Tens of thousands evacuate as rains swell rivers in US and Canada

An atmospheric river has led to severe flooding in the Pacific Northwest, affecting areas in both Canada and the United States. Thousands of residents are preparing to evacuate as torrential rain continues to impact the region, raising concerns about safety and infrastructure damage.

More than 400 civilians have been killed in ongoing fighting in the Uvira region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since December 1st, as reported by regional officials. The violence has escalated despite recent diplomatic efforts to broker peace in the area, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation.

Canada achieved a trade surplus for the first time since the onset of the trade war, with exports increasing and imports decreasing in September, according to Statistics Canada.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that the United States has urged Ukraine to withdraw from the Donbas region and establish a 'free economic zone', suggesting that Russian troops may remain without further advances. This development highlights ongoing diplomatic pressures amid the conflict with Russia.

Rwanda has denied any involvement in the recent violence in South Kivu, instead blaming the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi for violating a peace agreement reached in Washington. The Rwandan government has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and adherence to the terms of the accord, as reported by FRANCE 24’s Juliette Montilly.

Maria Corina Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, publicly confirmed that the United States assisted her in escaping Venezuela to attend the award ceremony in Norway. She expressed support for potential U.S. military action against the Maduro regime, emphasizing her commitment to returning to Venezuela despite the risks involved.

A recent study has revealed that northern resident killer whales, also known as orcas, are collaborating with Pacific white-sided dolphins to hunt salmon off the coast of British Columbia. This cooperative hunting strategy marks a significant finding in understanding the interactions between these two marine predators, suggesting that their encounters are not merely coincidental but rather a strategic partnership.

As the United States pressures Ukraine to accept a peace plan favoring Russia, President Zelensky is seeking support from European allies. The UK, France, and Germany are spearheading the 'Coalition of the Willing' to provide military backing and counterbalance U.S. influence, while the EU is advocating for the release of €200 billion in frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine's defense.