The U.S. warned China it will be held responsible if Russia makes gains in Ukraine, after Beijing renewed pledges of cooperation during a visit by Russia’s foreign minister. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell said maintaining peace in Europe is the U.S.’s “most important mission historically.” He cautioned that Russian territorial gains could unacceptably alter Europe’s balance of power, saying Chinese backing for Russia is “antithetical” to U.S. interests. Campbell said the U.S. had warned China about intelligence indicating Russia’s planned invasion of Ukraine.(photo/x)
Category: Archive
US to sell $138 million in urgent military upgrades to Ukraine
The United States has agreed to sell $138 million worth of military equipment to Ukraine, including urgent upgrades to its HAWK missile defense systems. This comes as a larger $60 billion aid package remains stalled in the U.S. Congress. Ukraine’s air defenses have been vastly improved with U.S. equipment, but the delay in approving the larger aid package has forced Ukrainian soldiers to ration ammunition. The sale aims to enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend against Russian aerial attacks, as Moscow has intensified strikes on the country’s energy infrastructure.(photo/afp)
Hamas leader Haniyeh’s three sons killed in Gaza strike
Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh has announced the deaths of three of his sons and four grandchildren in an Israeli strike in Gaza. The attack, which has not been commented on by Israel, came amid ongoing violence in the region that has lasted for over six months. Haniyeh condemned the targeting of his family members, stating that such actions would not break the determination of the Palestinian people. The escalating conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 33,000 people in Gaza, according to local authorities.(photo/twitter)
How ketogenic diet improves severe mental illness
A pilot study by Stanford Medicine researchers suggests that a ketogenic diet can help address both mental health issues and metabolic side effects in patients taking antipsychotic medications. The study found that after four months on a ketogenic diet, participants with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder experienced significant improvements in their mental health, as well as reductions in weight, insulin resistance, and other metabolic markers. The findings indicate that nutritional interventions could be an effective complementary approach to treating severe mental illnesses and their associated metabolic complications.(photo/pexels)
Children with healthier eating habits have better cognitive development
A study from the University of Eastern Finland has found that a healthier diet, lower red meat consumption, more reading, and participation in organized sports can improve children’s reasoning skills in the first two years of school. The research showed that children with better overall diet quality, higher intake of low-fat dairy, and less screen time performed better on reasoning tests. While a lifestyle intervention did not impact cognitive development, the findings suggest that promoting healthy eating habits and encouraging reading and organized physical activity can support the development of reasoning abilities in children.(photo/pexels)
Aydha Mehnaz from Bangladesh on Forbes 30 Under 30 list
Aydha Mehnaz, a Bangladeshi fashion professional, has earned a prestigious spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. As the VIP and Media Relations Lead at Mugler, Mehnaz has driven the brand’s media impact value from $58 million to $200 million through high-profile collaborations. Despite facing challenges as a woman from a developing country, Mehnaz’s expertise and strategic initiatives have made her a trailblazer. She has also launched Avari, a fashion and lifestyle consultancy in Bangladesh. Mehnaz’s recognition is a source of pride for her country and a testament to her remarkable achievements.
Finland world’s happiest country for seventh year
Finland has retained its position as the world’s happiest country for the seventh consecutive year, according to the UN’s World Happiness Report. Nordic countries continue to dominate the top 10, while the United States and Germany fell out of the top 20. The report highlights growing happiness inequality, with younger generations in North America, Australia, and New Zealand reporting declining happiness levels compared to their older peers. Factors like strong social welfare, trust in institutions, and work-life balance contribute to Finland’s continued top ranking.(photo/afp)
Covid lowered life expectancy by 1.6 years worldwide
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a sharp decline in global life expectancy, falling by an average of 1.6 years during the first two years. The study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation found that life expectancy declined in 84% of the 204 countries analyzed. However, child mortality has continued to decrease, and overall life expectancy has risen by 23 years since 1950. The pandemic is estimated to have caused 15.9 million excess deaths, highlighting its devastating impact. Experts warn of the social, economic, and political challenges posed by shifting population dynamics globally.(photo/afp)
Mugler’s runway at the Paris Fashion Week
Bangladeshi fashion enthusiast Dewan Muhammad Sajid Afzal and his wife were invited to attend Mugler’s Fall/Winter 2024-25 fashion show during Paris Fashion Week. The event, held at the iconic Lycée Carnot School, was a remarkable experience, featuring celebrity attendees and a captivating theatrical showcase of Mugler’s signature bold and feminine style. The couple’s presence at this prestigious event reflects the growing influence and recognition of Bangladeshi fashion on the global stage. The author expressed a deep sense of fulfillment and a renewed commitment to elevating the standards of Bangladesh’s fashion industry.