A Frank Assessment of Israel's Goals in Gaza From the Former Defense Minister

US President Donald Trump warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of sanctions and tariffs unless a deal to end the Ukraine war is made immediately, praising Russia’s WWII contributions but emphasizing the need for peace. Ukrainian President Zelensky revealed Russia demanded his resignation, offering pro-Russian Viktor Medvedchuk as his replacement, with demands including recognizing Russian authorities in Donbas, limiting Ukraine’s army, and adopting Russian as an official language. Zelensky described this as an ultimatum, not negotiation,...

Police in Plymouth are searching for a suspect after a serious assault in the West Hoe area, where a person was found seriously injured and taken to Derriford Hospital. The victim and assailant are believed to know each other, with detectives appealing for information and warning the public to stay away from the area while investigations continue. Devon and Cornwall Police have a large presence in the area and are conducting a search for the...

South Korea's fourth-quarter GDP fell short of estimates, growing at a six-quarter low of 1.2% year on year due to weakness in consumption and the construction sector. The economy also missed expectations on a quarter-on-quarter basis, expanding by just 0.1%. The Bank of Korea warned of downside risks to economic growth, with a subdued outlook for 2025 amidst ongoing political uncertainties and a sluggish construction sector. Full Article

The Marriage Equality Act in Thailand allows LGBTQ+ couples to legally wed, granting them the same rights as heterosexual couples. Thailand becomes the first country in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, following Taiwan and Nepal. The law, which amends the Civil and Commercial Code, is expected to provide LGBTQ+ couples with full legal, financial, and medical rights, with around 300 couples set to register at a gala celebration in...

The Miami Heat have suspended All-Star Jimmy Butler for two games after he missed a team flight for a road trip, marking the second in-house suspension this season amid trade rumors. Despite ongoing turmoil, Butler continues to play and hinted that the "whole truth will come out" regarding his situation. Social media speculation arose when he was seen wearing Phoenix Suns-themed sneakers, coinciding with the Suns acquiring future first-round picks, potentially signaling his desired trade...

Ichiro Suzuki, a former Seattle Mariners player, was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame following his outstanding career. Despite numerous achievements, Suzuki values emotional moments, such as his final game in Japan, over records and accolades. Full Article