At least six people were killed as Russia launched hundreds of missiles and drones on Ukraine overnight, hitting homes and energy sites. Two died and 12 were injured in Dnipro, while three were killed in Zaporizhzhia. More than 25 cities, including Kyiv, were struck, causing major power cuts. Ukraine’s air force said it shot down over 400 drones and several missiles. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said repair work was underway to restore power. President Volodymyr Zelensky urged stronger Western sanctions on Russian energy, saying Moscow’s attacks aim to break Ukraine’s spirit and economy before winter. (PC: BBC)

The Taliban has warned Pakistan of war after peace talks in Istanbul failed again. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan accused Pakistan of blocking progress and acting irresponsibly despite mediation by Turkey and Qatar. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said Pakistan was shifting blame for its own security problems. Afghan minister Noorullah Noori warned Islamabad “not to test the patience of Afghans.” The Taliban said it would defend Afghanistan’s sovereignty and people against any attack. Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif confirmed the talks ended without results and no fourth round is planned. Tensions remain high along the Afghan-Pakistan border. (PC: NDTV)

The Trump administration has ordered US embassies worldwide to enforce stricter visa screening under the “public charge” rule. This rule allows officials to deny visas or green cards to applicants who might depend on US government aid. The order expands checks on factors such as health, finances, and English skills. Even past use of public benefits can lead to visa rejection. Reports say medical conditions like diabetes or obesity may also affect approvals. The rule revives Trump’s earlier immigration policies, rolled back during Joe Biden’s term, and marks a major shift in global US visa screening. (PC: HT)

Gaza’s water supply has turned poisonous after Israel’s relentless bombing destroyed sewage treatment plants, pipelines, and water networks. Contaminated wells and makeshift sources now expose thousands to deadly diseases as families resort to unsafe drinking water. Environmental experts warn of irreversible ecological damage, while humanitarian groups struggle to deliver aid amid ongoing blockades. The United Nations has called the situation a public health emergency, highlighting how the collapse of Gaza’s infrastructure has transformed the enclave’s water into a source of sickness and death. (PC: AFP)

Peace negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul collapsed after renewed border violence left four Afghan civilians dead and several injured. Pakistan accused the Taliban government of sheltering militants responsible for cross-border attacks, while Kabul rejected the claims and called Islamabad’s stance unreasonable. Despite Qatar’s mediation and a fragile cease-fire still in place, both sides failed to reach common ground. The breakdown deepens regional tensions and raises fears of further military escalation along the volatile frontier between the two neighbouring nations. (PC: AP)

The Trump administration’s updated immigration rule empowers U.S. consular officers to deny visas to applicants with chronic health issues like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, or mental illness, labeling them potential “public charges.” This policy broadens medical evaluations beyond infectious diseases, requiring applicants to prove they can financially support their healthcare needs for life. Critics argue the rule unfairly discriminates against individuals with manageable conditions, giving consular officers excessive discretion and raising ethical concerns about the U.S. government’s treatment of disabled and chronically ill immigrants. (PC: X)

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that no U.S. government official will attend the 2025 G20 Summit in Johannesburg, calling the event a “total disgrace.” He criticized South Africa for alleged human rights abuses against white farmers and what he described as illegal land seizures, claiming the country’s policies are unjust and incompatible with U.S. interests. Trump also stated that the United States will instead host the next G20 summit in 2026 in Miami. The move highlights his ongoing influence in U.S. foreign policy debates and underscores tensions with South Africa ahead of the global economic forum. (PC: AP)

The US Department of Labor has opened 175 investigations into possible misuse of the H-1B visa program. The move is part of Project Firewall, launched in September to ensure companies hire qualified American workers first. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said she is personally certifying these probes to stop visa abuse and protect US jobs. The department also released a social media ad accusing firms of replacing Americans with foreign workers, naming India as the largest beneficiary. The Trump administration recently introduced a $100,000 one-time fee for H-1B applications as part of its crackdown on immigration. (PC: HT)

More than 2,000 flights across the United States were delayed or cancelled on Friday after the government shutdown hit air traffic control operations. The Federal Aviation Administration said staff shortages forced airlines to reduce flight numbers at 40 major airports. Many air traffic controllers are working without pay or calling in sick during the shutdown. The FAA plans to cut flights by up to 10% next week if the crisis continues, which could affect as many as 4,000 flights per day. Airlines like United and Delta have promised full refunds to passengers whose flights were cancelled. (PC: BBC)

To fight rising winter pollution, the Delhi government will begin staggered office timings from November 15. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said government offices will work from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, while municipal offices will run from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm till February 15, 2026. The move aims to reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions that worsen Delhi’s air during winter. Officials said the plan will help spread vehicle movement through the day and improve air quality. This comes as Delhi’s Air Quality Index crossed 400 in several areas, touching the “severe” category this week. (PC: NDTV)