United Nations calls for end to US embargo on Cuba, again

Hurricane Melissa has tragically claimed the lives of at least two dozen people as it sweeps through Cuba and Haiti. Now classified as a Category 2 hurricane, it poses a significant threat with dangerous winds, flooding, and storm surges expected to impact the Bahamas and Bermuda soon. This situation is critical as communities brace for the aftermath, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Former EPA head Gina McCarthy is rallying support for climate action as the U.S. faces challenges from the Trump administration. With crucial UN climate talks approaching in Brazil, she emphasizes that cities and states are stepping up to combat climate change, showing resilience against federal opposition. This is significant because local initiatives can lead to substantial reductions in pollution, highlighting the importance of grassroots efforts in the global fight against climate change.

Former President Trump has expressed a desire to resume nuclear testing, a practice the U.S. has not engaged in for over three decades. Experts warn that restarting such tests could undermine national security and provoke international tensions, making America less safe. This discussion is crucial as it raises concerns about the implications for global stability and arms control.

The recent meeting between President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping has been hailed as a 'great success' by Trump, highlighting significant developments in US-China trade relations. Key outcomes include the reduction of US tariffs on Chinese goods and an agreement from China to ease restrictions on rare earths exports. These changes are crucial as they could enhance trade flows and foster better economic ties between the two nations, impacting global markets and industries reliant on these resources.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet with China's Xi Jinping at the APEC leaders summit in South Korea this Friday. This meeting comes amid ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the U.S., highlighting the shifting dynamics in international relations and the importance of collaboration among global leaders.

Recent polling indicates that Ukraine is becoming a key issue for Republican voters, with many showing increased support for President Zelensky. This shift is significant as it highlights a growing bipartisan interest in Ukraine amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. Understanding this trend is crucial as it could influence future U.S. foreign policy and aid decisions.

Ukraine's army chief has reported that Russian forces are ramping up their assaults on Pokrovsk, a key defensive position in the Donbas region. The Ukrainian military is focused on bolstering defenses while prioritizing the safety of its soldiers. This situation is critical as Pokrovsk, along with Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, represents the last major line of defense against a potential Russian takeover of the area, making it a pivotal point in the ongoing conflict.

The recent US-China trade deal has raised concerns about its effectiveness, with experts like Peter Gries from the Manchester China Institute stating that 'there are no winners' in this agreement. While both nations have committed to a year-long trade truce, the lack of tangible benefits for either side highlights the ongoing tensions between the world's two largest economies. This situation matters because it could impact global markets and economic stability, making it crucial for both countries to find a more constructive path forward.

A letting agent has issued an apology for failing to secure a necessary rental licence for a property managed by them. The oversight occurred when the property manager promised to apply for the licence but ultimately did not follow through. This situation highlights the importance of compliance in the rental market, as such oversights can lead to legal issues and affect tenants' rights.

President Trump's decision to cap refugee admissions at a record low of 7,500 for the upcoming year marks a significant reduction from the previous limit of 125,000. This policy shift has raised concerns about the implications for vulnerable populations seeking asylum, particularly as the majority of the new admissions will be white South Africans. This move is seen as controversial and may affect the U.S.'s global standing on humanitarian issues.

The Senate has passed a bill to nullify former President Trump's extensive global tariffs affecting over 100 nations, with a vote of 51-47. This bipartisan effort follows earlier resolutions aimed at repealing tariffs on Canada and Brazil. The move is significant as it reflects a shift in U.S. trade policy and could enhance international relations, potentially benefiting American consumers and businesses by lowering prices on imported goods.

Rachel Reeves has acknowledged that she should have verified whether a rental license was obtained, following an apology from the letting agent involved. This situation has sparked discussions in UK politics, particularly with No 10 releasing redacted emails related to the matter. ITV's political editor, Robert Peston, argues that it is unwise for the Conservatives to demand Reeves' resignation over this issue. This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny of political figures and the importance of transparency in their dealings.

The Trump administration has set the lowest cap on refugee admissions to the U.S. since the program began in 1980, focusing primarily on resettling Afrikaners from South Africa. This decision is significant as it reflects a shift in U.S. immigration policy, potentially limiting opportunities for many vulnerable populations seeking asylum and safety in America.

A man has been sentenced to prison after breaking into the studio of renowned artist Damien Hirst while wearing a GPS tag. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of art theft and security, especially concerning high-profile artists. The case serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that even the most famous figures face in protecting their creative spaces.