Donald J. Trump has officially rolled out the “Trump Gold Card” programme, allowing foreigners to obtain U.S. permanent residency — and eventual citizenship — by paying US $1 million. Under the scheme, individuals pay $1 million plus a $15,000 processing fee; corporations can secure visas for foreign employees by paying $2 million per employee. The programme replaces the older investor-visa route previously known as EB-5 visa programme, and deviates from the job-creation requirement under EB-5. The administration frames the Gold Card as a “more powerful” green card — aimed at attracting global talent, foreign investment, and boosting U.S. revenue. Critics warn that it favours the wealthy and could undermine traditional immigration values. (PC: Reuters)

The United States has proposed a new rule that may require foreign tourists to share their social media history from the past five years. The rule would apply to visitors from about 40 countries who travel to the US without a visa using the ESTA system. Officials say the move is to improve national security. The plan also asks for old phone numbers, email addresses, and details of family members. Digital rights groups warn it could harm privacy. Travel experts say the rule may slow down approvals and could reduce the number of people visiting the US. (PC: BBC)

Sophie Kinsella, bestselling author of the Shopaholic series, died peacefully Tuesday morning at age 55 after battling glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer diagnosed in 2022. Her family announced she spent her final days surrounded by "family, music, warmth, Christmas and joy." Kinsella's novels sold over 45 million copies in 60+ countries, translated into 40+ languages. Her first two Shopaholic books were adapted into the 2009 film starring Isla Fisher. She revealed her diagnosis publicly in April 2024, explaining she delayed sharing to protect her five children's privacy. Her most recent autobiographical work, What Does it Feel Like?, was published October 2024. She leaves behind husband Henry Wickham and five children.(PC: The New York Times)

Japan experienced its third consecutive day of seismic activity with a magnitude 6.5 earthquake striking Wednesday, primarily affecting eastern Aomori and Hokkaido prefectures at 30 kilometers depth. No tsunami threat was issued. This follows Monday's devastating 7.6 magnitude quake that injured 51 people, triggered 70-centimeter tsunami waves, and damaged buildings and roads. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a rare "megaquake advisory," warning of elevated chances for a magnitude-eight-plus quake within the next week. The JMA noted concerning parallels with 2011's magnitude 9.0 disaster, which was preceded by 7.3 tremors two days earlier. Coastal residents were advised to maintain emergency preparedness and evacuate quickly if necessary.(PC: The New York Times & ABC7)

Sophie Kinsella, bestselling UK author of the Shopaholic series, has died at the age of 55. Her family said she passed away peacefully after battling glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer diagnosed in 2022. Her family said, “We are heartbroken… she died peacefully, with her final days filled with her true loves.” Kinsella, born Madeleine Sophie Wickham, sold over 50 million books worldwide and created the beloved character Becky Bloomwood. She once said writing was her way of “processing life through narrative.” Her family added, “She took nothing for granted and will be missed so much our hearts are breaking.” She leaves behind her husband, Henry, and their five children, who said they cannot imagine life without her radiance. (PC: Getty Images)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is finishing a 20-point peace plan and will present it to the United States “in the near future.” He said the plan aims to set clear terms for ending the war with Russia. Zelenskyy added that Ukraine and the US will hold more talks today on postwar rebuilding and economic support. He said the discussions are part of joint work with President Trump’s team and European partners. Zelenskyy also noted that a virtual meeting of the “coalition of the willing” will follow. He said Ukraine is working to ensure long-term security and prevent future aggression. (PC: Reuters)

The US plans to make tourists from about 40 visa-waiver countries share their social media history from the past five years. A notice from the Department of Homeland Security says social media will become a mandatory part of visa screening. Travellers may also need to give old phone numbers, email addresses, and family details. The rule will not apply to Indians under the visa-waiver system, but similar checks already affect many Indian visa applicants. The move is part of the Trump administration’s push for tighter digital screening. Officials say the goal is to improve security and prevent visa misuse. 

Italy has become the first country ever to receive legacy status for its entire national cuisine — not just a dish or region, but the full spectrum of Italian cooking — from UNESCO. The decision, announced at a UNESCO assembly in New Delhi, celebrates Italian food — from pasta and pizza to tiramisu and regional dishes — as more than just meals, but as a living cultural tradition that binds families and communities. The bid, initiated in 2023 and championed by the government, emphasised that Italian cuisine is a cultural fabric weaving together social rituals, regional diversity, respect for ingredients and inter‑generational knowledge. Officials say the recognition strengthens Italy’s cultural identity globally and may provide an economic boost by promoting tourism and safeguarding its gastronomic heritage. (PC: Reuters)

Four young men in Herat, Afghanistan were detained after being seen wearing outfits inspired by the British series Peaky Blinders — trench coats, flat caps, and vintage-style suits — which had made them local internet sensations. The country’s “Morality Police,” under the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, accused them of “promoting foreign culture” contrary to Afghan and Islamic values. While initial reports said the men were sent to a rehabilitation program, the ministry later clarified that they were “summoned, advised and released.” One detainee, reportedly with a large online following, apologized — saying he had “unknowingly spread things against Sharia” and promised to stop.

Cross-border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia entered a third day on December 10 2025 after a ceasefire collapsed, forcing more than 500,000 civilians to flee their homes on both sides. The renewed clashes — including artillery barrages and air raids — have killed at least 13 people so far. Thai authorities report over 400,000 people sheltered across seven provinces; Cambodia said about 101,229 were evacuated in five provinces. Despite pressure for peace, both nations blame each other for rekindling the violence, with no immediate sign of compromise. (PC: Al Jazeera)