November 18, 2024 - Monday

[WORLD] Biden lifts restrictions allowing Ukraine to use U.S. weapons deep inside Russia, altering U.S. policy amid escalating Ukraine-Russia conflict.

President Biden approved the lifting of restrictions enabling Ukraine to utilize U.S.-provided long-range weapons like ATACMS to target inside Russian territory. This significant shift may aid Ukraine in combatting Russian forces and enhance its negotiating stance. The move coincides with a deployment of North Korean troops near Ukraine's border with Russia, as President Zelenskyy aims to end the war diplomatically by next year.

Sources: cbsnews.com

[NATION] US lifts ban on strikes in Russia as Biden authorizes Ukraine to use American missiles. Royal burglary at Windsor Castle reported.

US President Joe Biden has made a significant policy shift by allowing Ukraine to use US long-range missiles to strike targets within Russia before the end of his term, despite initial resistance. The decision came after pleas from Ukraine, concerns over North Korean troops aiding Russia, and pressure from allies like Britain. In other news, a burglary at Windsor Castle involving thieves scaling fences and using a stolen truck to break through a security gate has been reported.

Sources: bbc.com , barrons.com

[BUSINESS] Carrot recall linked to E. coli outbreak, 1 death and 39 infections reported across U.S.

An outbreak of E. coli linked to organic whole and baby carrots sold by Grimmway Farms has resulted in one death and 39 reported cases across 18 states in the U.S., with 15 hospitalizations. The recall affects various brands and sizes of bagged carrots, with specific best-if-used-by dates provided. Symptoms of E. coli infection include stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and nausea. Consumers are advised to check for recalled products in their homes.

Sources: axios.com , pbs.org , democratandchronicle.com , fda.gov

[TECHNOLOGY] Samsung is set to release its own version of AR glasses in Q3 2025, using a Qualcomm SoC and weighing only 50 grams.

A Chinese research firm predicts Samsung will unveil AR glasses in Q3 2025, outfitted with a Qualcomm SoC and weighing a mere 50 grams. The glasses, a collaboration with Google, aim to compete with Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, promising advanced AI features. The release, anticipated during the second Unpacked event of the year, reveals Samsung's foray into AR smart glasses before a rumored XR headset akin to Apple Vision Pro.

Sources: wccftech.com , mk.co.kr , tomsguide.com , 9to5google.com , sammobile.com

[SPORTS] Josh Allen's touchdown run leads Bills to victory, handing Chiefs their first loss of the season.

The Buffalo Bills secured a 30-21 win over the Kansas City Chiefs as Josh Allen's incredible 26-yard touchdown run on fourth down sealed the game, ending the Chiefs' unbeaten run. This victory positioned the Bills at 9-2 and placed them closer to the 9-1 Chiefs in the standings. The star play by Allen and the team's fearless approach showcased their determination and potential as serious contenders this season.

Sources: nypost.com , espn.com , nytimes.com , usatoday.com

[SCIENCE] A 35,000-year-old mummified saber-toothed kitten was discovered frozen in Siberian permafrost, revealing insights into the species' characteristics.

Russian scientists unearthed a well-preserved 37,000-year-old mummified saber-toothed kitten in Siberia's permafrost. The finding, belonging to the species Homotherium latidens, provides valuable insights into Arctic fauna during the Late Pleistocene era. Researchers compared the mummy's physical features to those of a three-week-old lion cub. The discovery, reported in Scientific Reports, unveils significant details about this ancient feline species and its habitat.

Sources: nature.com , npr.org , abcnews.go.com , jpost.com

[HEALTH] First U.S. case of more severe mpox virus strain reported in California, originating from recent travel to Eastern Africa.

A California resident recently returned from Eastern Africa and contracted a more severe strain of the mpox virus, marking the first U.S. case. The individual is isolating at home in San Mateo County, receiving care after visiting Africa. Officials are monitoring potential contacts while stating the risk to the public is low. Tests are ongoing at the CDC for further viral characterization.

Sources: washingtonpost.com , edition.cnn.com , apnews.com , ktvu.com

[ENTERTAINMENT] "Red One," starring Dwayne Johnson, debuts with $34 million domestically, sparking discussions on box office success in the streaming era.

"Red One," a Christmas-themed action comedy featuring Dwayne Johnson, earned $34.1 million domestically in its box office launch, topping the charts but raising concerns due to its hefty $250 million budget. Despite a solid debut for an original film originally meant for streaming, the success metrics in the evolving film industry landscape remain a topic of discussion, especially when comparing similar productions like "Joker: Folie à Deux" and "Killers of the Flower Moon."

Sources: variety.com , apnews.com , hollywoodreporter.com