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Spain Floods Claim 51 Lives as Valencia Endures Catastrophic Rainfall

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At least 51 people have lost their lives after torrential rainfall unleashed flash floods in southeastern Spain, particularly devastating areas around Valencia. In Chiva, near Valencia, more than a year’s worth of rain fell in just eight hours, with local officials calling the death toll a tragic unknown as rescue operations continue. Social media videos show the powerful floodwaters destroying bridges, sweeping cars through streets, and forcing residents to cling to trees to escape the torrents.

As emergency efforts ramp up, more than 1,000 troops are deployed to assist in locating the missing, with drones aiding the search in severely affected areas like Letur. Spain’s King Felipe VI expressed deep sorrow, sending condolences to the victims’ families. Civil protection services faced scrutiny over a delayed emergency warning, issued two hours after floods began, which many believe hindered residents’ ability to seek safety. Regional officials have urged people to avoid all travel due to widespread road closures and blocked access for rescue teams.

The Spanish weather service, AEMET, reported that Chiva experienced 491mm of rainfall in eight hours, sparking a red alert in Valencia and heightened alerts in Andalusia. Travel is paralyzed as Valencia’s train services are suspended and flights redirected. Schools, events, and parks remain closed as officials brace for further rain. Scientists warn that a warming atmosphere, intensified by climate change, may make such extreme weather events more frequent and destructive in the future.

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UK Sanctions Russian Agencies Linked to Disinformation Network

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The UK government has imposed sanctions on six Russian agencies and individuals accused of being part of a disinformation network known as the Doppelganger group. This network is alleged to have spread false rumors about the Princess of Wales, particularly during her health-related absence from public life earlier this year. The Foreign Office described the group as operating a “vast malign online network” aimed at sowing discord among countries supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, warning that their actions threaten to undermine democratic processes.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the group’s tactics, stating, “Putin is so desperate to undermine European support for Ukraine he is now resorting to clumsy, ineffective efforts to try and stoke unrest.” The sanctions target multiple entities, including the Social Design Agency and Structura National Technologies, alongside individuals such as Ilya Andreevich Gambashidze. The UK Foreign Office emphasized that the disinformation campaign exploits social media, creating fake news sites to mislead users and promote divisive narratives.

The sanctions received support from the US State Department, which highlighted the need to combat Kremlin-produced disinformation. Experts from Cardiff University noted that the Doppelganger group uses numerous disposable social media accounts to flood information channels, amplifying narratives that seem less overtly political. This approach has been particularly effective in generating public discourse around sensitive topics, allowing the group to disseminate anti-Ukrainian messages while attacking key British institutions like the Royal Family.

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British Activist Tommy Robinson Admits Contempt of Court After Breaching Libel Injunction

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British anti-Muslim activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, admitted to contempt of court on Monday after breaching a court injunction following a 2021 libel suit. The injunction, issued after Robinson was sued by Syrian refugee Jamal Hijazi for falsely claiming Hijazi had assaulted a girl, barred Robinson from repeating defamatory statements about Hijazi. Robinson’s admission came during an appearance at London’s Woolwich Crown Court, where Britain’s Solicitor General pursued legal action against him for comments made in online interviews and a documentary titled Silenced.

Robinson’s court appearance on contempt charges coincided with a separate legal issue, as he was charged on Friday under terrorism laws for allegedly failing to provide his mobile phone PIN code when leaving Britain in July. The anti-Muslim activist, who has prior contempt charges and criminal convictions, was previously jailed in 2019 for similar contempt breaches. This latest infraction marks his third contempt of court finding.

Judge Jeremy Johnson is expected to issue a sentence later on Monday. The maximum penalty for contempt of court is two years in prison and an unlimited fine. Robinson has also been accused by some media and political figures of inciting public unrest, with allegations that his statements contributed to recent rioting in Britain following the tragic murder of three young girls in Southport.

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Dean Forbes Tops Powerlist 2025 as Most Influential Black Briton

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Dean Forbes, a self-made multimillionaire entrepreneur who faced homelessness twice in his teens, has topped the Powerlist 2025, which celebrates influential Black Britons. Rising from poverty in south-east London, Forbes’ career journey began humbly in a call center after his dreams of professional football ended at the Crystal Palace Academy. Today, he is the chief executive of Forterro, a Swedish software firm with an impressive annual revenue of €300 million.

Forbes attributes his resilience to the encouragement of his single mother, who instilled positivity and determination in him and his brothers despite their struggles. Early in his career, Forbes worked for Motorola, where he quickly rose through the ranks before taking equity stakes in software firms Primavera, KDS, and CoreHR, achieving substantial wealth each time. Now at Forterro, Forbes uses his success to inspire others, setting up the Forbes Family Group with his wife Danielle to support underserved communities by opening doors for young people who lack traditional opportunities.

Forbes’ achievement displaces British Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful from the top spot on the Powerlist, which has highlighted Black role models since 2007. He is joined by other leaders, including Bernard Mensah, president of international at Bank of America, and Afua Kyei, chief financial officer at the Bank of England, with the top 10 list featuring trailblazers across finance, fashion, law, and technology.

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French Woman Gisèle Pelicot Testifies in Open Court Against Ex-Husband’s Decade-Long Rape Ordeal

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Gisèle Pelicot, a 72-year-old French woman whose ex-husband is on trial for drugging and raping her while inviting other men to do the same, took the stand in court in Avignon on Wednesday. Pelicot, who requested an open trial, shared her devastating testimony, expressing her hope that her story will encourage other women to come forward. “It’s not for us to have shame—it’s for them,” she said, addressing victims of sexual violence.

Her ex-husband, Dominique, admitted to secretly drugging her over a decade, allowing dozens of men to rape her while she was unconscious, actions he filmed. Many of the defendants deny the charges, claiming they did not realize she was unconscious. Pelicot described her disbelief at the betrayal, saying she never suspected her “caring” husband could commit such acts.

Pelicot has become a symbol of resilience and determination in France, with feminist marches held in her support across the country. She stated that her decision to waive anonymity was motivated by her desire to prevent such atrocities from happening again. The trial, which began in September, is expected to conclude in December.

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UK Government Allocates £2.26bn in Support for Ukraine from Seized Russian Assets

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The UK government has announced an additional £2.26 billion ($2.93 billion) to support Ukraine, funded by profits from seized Russian assets held in Europe. This funding is part of a broader £38 billion ($50 billion) initiative pledged by G7 nations to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict. Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the importance of this contribution, stating it would enable Ukraine to enhance its frontline military equipment and serve as a means of countering the effects of Russian aggression.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that the funds will be provided as a loan, with the UK recouping costs through the earnings and interest from the seized assets, all within the appropriate legal framework. While the UK will not be confiscating sovereign Russian assets outright, this approach aims to provide timely financial support to Ukraine. The payments are expected to be disbursed in tranches, allowing Ukraine to allocate funds according to its immediate needs, including potential contributions to its reconstruction efforts.

The UK’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense comes on the heels of over £12 billion already provided in military aid, with assurances of continued support in the future. Both Healey and Reeves, in a joint appearance, reiterated the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine, which will endure “for as long as it takes.” This announcement precedes the government’s upcoming budget, where discussions on public service spending, including defense, are anticipated.

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Switzerland Joins German-Led Defense Initiative to Strengthen Europe’s Air Security

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Switzerland has announced its decision to join a German-led initiative designed to enhance Europe’s defense capabilities against air strikes. This strategic move marks a significant shift for the traditionally neutral country, which has been reevaluating its defense policies in the wake of heightened security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Switzerland’s participation signals its commitment to strengthening European security and collaborating with neighboring nations on defense matters.

The initiative aims to bolster air defense systems across Europe, focusing on developing advanced technologies and improving operational coordination among member countries. By participating, Switzerland will contribute its expertise and resources to a collective defense framework, addressing the growing threats posed by air attacks. This collaboration underscores a broader trend of European nations reassessing their defense strategies in response to geopolitical tensions.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve, Switzerland’s involvement in this defense initiative highlights the necessity for nations to work together to safeguard their airspace. The move is expected to resonate positively among European allies, who view enhanced air defense as critical in maintaining regional stability and security in an increasingly uncertain world.

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Italian Migrant Deal Faces Setback as Courts Rule Against Albania Transfers

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Italy’s five-year deal to send irregular migrants rescued at sea to processing camps in Albania has hit a major roadblock, as a special immigration court in Rome ruled that 12 migrants sent to a camp near Gjader must be returned to Italy. The court determined that the individuals originated from countries deemed unsafe for deportation. The ruling comes just days after the first group of migrants arrived in Albania, putting pressure on Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, which intends to appeal the decision.

The controversial €800 million deal, aimed at repatriating around 3,000 migrants a month, has been under scrutiny. Opposition leaders, including Elly Schlein of the Democratic Party, criticized the expense, suggesting that the funds could have been better spent on domestic issues like healthcare. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has defended the plan, insisting it will eventually become part of European law, despite the legal challenges.

The agreement is closely watched across Europe, with leaders from the UK and EU showing interest in similar solutions. However, the ruling could complicate ongoing efforts to speed up migrant returns in the region. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently stated that new proposals were in development, further indicating that the issue remains at the forefront of European politics.

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Baby Dies After Migrant Boat Capsizes in Channel Near French Coast

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A baby has tragically died after a migrant boat capsized off the coast of northern France while attempting to cross the Channel toward Britain. The overloaded boat, carrying 65 people, started sinking near Wissant on Thursday night. Rescuers found several passengers in the water, and although most were saved, an unconscious baby was pulled from the sea but later declared dead.

French coastguards responded to multiple SOS calls from small boats in the area. A total of 132 people were rescued across various vessels that night, with the passengers from the capsized boat taken to Boulogne-sur-Mer. The incident adds to the mounting death toll, making 2024 the deadliest year for Channel crossings with at least 53 migrants having died so far.

Humanitarian organizations and critics have called for urgent reforms to immigration policies, stressing that these tragedies are preventable. They argue that without safe and legal routes for asylum seekers, more lives will be lost in desperate attempts to reach the UK.

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EU Considers Offshore Migrant Processing as Debate on Deportations Intensifies

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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has suggested that the EU could learn from Italy’s controversial policy of processing migrants offshore in Albania. As leaders of the 27 member states gathered for an EU summit focusing on migration, von der Leyen highlighted the need to address low deportation rates of irregular migrants, currently at just 20%. Italy has already begun transferring migrants to Albania, with 16 men sent to a processing center in Shengjin, although some vulnerable individuals were returned to Italy. The Italian government has spent €650 million on two centers where asylum claims will be examined under Italian law, excluding children and vulnerable people.

This move has sparked debate within the EU, with some member states exploring similar solutions. The Dutch government is considering sending rejected asylum seekers to Uganda, while several other nations, including Poland, France, and Germany, have taken steps to tighten immigration controls and enforcement in response to rising far-right support. Recent violent crimes involving failed asylum seekers in Germany and France have intensified calls for tougher deportation policies, prompting some member states to reintroduce border checks or propose further restrictions.

Italy’s agreement with Albania has faced sharp criticism from NGOs and opposition politicians, who argue it is inhumane and ineffective. However, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni defended the plan as a bold new approach aligned with the “European spirit.” The success of this scheme is being closely watched by other EU nations as they search for ways to balance public pressure on migration with humanitarian concerns.

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