Author: Rachel Maddow

Japan is tackling overtourism in Tokyo and Kyoto by encouraging travellers to explore lesser-known regions. The Japan National Tourism Organisation and All Nippon Airways now offer free domestic flights to UK and European visitors. The campaign runs from 24 November to 31 January 2026 and aims to redirect visitors while easing pressure on popular destinations. The initiative forms part of the “Stopover & Add-on Free Fare” programme, allowing eligible economy passengers to book up to two free domestic flights on an international booking made by 31 January. Travellers can schedule the flights anytime after that date. ANA says the programme…

The UN climate summit failed to deliver a plan to phase out fossil fuels, leaving the EU increasingly isolated as global ambition falters. COP30 in Belém ended with a final text that offered no roadmap, drawing criticism that called it an empty deal and a moral failure. The United States withdrew from climate negotiations, creating a political and financial gap, while President Donald Trump dismissed climate change as a con job. Countries dependent on fossil-fuel revenue, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, rejected any target or timeline for phasing out fossil fuels. One day before the summit concluded, the EU…

Astronomers traced Theia, the vanished planet that helped form the Moon, using ancient lunar and terrestrial rocks.They concluded Theia probably formed much closer to the Sun than previously thought.For decades, scientists theorized that Theia collided with early Earth about 4.5 billion years ago.Debris from that impact coalesced into the Moon and spread Theia’s material across both worlds.The giant impact theory has guided research since Apollo missions returned the first lunar samples.Theia’s disappearance erased direct chemical evidence, leaving its origin and composition uncertain.Jake Foster of the Royal Observatory Greenwich praised the study for pinpointing Theia’s original location.He emphasized that scientists can…

A new community art project in Honolulu is inviting residents to help paint a mural in a government building’s parking garage. The project aims to turn an ordinary space into a vibrant, shared artwork. Organizers say the project is open to everyone. People of all ages and skill levels can participate. The goal is to make public art accessible and encourage community involvement. The mural will feature colorful designs that reflect local culture and nature. Artist Solomon Enos is leading the project, guiding participants as they contribute to the large-scale painting. Residents can join multiple sessions. Materials and instructions are…

Trump met Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani on Friday and praised him despite past harsh words.He previously called Mamdani a “100% Communist Lunatic” and a “total nut job.”Mamdani had labeled Trump’s administration “authoritarian,” yet they spoke warmly and cordially.Both men emphasized shared goals to improve New York rather than past political conflicts.Trump said Mamdani could surprise conservative voters despite his democratic socialist platform.Mamdani stood beside him in the Oval Office as Trump offered compliments.The meeting gave Mamdani national exposure and allowed Trump to discuss affordability issues. Focus on New York’s Affordability Mamdani requested the meeting to explore strategies for making New York…

The European Commission launches infringement proceedings against Italy for applying the golden power rule in banking deals.Officials criticize the rule for giving the Italian government authority to block or condition corporate transactions.The Commission warns that the regulation risks unjustified interventions, violating free movement of capital and freedom of establishment.The EU adds that the Italian law conflicts with the European Central Bank’s Single Supervisory Mechanism powers.Italy has two months to respond and correct the issues highlighted by Brussels. Italy Plans Regulatory Response Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti says Italy will address the Commission’s objections through the proper institutions.He pledges a regulatory proposal…

A power outage left tens of thousands of homes without electricity in Paris on Thursday morning.The blackout also struck neighbouring Hauts-de-Seine, affecting approximately 55,000 households, according to French media.Traffic lights and streetlights went dark, and several metro and suburban train lines stopped operating.The outage caused widespread disruption, forcing commuters and residents to navigate safety challenges across the city. Technical Glitch Causes Disruption Enedis reported the blackout lasted around five minutes, though a few thousand homes still remain without power.The operator identified a technical incident at the RTE substation in Issy-les-Moulineaux as the source of the outage.RTE manages France’s high-voltage electricity…

Anti-capitalists, climate advocates, women’s rights campaigners, and anti-migrant groups plan protests highlighting South Africa’s poverty and inequality.Police and army paraded helicopters, K-9 units, and motorcycle officers on Wednesday to show strength before the G20 summit.Authorities deployed 3,500 extra police officers and placed the army on standby under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure.Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili told reporters that officials expect protests in Johannesburg and other major cities.She said the government will allow protests but enforce legal boundaries.Police marked designated areas near the summit venue, beside South Africa’s largest soccer stadium, for protesters to assemble.Airports Company South Africa set…

Monday Night RAW delivered another thrilling moment as a new WWE Intercontinental Champion was crowned. The victory injected fresh energy into the red brand and set the stage for high-stakes storylines heading into upcoming pay-per-views. The match showcased top-tier athleticism, intense rivalries, and dramatic in-ring storytelling. Fans witnessed a competitive showdown, with both contenders giving their all in pursuit of the prestigious title. The Intercontinental Championship, known for elevating stars, once again proved its importance in WWE’s hierarchy. The new champion celebrated in the ring, receiving cheers from fans and recognition from fellow wrestlers. The victory highlights the performer’s skill,…

Dukovany Expansion Aims to Transform Energy Supply Czechia plans to generate up to 60 percent of its electricity from nuclear power by 2050. Engineers build two new reactors at Dukovany, complementing the four 512-MW units built in the 1980s. Mobile drilling rigs extract samples 140 meters underground to verify geological stability for the $19 billion project. Officials say the expansion could double national nuclear output and strengthen Czechia’s position as one of Europe’s most nuclear-reliant nations. South Korea’s KHNP won the contract over France’s EDF. Each new reactor will produce more than 1,000 megawatts and begin operation in the second…