A faction of pro-Khalistan Sikhs is set to hold coordinated protests outside Indian embassies in seven countries on Wednesday, condemning the killing of Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi, a Bangladeshi activist. The demonstrations, organized by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), will take place at noon local time in Dhaka, Islamabad, Melbourne, London, Milan, Toronto, Vancouver, and Washington, D.C. SFJ’s general counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun announced the plan in a video message, demanding the closure of Indian consulates.

Pannun accused Indian intelligence agencies of orchestrating Hadi’s killing and alleged that Indian diplomatic missions serve as operational centers for such activities. He also linked the protests to broader claims of Indian interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs, including alleged plots against the government led by Muhammad Yunus. Indian authorities have not responded to the allegations.

The protests underscore ongoing tensions between pro-Khalistan activists and the Indian government, with SFJ continuing to use international platforms to challenge India’s policies. Security around Indian diplomatic missions in the mentioned cities is expected to be tightened.

Google’s 2025 global search trends highlight how billions of users turned to the platform for answers spanning entertainment, technology, and politics. Among the most-searched topics were the assassination of U.S. political activist Charlie Kirk, Netflix’s animated hit *K-pop Demon Hunters*, and the viral collectible toy character Labubu from Pop Mart. These topics dominated global curiosity and reflected the year’s cultural pulse.

Artificial intelligence also emerged as a major search driver, particularly around Google’s own AI model, Gemini. Queries such as “What is AI?” and “How does Gemini work?” surged, showing that public interest in AI extended far beyond experts. Meanwhile, geopolitical issues like the Iran-Israel conflict and the U.S. government shutdown pushed political searches to new highs.

The data underscores how Google remains central to daily digital life, with users relying on it for both breaking news and everyday information such as weather, translations, and social media updates.

A recent analytical essay by a former university researcher argues that the relationship between democracy and media has reached a critical turning point in the digital age. The author contends that modern media infrastructures—social networks, search engines, and data algorithms—are now dominated by a handful of global technology corporations, shifting moral and civic authority toward techno-plutocratic control. This concentration of power, the essay warns, endangers the democratic values of free expression, informed debate, and public consent.

Tracing the historical evolution of media from oral traditions to the digital era, the essay cites thinkers from Aristotle and Mill to Chomsky and Habermas to show how information flow has always defined the strength of democracy. It highlights how corporate ownership, algorithmic manipulation, and misinformation now erode the public sphere, replacing truth with emotional narratives. The author concludes that defending media freedom is no longer just a journalistic duty but a civilizational struggle to preserve human autonomy, ethical reasoning, and the very existence of democracy itself.

Several European countries have expressed concern over new US sanctions imposed on two judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC). The sanctions, announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, target judges Gocha Lordkipanidze and Erdenebalsuren Damdin. European governments argue that such measures undermine the court’s independence and the global fight against impunity.

France called for the immediate withdrawal of the sanctions, condemning all forms of coercion against ICC officials and supporting organizations. Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot warned that the move weakens efforts to uphold judicial freedom. Denmark, Finland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Norway also reaffirmed their support for the ICC as an impartial judicial body.

The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between Washington and European allies over the ICC’s authority. Analysts suggest the sanctions could complicate transatlantic cooperation on international justice and accountability issues, particularly in cases involving alleged war crimes.

A new international study led by researchers at Leiden University in the Netherlands has found that increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide is diminishing the nutritional quality of major food crops. While higher CO₂ levels may boost crop yields, the research shows a decline in essential nutrients such as zinc, iron, and protein, alongside a rise in toxic elements like lead. The findings suggest that foods are becoming more calorie-dense but less nutritious.

The decade-long study examined 43 crops, including rice, wheat, potatoes, and tomatoes, analyzing 32 key nutrients. On average, nutrient levels were found to drop by 3.2%, with zinc in chickpeas projected to fall by as much as 37.5%. Lead researcher Sterre Ter Haar described the results as “alarming,” noting that the changes could have serious health implications.

Experts warn that this nutrient decline may worsen global malnutrition, even as food production increases. The study highlights the need for urgent climate action and agricultural adaptation to preserve food quality as atmospheric CO₂ levels have already reached 425.2 parts per million.

Cricket and football fans are set for a busy weekend of live sports broadcasts, led by the Ashes third Test between Australia and England in Adelaide. The decisive fifth day of the match will air from 5:30 a.m. on Star Sports, while New Zealand face West Indies in the second Test on Sony Sports. Domestic T20 action continues with the Big Bash League clash between Melbourne Renegades and Hobart Hurricanes, and ILT20 fixtures featuring Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, Desert Vipers, and MI Emirates.

Football coverage remains equally intense, with Aston Villa hosting Manchester United in the English Premier League, Villarreal facing Barcelona in La Liga, Heidenheim meeting Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, and Al Nassr taking on Al Najma in the Saudi Pro League. Broadcasters including Star Sports, FanCode, and Bet365 will carry these matches live.

The packed schedule underscores the global appetite for year-end sports, offering fans a mix of international Tests, franchise cricket, and top-tier football across continents.

A new study published in the journal *Mobile DNA* reveals that polar bears are undergoing genetic changes that may help them adapt to global warming. Researchers from the University of East Anglia analyzed blood samples from 17 polar bears in northeast and southeast Greenland and found increased activity of so-called 'jumping genes'—mobile DNA elements that influence other genes’ functions.

The study found that rising temperatures have dramatically boosted the activity of these genes in southeastern Greenland bears, altering genetic pathways linked to metabolism, thermal stress, and food processing. Lead researcher Dr. Alice Godden said the findings suggest a potential genetic blueprint for adaptation to warmer environments, though she cautioned that this does not eliminate extinction risks.

Scientists see the discovery as a sign of evolutionary resilience but stress that reducing carbon emissions remains crucial. Without slowing global warming, genetic adaptation alone may not be enough to secure the species’ survival through the century.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to refrain from making a 'serious mistake' in handling the Venezuela crisis, following Washington’s decision to impose a full blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers. Putin said Moscow maintains constant communication with its ally Caracas and emphasized the need for restraint.

Trump announced the blockade on December 16 via his Truth Social platform, claiming Venezuela uses oil revenues to fund drug trafficking and criminal activities. The move has heightened tensions between Washington and the government of President Nicolás Maduro, though Caracas insists its crude exports remain unaffected. Meanwhile, U.S. military presence in the Caribbean and Pacific regions near Venezuela has reportedly increased, with several deadly strikes reported.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry expressed hope that the White House would avoid a grave error and reiterated Moscow’s firm support for Maduro’s government. Analysts warn that escalating U.S.-Venezuela friction could further destabilize the region and complicate global energy markets.

Global gold prices surged again this week, nearing record highs as investors turned to the precious metal amid a weakening U.S. dollar and falling Treasury yields. In Dubai, 24-carat gold rose to 524.50 dirhams per gram on Thursday, just below the year’s peak of 525.25 dirhams recorded in October. Prices for other purities also climbed, with 22-carat gold at 485.75 dirhams and 18-carat at 399.25 dirhams.

Analysts attribute the rise to concerns over the U.S. Federal Reserve’s independence and fears of political interference, which have heightened uncertainty in financial markets. Hani Abuagla, senior market analyst at XTB MENA, noted that geopolitical tensions across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia are further driving demand for gold as a safe-haven asset.

Experts describe 2025 as a pivotal year for gold, with inflation trends, economic slowdowns, and potential restrictive policies likely to sustain upward pressure on prices. Investors are expected to closely monitor central bank actions and global risk developments in the coming months.

NATO member states have approved the alliance’s 2026 civil and military budgets, allocating €528.2 million (about $623 million) for civilian operations and €2.42 billion (around $3 billion) for military expenditures. The decision was finalized during a meeting of the North Atlantic Council, the organization’s principal political decision-making body.

According to a NATO statement, the 2026 budget aims to strengthen the alliance’s readiness, interoperability, and crisis management capabilities. It will also fund NATO’s command structure, training programs, joint exercises, and capacity-building initiatives for partner nations. Officials emphasized that the budget reflects a fairer distribution of financial responsibilities among member states.

The funding increase comes amid heightened global security concerns and continued efforts to modernize NATO’s defense posture. Analysts note that the budget underscores the alliance’s commitment to collective defense and strategic adaptation as geopolitical tensions persist across Europe and beyond.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has filed a lawsuit against the Nobel Committee, challenging its decision to award the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado. The legal complaint demands that the Nobel Foundation halt the disbursement of the prize money, reportedly exceeding one million dollars. Assange argues that Machado’s public support for former U.S. President Donald Trump’s military stance and sanctions against Venezuela contradicts the fundamental principles of the Peace Prize.

In his submission, Assange cited Alfred Nobel’s will, which stipulates that the Peace Prize should honor individuals who promote fraternity among nations and work toward disarmament and peace conferences. He contends that Machado’s endorsement of coercive measures undermines these ideals. The lawsuit has sparked debate among human rights advocates and political observers about the interpretation of Nobel’s legacy.

The Nobel Foundation has yet to issue an official response. Legal experts note that while challenges to Nobel decisions are rare, this case could test the boundaries of the committee’s discretion and the moral criteria underpinning the award.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that global coal demand, which reached a record high in 2025 at 8.85 billion tonnes, is projected to decline gradually by 2030. The shift is attributed to the rapid expansion of renewable energy, nuclear power, and natural gas-based electricity generation. Despite a 0.5% increase in 2025, the IEA forecasts a steady reduction in coal consumption toward the end of the decade.

IEA Energy Markets and Security Director Keisuke Sadamori noted that the world’s reliance on coal remains strong but is beginning to weaken as clean energy alternatives gain ground. India saw a rare drop in coal use due to increased hydropower output and reduced electricity demand, while U.S. coal consumption rose following a presidential order to support domestic mining. China, the largest coal consumer, maintained stable demand but is expected to see a moderate decline by 2030.

Analysts warn that faster electricity demand growth or slower renewable integration in China could delay the global coal decline, potentially complicating climate targets.

FIFA has announced a record-breaking $50 million prize for the champion of the 2026 World Cup, nearly doubling the reward compared to previous tournaments. The decision, approved at a FIFA Council meeting in Doha, marks a significant increase from the $42 million awarded to the 2022 Qatar winner and $38 million in 2018 Russia.

The total prize pool for the 2026 tournament, to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will reach $655 million—about 50% higher than in Qatar. The runner-up will receive $33 million, while the third and fourth-placed teams will earn $29 million and $27 million respectively. Each of the 48 participating nations will also receive $1.5 million for preparation expenses.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the expanded rewards as a financial milestone for global football, emphasizing that part of the revenue will be reinvested in football development worldwide. The move underscores FIFA’s effort to enhance competitiveness and financial sustainability across the sport.

Cricket fans are set for a busy viewing day on December 18, 2025, as multiple international tournaments air live across major sports networks. The highlight is the third Ashes Test between Australia and England, with the second day’s play starting at 5:30 a.m. on Star Sports. Simultaneously, New Zealand face West Indies in the second Test from 4:00 a.m. on Sony Sports. Later in the day, the Big Bash League features Melbourne Stars against Hobart Hurricanes, followed by ILT20 action between Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Gulf Giants.

Football enthusiasts will also have late-night action as Napoli take on AC Milan in the Supercoppa Italiana, streamed via Bet365 and Fancode. The day’s lineup underscores the global reach of cricket and football, with broadcasters catering to diverse time zones and audiences. Sports analysts note that December’s packed calendar reflects the growing overlap of domestic and international leagues, offering fans continuous live coverage across continents.

FIFA has announced a major revision to its 2026 World Cup ticket pricing following widespread criticism from fans and national football associations. The governing body will now offer a limited number of tickets for each match, including the final, priced at $60 under a new 'Supporter Entry Tier' category. The decision comes after public outrage over previously announced prices that reached as high as $8,680 for the final.

According to the Associated Press, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the organization reversed their earlier stance amid mounting pressure. Participating nations will receive between 400 and 750 of these lower-priced tickets to distribute among their supporters. Earlier, ticket prices for group-stage matches ranged from $180 to $700, sparking global criticism over affordability.

The revised pricing aims to ease tensions with fans and improve accessibility ahead of the North American-hosted tournament. Analysts suggest the move could help restore FIFA’s public image and ensure greater stadium attendance when the World Cup kicks off in 2026.