News

4 Dec 25

Top News Headlines for December 4, 2025

Here's a roundup of the major global, U.S., and regional stories making waves today, drawn from reliable sources. I've focused on the most prominent developments across politics, international conflicts, health, economy, and more.

World News

U.S.-Brokered Peace Deal Signed Between DR Congo and Rwanda: President Trump is set to host leaders from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda in Washington to finalize a long-awaited agreement aimed at ending years of conflict in eastern Congo, where Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have displaced millions. However, ground realities remain tense, with ongoing fighting raising doubts about implementation.
Russia's Putin Vows Full Control of Ukraine's Donbas Region: In a defiant statement, President Putin declared intent to seize the entire Donbas area through military or other means, amid stalled peace talks following a Moscow meeting with U.S. officials. Ukraine insists on "real peace, not appeasement," while Europe discusses using frozen Russian assets to fund Kyiv's defense.
Russian Missile Strike Hits Dnipro, Ukraine: At least four people were killed and 40 injured in an Iskander missile attack on the city of Dnipro, escalating the war's toll as Ukrainian authorities warn of a deepening demographic crisis from emigration and low birthrates.
China Deploys Military Ships in Regional Power Display: Beijing has massed warships across the Asia-Pacific in a show of maritime strength, heightening tensions with neighbors amid U.S. naval activities in the region.
Gaza Ceasefire Violation and Heritage Recovery Efforts: Israeli forces killed seven Palestinians in Gaza today, breaching the October truce, while recovery work begins on war-damaged cultural sites, likened to "first aid for manuscripts."

U.S. News

Senate Moves to Block Trump on Venezuela Strikes: A bipartisan war powers resolution aims to prevent unilateral U.S. military action against Venezuela, following controversial boat strikes condemned as "murder" by human rights groups. Admiral Frank "Mitch" Bradley is briefing lawmakers today.
New York Times Sues Pentagon Over Press Policy: The NYT accuses Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of First Amendment violations for a policy limiting media access to national security info, including his use of Signal app for Yemen airstrike discussions.
ICE Raids Intensify in New Orleans and Twin Cities: Immigration agents are deploying to arrest thousands, including a Chinese father and his 6-year-old son separated in New York. Trump's targeting of Somalis in Minnesota with remarks fuels backlash ahead of enforcement.
FBI Arrests Jan. 6 Pipe Bomb Suspect: A man accused of planting bombs near the Capitol on the eve of the 2021 riot was taken into custody, marking a key breakthrough in the investigation.
Trump Pardons Rep. Henry Cuellar: The Texas Democrat responded to the pardon amid ongoing scrutiny of his ties to foreign interests.

Business & Economy

India Slashes Russian Oil Imports by 31%: Driven by a high base effect and reduced overall demand, India's October imports from Russia dropped sharply, signaling shifts in global energy flows.
UK Household Energy Bills to Rise: Bills will increase to fund a £28 billion upgrade to the energy network, amid warnings of flu straining the NHS.
Australia's New Tech Regulations Spark Debate: A landmark law resets Big Tech's role in news and content, positioning the country as a global regulatory testbed—expected to influence other governments.
Fed Eyes Rate Cut, But Mortgage Impact Limited: Policymakers are poised for another cut next week, though experts say it's already baked into current rates under 6% for some options.

Health & Science

Record Flu Surge in England: Hospitalizations hit 1,700 weekly—50% above last year—with the NHS calling it "unprecedented." A new report holds Putin "morally responsible" for the 2018 Novichok poisoning.
Ukraine's Maternity Wards Face Birthrate Collapse: Rural hospitals like Hoshcha report declining births due to the war, exacerbating a national population crisis.
FDA Recalls Shredded Cheese: Products sold at H-E-B and Walmart are pulled over contamination risks.