloane, the member for Vaucluse, amid discussions of a potential leadership spill. Meanwhile, Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy reaffirmed Australia's commitment to hosting the UN climate summit in Adelaide next year, emphasizing the importance of Pacific voices in climate action negotiations.

The movements of the Russian spy ship Yantar have raised concerns among Britain's defense chiefs, who view the actions as provocative. The ship's activities are seen as a potential threat to national security, particularly in light of recent incursions into the UK's exclusive economic zone.

Forecasters have issued an amber warning for snow as a freezing cold snap grips the UK. Temperatures are expected to fall below zero overnight, with additional snow and ice predicted in various regions on Thursday. Authorities are advising caution due to the potential for hazardous conditions.

US military officials are currently in Ukraine to engage in discussions aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia. This visit coincides with reports that the US and Russia have developed a 28-point peace plan, which allegedly includes significant concessions from Ukraine.

Turkey will host the Cop31 climate conference after Australia withdrew its bid to hold the event in Adelaide. This decision comes despite Australia's extensive efforts over three years to secure the conference. The event is set to take place in Antalya, Turkey, over a fortnight.

A Russian missile strike on the city of Ternopil, Ukraine, resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including children, as reported by Ukraine's air force. The attack destroyed two apartment blocks, marking one of the deadliest assaults in the ongoing conflict.

Laura Anne Jones has been suspended from the Welsh Parliament for two weeks after making offensive comments in a WhatsApp group. The remarks, which included a racial slur, were made during a discussion about the Chinese government's use of TikTok for espionage. Jones has since apologized for her behavior.

Meta has announced it will block access to Instagram, Facebook, and Threads for users under 16 in Australia. This decision aligns with new regulations aimed at protecting minors online.