My Three Weeks Navigating Ice in the Arctic Ocean

China's official factory gauge showed a slight increase in November, indicating stronger production and demand, although it has remained in contraction for the eighth consecutive month. This suggests a modest improvement in manufacturing activity despite ongoing challenges in the sector.

Russia's military has increasingly utilized drones to target Ukrainian supply lines, marking a significant shift in the conflict dynamics where Ukraine previously held an advantage in drone warfare. This development is seen as more impactful than Russia's gradual territorial gains.

President Trump announced plans to pardon former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, who is currently serving a 45-year prison sentence in the United States for drug trafficking. This decision comes ahead of the upcoming elections in Honduras, raising questions about its implications for the political landscape.

Two oil tankers linked to Russia were rocked by mystery blasts off the coast of Turkey, highlighting the ongoing challenges Moscow faces in circumventing Western sanctions on its oil trade. These vessels are part of a so-called shadow fleet that Russia has utilized to continue its oil exports despite international restrictions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated that his ambitions extend beyond merely conquering eastern Ukraine, as he engages with a U.S.-backed peace plan that he claims could serve as a foundation for resolving the ongoing conflict. He emphasized that Ukraine must surrender territory for any agreement to be feasible, reflecting a hardline stance in negotiations.

A massive fire engulfed high-rise apartment buildings in Hong Kong, spreading rapidly without triggering alarms, leaving many residents unaware of the disaster. The incident has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 36 confirmed deaths and hundreds reported missing, marking one of the deadliest fires in recent years.

Israeli forces shot and killed two Palestinian men in the West Bank during a military raid, shortly after the men appeared to surrender with their hands raised. This incident has been captured on video, prompting Israeli authorities to review the conduct of their security forces.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's cabinet has approved a draft supplementary budget of 18.303 trillion yen (approximately $117.10 billion) for the fiscal year ending March 2026, which may raise concerns about Japan's fiscal health. This move comes amid ongoing economic challenges and pressures on public finances.