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President Trump escalates pressure on Venezuelas Maduro, seizing largest oil tanker ever by U.S. and deploying military fighter jets over the Gulf of Venezuela. The U.S. has also increased its military presence in the region, targeting suspected drug-smuggling boats and hinting at future land attacks. Despite previous concessions, such as allowing Chevron to continue oil operations, the U.S. is now taking a more aggressive stance against Maduro, who faces narcoterrorism charges in the U.S.

The Federal Reserve has lowered US borrowing costs, but signals a more cautious approach to future rate cuts, potentially displeasing the White House. The central bank is navigating pressures from inflation and a weaker job market. Despite recent weakness in US hiring, three committee members voted against any change. The Fed projects economic growth pickup and jobless rate ease next year, with price growth slowing to 2.4% by the end of 2026. Powell notes the Fed funds rate is now within a neutral range, allowing for observation of economic evolution. However, uncertainty looms with Powells departure and potential nomination of a successor favoring rapid rate reductions, leaving bond markets skittish.

In 2025, five breakthrough entertainers made waves in the industry: Owen Cooper, Tramell Tillman, Chase Sui Wonders, Danny Ramirez, and Arden Cho. Cooper, at 15, won an Emmy for his role in Adolescence, while Tillman became the first Black man to win for supporting actor in a drama series. Cho, a Korean American actress, had a phenomenal year with KPop Demon Hunters becoming Netflixs most-watched movie and its soundtrack topping the Billboard Hot One Hundred. Sui Wonders starred in The Studio and I Know What You Did Last Summer, while Ramirez delivered a memorable performance in The Last of Us. Tillman co-starred in Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning and had a standout second season on Severance. These artists diverse projects and groundbreaking achievements signal exciting futures in the entertainment industry.

Italian cuisine, deeply rooted in culture and tradition, has been granted UNESCOs special cultural heritage status, recognizing its significance beyond popular dishes like pizza. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed pride, emphasizing foods role in Italian life. UNESCO highlighted its social and cultural impact, connecting families and communities. Chef Michelangelo Mammoliti shared his pride, while industry leaders and government officials anticipate tourism boost. Other cultural practices, such as Egyptian Koshary and Icelandic swimming pool culture, also joined UNESCOs intangible cultural heritage list.

Discover the innovative Root Vegetable Schiacciata: a gluten-free, flavorful twist on traditional Italian flatbread. This unique recipe features blended root vegetables, Pecorino Romano cheese, and a savory kick, making it a perfect appetizer or snack. Try this healthy and creative alternative to traditional crostini for a fresh take on Italian flavors.

The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates for the third consecutive time, but hinted at a possible pause, which may not sit well with former President Trump. The rate-setting committee suggests no further cuts in the near future, with only one more expected next year. Dissent within the committee is at its highest in six years, with some members advocating for lower rates to boost hiring and others preferring to maintain current rates due to inflation concerns. Job growth has slowed, and unemployment has risen, presenting a challenge for the Fed as they navigate these differing views. The Fed will reassess at their next meeting in late January, depending on economic reports.

The US Federal Reserve has lowered interest rates for the third time this year, aiming to support a slowing job market. Despite disagreements among policymakers, the central bank cut its key lending rate by a quarter of a percentage point, placing it between three point five zero percent and three point seven five percent. This decision was not unanimous, with three officials voting against the cut. The unemployment rate slightly increased in September, moving from four point three percent to four point four percent. The Fed plans one more rate cut next year, awaiting official labor market and inflation figures for November to provide more clarity. The ongoing debate within the Federal Reserve highlights the complex challenges facing the US economy.

Neighbours, the iconic Australian soap opera, is bidding farewell for the second time in two years, with its final episode airing this week in the UK and Australia. The show, which launched the careers of stars like Margot Robbie and Guy Pearce, has faced cancellation twice, once in 2022 and now in 2025. Despite a brief revival by Amazon MGM Studios, the shows executive producer, Jason Herbison, described the current situation as déjà vu. The shows dedicated fanbase is mourning the loss of this cultural staple, which has been a part of their lives for over forty years and nine thousand episodes.