As the US ramps up military pressure on Venezuela, the Maduro government is tightening its grip at home. Families of political prisoners describe disappearances, torture and a justice system that forces detainees to accept state-appointed lawyers. Also, Hong Kong officials have announced that more than 150 people are now confirmed dead after last week's massive fire that gutted several high-rise apartment buildings in the Tai Po district. And, a discussion about the status of peace talks for Ukraine. Plus, a radiation-eating fungus found at the site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

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The World take a look at a variety of environment stories in this holiday special. A new report finds that renewable energy sources made up more of the global electricity mix than coal for the first half of 2025. Also, scientists in Greenland study glacial meltwater to better understand what it could do to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. And, a look at how climate change is exacerbating Canada's fire season. Plus, an activist who's working to protect trees in Mexico City.

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The World brings you a collection of transportation stories from across the globe. Air carriers around the world expand premium seats and luxury cabins for big spenders. Also, a group of YouTube streamers turn the nerve-racking logistics of world travel into friendly competition. And, a look at Bolivia's cable car system — the longest in the world. Plus, pets flying with their owners in style.

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The Trump administration's airstrikes in the Caribbean are having a chilling effect on small-scale fishermen, who fear being attacked by mistake. Also, Taiwan's president asks lawmakers to approve a new $40 billion spending package in response to recent moves by China. And, Italy’s legislature passes a law that will make femicide an offense punishable by life imprisonment. Plus, the Olympic flame is lit; a look into the tradition of harnessing the sun’s energy.

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Taiwan is closely following Washington’s diplomacy with Beijing and Moscow, as it hopes for US support to stay independent from China. Also, Indian authorities have launched a sweeping crackdown in the Kashmir Valley following a bomb blast outside Delhi’s historic Red Fort last week. And, Britain prepares an overhaul of its asylum system as governments across Europe tighten their rules amid rising political pressure. Plus, a 14-year-old girl wins the gold medal in this year’s surfing competition in Iran.

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Fires in drought-stricken Iran are threatening ancient forests that are home to endangered species. Also, Ireland considers making a program permanent that would provide a stable income for artists. And, we bring you updates on the outcome of the UN climate summit in Belem, Brazil. Plus, a look at the origins of apples in Central Asia.

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This year's COP30 summit in Brazil has highlighted food, forests and land as key topics. One sector that spreads across all of these is agriculture, and it’s responsible for about one-third of global carbon emissions. Also, China is rapidly expanding its nuclear forces just as the only major nuclear agreement, between the US and Russia, is set to expire next year. And, a conversation with former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin who was the youngest elected world leader when she was in office. Plus, a new initiative that guides Asian American teens and young adults help each other cope with stress.

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A look at a 28-point framework to end the war in Ukraine, secretly drafted by the US and Russia in Miami last month without Ukrainian officials at the table. Also, representatives of more than a dozen Caribbean nations are in the UK this week to promote reparations for slavery and the mistreatment of Indigenous people in former colonies. And, the US plans to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a move that has the Kingdom’s neighbors in the region worried. Plus, paintings breaking records at Sotheby's art auctions.

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The Trump administration is moving to label Venezuela’s “Cartel of the Suns” as a foreign terrorist organization, but some experts say the label doesn’t fit. Also, a new study examines the extent of damage being done by excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods. And, an update on conditions on the ground for Palestinians in Gaza. Plus, rapper Eminem sues a beach accessory brand for choosing a name too close to his own alter ego, Slim Shady.

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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman met with US President Donald Trump today, visiting the White House for the first time in seven years. Also, Peru tries to reduce the toxic use of mercury in small-scale gold mining. And, a research project in the UK hopes to fast track the hunt for new antibiotics by using artificial intelligence. Plus, could cross country runners, who don’t race on snow or ice, compete in the Winter Olympics?

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