DR Congo crisis: Hunger worsens amid fighting and shortages

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November 7, 2025 Humanitarian aid

The humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to rapidly worsen due to ongoing fighting, which has forced tens of thousands of people to flee their homes, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warns.

Access of humanitarian organizations to areas, captured at the beginning of the year The M23 armed group remains extremely challenging, with a significant shortfall in aid funding further exacerbating the situation.

According to WFP Director in the DRC, Cynthia Jones, aid can be delivered more effectively if air access is restored.

"Two airports in M23-controlled areas have been effectively closed since the end of January… We urgently call for the creation of a humanitarian air corridor," she said, speaking via video link from Kinshasa at a briefing in Geneva on Friday.

Emergency situation

According to a new analysis within the framework Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC)Nearly 25 million people in the DR Congo face a nutritional crisis (level 3 on the IPC scale). Particularly alarming is the fact that nearly three million people are in a state of emergency (phase 4) – almost double the number last year.

"This means families are missing meals, losing their livelihoods, selling their animals," Jones explained.

In some areas of eastern DR Congo, people are already dying of hunger, according to the WFP.

Meanwhile, as the UN agency representative noted, fighting between M23 and government forces continues, triggering new waves of displacement. There are currently approximately 5.2 million internally displaced people in the eastern part of the country, 1.6 million of whom have fled their homes this year. This is one of the largest crises of its kind in the world.

Financial crisis

At the same time, the WFP is experiencing acute shortage of fundsThe agency was forced to reduce the amount of assistance it provided: at the beginning of the year, 1 million people received it, and now only 600,000 people.

Without additional funding, only a small fraction of those in need will receive the support they need, Jones noted, calling for $350 million over the next six months. Otherwise, she said, the WFP will be forced to halve its assistance. 300,000 people will receive it—just 10 percent of those who need it.

Without an urgent influx of funds, all emergency food aid programs in eastern DRC could collapse by March 2026.

The financial crisis also affects the organization itself.

"We're closing offices, cutting costs, reducing staff, and trying to maintain a minimum operating capacity in an extremely challenging environment," Jones said.

Meanwhile, humanitarian aid is vital for displaced people in the provinces of North and South Kivu, Ituri, and Tanganyika. People lack access to money and other means of subsistence.

"Women, children, and men—all suffer from relentless violence perpetrated by non-state armed groups. People are fleeing conflict, exhausted, and desperate for peace," the WFP representative emphasized.

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UN Secretary-General: Energy transition must be 'just, rapid and final'

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November 7, 2025 Climate and environment

The UN Secretary-General has called for urgent action to accelerate the global transition to clean energy. He said the world is on a dangerous trajectory leading to warming of the atmosphere by more than two degrees Celsius.

During a round table on energy transition held as part of the climate summit in Belém with the participation of Brazilian President Lula da Silva, Antonio Guterres stressed that the revolution in the field of renewable energy sources has already begun, but changes must happen faster.

According to data cited by the Secretary-General, 90 percent of new energy capacity in 2024 will come from renewable sources. Investments in clean energy have reached two trillion dollars—$800 billion more than the amount invested in fossil fuel extraction.

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What's important to know about climate change: A WMO expert discusses alarming trends, the spread of misinformation, and the need for joint action.

Renewable energy sources have become the cheapest way to generate electricity in almost every country, noted António Guterres. Every dollar invested in green energy creates three times more jobs than that invested in fossil fuels.

“Despite the progress we have made, we still we are moving towards dangerous warming"Even if all new national commitments are fully met, the world will still continue to move toward warming well above two degrees Celsius," the UN chief emphasized. "This means more floods, more heat, more suffering – everywhere."

Citing the latest scientific data, António Guterres warned that exceeding the 1.5 degree Celsius level is inevitable as early as the early 2030s. To return to safe levels by the end of the century, global emissions must be cut almost in half by 2030, reach net zero by 2050, and then go negative.

Proposed measures

The UN Secretary-General called for transparency and coherence in international action, legislative reform, and the elimination of fossil fuel subsidies, which he said "distort" the market and hinder progress.

“We need to put people and justice at the centre of the transition: supporting workers and communities whose lives still depend on coal, oil and gas; providing training, protection and new opportunities – especially for young people and women,” said António Guterres.

The UN chief noted that infrastructure must keep pace with the growth of renewable energy sources and called for urgent investments in power grids, energy storage, and improved efficiency. All new electricity demand, including that of data centers and AI, must be met by clean energy sources, Guterres stated. Technology, he said, must be "part of the solution, not a new burden."

The problem of financing

The Secretary-General focused particularly on financing in his speech. He noted that Africa currently receives only two percent of global clean energy investment, highlighting the need to increase international cooperation, reduce the cost of capital, and attract private investment.

"Let's act quickly and in a coordinated manner!" urged António Guterres. "We must make justice the engine of acceleration and build an economy that is clean, inclusive, and sustainable… The era of fossil fuels is ending. Demand for clean energy is growing. Let's make this transition just, fast, and final!"

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Syria: UN Human Rights Office warns of new abductions and disappearances

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November 7, 2025 Human rights

Eleven months after the fall of the former Syrian regime, alarming reports of abductions and enforced disappearances continue to emerge from the country, Tamin Al-Khitan, a representative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), said at a briefing in Geneva on Friday.

At the same time, according to the UN, more than 100 thousand people missing during Assad's reign.

"Since the fall Assad regime "Some families have been reunited with their loved ones, but many continue to live in uncertainty, not knowing the whereabouts of their relatives or what happened to them," the OHCHR representative noted. He emphasized that the fate of all missing persons—both before and after the fall of the previous government—must be clarified immediately, and expressed support for the work of Independent Institute for Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic.

Al-Khitan cited the example of the disappearance of Syrian Civil Defense volunteer Hamza Al-Amarin, who went missing on July 16, 2025, during a humanitarian mission to evacuate people during the fighting. in the province of As-SuwaydaThe man's fate remains unknown.

Continued instability

The UN representative recalled that all armed groups – both state and non-state – have an obligation to respect and protect humanitarian workers in accordance with international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

“Accountability and justice for all human rights violations, past and present, are critical to building a lasting and peaceful future for all Syrians,” he stressed.

Answering journalists' questions, Al-Khitan stated that since the change of power in the country, the situation remains unstable, with various forces and groups vying for influence. He noted that people are afraid to contact the UN due to threats, making it difficult to determine the actual number of abducted and disappeared. Since January 2025, the Office has documented 97 cases of abductions, but many remain unreported for fear of reprisals. Some of the abductees were subsequently released, but no definitive information has been released.

Efforts of the Independent Institute

He added that work to establish the Independent Institute for Missing Persons in Syria began even before the change of power, and the mechanism was quickly put into action after the regime's fall. According to Al-Khitan, this is "difficult but vital work," requiring the full support of the international community and the cooperation of the Syrian authorities.

According to OHCHR, many of the abductions occurred during outbreaks of armed violence, For example, in coastal areas and the province of As-Suwayda, but new incidents continue to be reported.

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Experts from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry visited Ukraine

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November 7, 2025 International law

Experts from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry visited Ukraine from November 2 to November 6. They reported that during the visit, they held meetings with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Prosecutor General's Office, the Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, as well as with civil society representatives and torture victims.

The visit took place shortly after the Commission presented its report The UN General Assembly stated that Russian authorities had carried out forced evictions and deportations of Ukrainian civilians in a systematic and coordinated manner.

"The Commission concluded that short-range drone attacks on numerous settlements along the right bank of the Dnieper constitute crimes against humanity in the form of murder and forced displacement of population. Furthermore, the deportation or displacement of civilians from the occupied areas of the Zaporizhia region constitutes war crimes," the press release stated.

Since its establishment in 2022, the Commission's experts have visited Ukraine 26 times, as well as conducted working visits to Georgia, Estonia, the Netherlands, and Poland. During their tenure, they have published nine reports and made several oral statements.

"The Commission documented a wide range of violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, as well as international crimes, primarily committed by Russian authorities during the Russian Federation's full-scale invasion of Ukraine," the press release states. These violations, the experts report, were committed against both civilians—men, women, children, and the elderly—and military personnel.

According to the Commission, indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks using explosive weapons carried out by Russian armed forces resulted in widespread destruction and numerous civilian casualties.

"These attacks targeted civilian infrastructure receiving special protection, including medical facilities. Russian armed forces often failed to take necessary precautions to avoid harming civilians," the experts report.

The Commission also found that "Russian armed forces and authorities committed a number of war crimes against the civilian population, civilian infrastructure, and members of the Ukrainian armed forces," including the deportation of children and adult civilians, attacks on civilians and infrastructure, the killing of civilians and prisoners of war, and torture and sexual violence.

Read also:

The UN General Assembly heard a new report from the Independent Commission on Ukraine.

As a result of these crimes, according to experts, thousands of people died, many were wounded, maimed, lost their loved ones, and also lost property, housing, and livelihoods.

"The conflict has shattered lives, divided families, and destroyed cultural treasures. The pain and trauma caused by a war of this magnitude will leave deep scars for generations," the press release states.

The commission also investigated violations committed by the Ukrainian authorities. It found that the Ukrainian authorities were responsible for several violations of human rights and humanitarian law, including indiscriminate attacks.

In some cases, arbitrary arrests and detentions, torture, ill-treatment, and disappearances of persons accused of “collaboration” were recorded.

The commission also examined other alleged violations committed by the Ukrainian authorities, but was unable to complete the investigations due to lack of access to certain areas, risks to the safety of witnesses, and a lack of response from the Russian authorities.

The Commission aims to promote accountability for crimes and violations committed in order to end impunity and strengthen respect for international law, experts say.

The Commission consistently promotes a broad understanding of accountability, including criminal prosecution and the realization of victims' rights. Particular attention is paid to rehabilitation, mental health protection, and psychosocial support.

"This armed conflict remains complex and widespread, and much remains to be investigated. Within its capabilities and mandate, the Commission will continue to contribute to the process of holding those responsible accountable, ensuring justice and ensuring the rights of all victims are met," the experts stated.

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Global food prices fell in October

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November 7, 2025 Economic development

Global food prices fell in October, according to a press release published Friday by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in international quotations for major food commodities, stood at 126.4 points in October, down 1.6 percent from September.

The grain price index fell by 1.3 percent compared to September, with declines recorded across all major grains. Wheat prices fell by exactly one percent, while rice fell by 2.5 percent.

The meat price index fell by two percent over the month, primarily due to a sharp drop in pork and poultry prices. Beef prices, on the other hand, continued to rise, primarily due to high prices for Australian products amid robust global demand.

The dairy price index fell by 3.4 percent in October, driven by a sharp drop in butter prices due to abundant export supplies from the European Union and New Zealand. The price of powdered milk also declined due to limited import demand and intense competition among exporters.

The average sugar price decreased by 5.3 percent compared to the previous month, reaching its lowest level since December 2020. This trend is due to high production rates in Brazil and an expected increase in export stocks in Thailand and India.

The vegetable oil price index increased by 0.9 percent in October, reaching its highest level since July 2022. Prices for palm, rapeseed, soybean, and sunflower oils rose due to a combination of factors, including delays in the Black Sea harvest.

Forecasts point to a record grain harvest

Also on Friday, the FAO published updated forecasts for the global grain market. Global grain production is expected to increase by 4.4 percent in 2025, reaching 2.99 billion tonnes, a record high. Production growth is forecast for all major grains. Global grain stocks are projected to increase by 5.7 percent, reaching a record 916.3 million tonnes. The stock-to-use ratio in the 2025–2026 season is projected to reach 31.1 percent, the highest level since 2017–2018.

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A new program dedicated to the unity of the peoples of Russia was presented at the Matryoshka Moscow Festival.

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Source: Moscow Metro

November 4, Moscow. On National Unity Day, the "Matryoshka of Moscow" media installation presented an updated program dedicated to the diversity and uniqueness of Russia's peoples.

That evening, residents and visitors to the capital enjoyed a unique multimedia show, unparalleled anywhere in the world. According to Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport, over 30 new animated scenes with 3D graphics were prepared for visitors to Zaryadye Park, reflecting the natural and cultural riches of our country.

Recognizable symbols of Russia came to life on huge screens:

🔹 Gzhel-style owl🔹 Arctic polar bears🔹 the bountiful harvest of the southern regions🔹 the majestic mountain peaks of the Caucasus🔹 Yakut bone figurine – a talisman of the North

For the first time, the "Matryoshka of Moscow" was presented in images symbolizing the unity and identity of the peoples of Russia.

"The innovative 'Matryoshka of Moscow' attraction is unique in the world. It's not just a tourist attraction, but a new platform for digital art. Its key feature is a unique kinetic installation that changes shape every 1-2 seconds. At the behest of Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, the technology was implemented by Moscow engineers and designers. Moscow specialists spent several months creating a multimedia performance that is unparalleled anywhere in the world. Each element was hand-drawn to showcase Russia's natural and cultural riches—from the Far North to the Caucasus," said Maxim Liksutov.

The new program emphasizes the idea of a united Russia, where culture, technology, and art come together to create a modern image of a country that values traditions and is inspired by the future.

China promotes integrated development of coal power and new energy sources

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) — China has taken measures to promote the integrated development of coal power and new energy sources to support the green and low-carbon transition of its energy structure.

In a new policy document, China's National Energy Administration called on coal-mining regions to accelerate the development of wind and solar power projects, promote the substitution of traditional energy sources by using electric and hydrogen-powered mining trucks, use renewable energy for heating and cooling, and build smart microgrids for the supply and trading of green electricity.

According to the agency, by the end of the 15th five-year plan (2026-2030), the model for developing new energy sources in coal-mining regions will be largely formed.

This move marks the latest stage in the development of China's new energy sector. As of the end of September, the country's total installed renewable energy capacity reached nearly 2.2 billion kW, accounting for 59.1 percent of the total grid capacity. In the first three quarters of this year, renewable energy sources accounted for approximately 40 percent of China's total electricity generation.

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The State Council Taiwan Affairs Office of the People's Republic of China noted the importance of the meeting between Xi Jinping and Ma Ying-jeou in 2015 for cross-Straits relations.

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, November 7 (Xinhua) — The historic meeting between Xi Jinping and Ma Ying-jeou in 2015, the first such meeting between leaders from both sides of the Taiwan Strait since 1949, is a significant milestone in the history of cross-strait relations, and its 10th anniversary is celebrated on Friday, according to Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council.

Chen Binhua made the statement in response to a journalist's question regarding the meeting, the importance of which was recently emphasized by Ma Ying-jeou on social media. The significance of the meeting was also mentioned during a commemorative seminar in Taipei, attended and addressed by Kuomintang Party Chairwoman Zheng Liwen.

Chen Binhua noted that the meeting held ten years ago strengthened the key role of the 1992 consensus as the political basis for the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, demonstrating that Chinese people on both sides of the Strait have the ability and wisdom to resolve their own internal issues.

The official also noted that as long as the 1992 consensus is adhered to and "Taiwan independence" is opposed, relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait can develop peacefully, strengthening the well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Strait.

On the contrary, denying the 1992 consensus, abandoning the one-China principle, attempting to create division under the pretext of seeking "Taiwan independence," and inciting hostility and confrontation between the two sides of the Strait will make consultations and dialogue between the two sides impossible, exacerbate the threat of a dangerous war in the Taiwan Strait, and harm the interests of Taiwan compatriots, Chen Binhua warned.

Reunification is a historical trend and the right path, while "Taiwan independence" is a regressive historical trend and a dead end. Only a timely resolution of the political standoff between the two sides of the Strait and progress toward complete national reunification can ensure long-term peace in the Taiwan Strait, Chen Binhua stated.

Based on the common political foundation of upholding the 1992 consensus and opposing "Taiwan independence," the Chinese mainland is willing to strengthen dialogue, communication, exchanges, and contacts with the Kuomintang Party and other political parties, associations, and representative figures in Taiwan, jointly promote the development of cross-Strait relations, safeguard peace between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, and strive for the well-being of all compatriots and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, the official representative concluded.

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Think tanks presented a report on the strategic plan for China's socio-economic development during the 15th Five-Year Plan.

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) — A think tank report on China's strategic plan for socio-economic development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030) was released in Beijing on Friday.

The report was presented at a symposium on the study of the guidelines of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, which took place in late October. The event was co-organized by high-level national think tanks affiliated with the Party History and Documentation Institute of the CPC Central Committee and the Xinhua News Agency.

The report, jointly prepared by the two think tanks, provides an in-depth analysis and prospective assessment of China's development priorities for the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

Speaking at the symposium, Qu Qingshan, Director of the Institute for the Study of Party History and Documentation under the CPC Central Committee, noted that the proposals of the party leadership for drafting the 15th Five-Year Plan, adopted at the 4th Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, serve as a mobilizing impetus and a comprehensive blueprint for further advancing Chinese-style modernization.

In his speech, Xinhua Director-General Fu Hua stated that the report represents the latest advancement in research, based on a deep understanding of the guiding principles formulated at the plenary session. "The report aims to provide an interpretation of the wisdom that continues to guide China along the path of modernization," he explained.

More than 200 representatives from over 100 countries took part in the exchange of views at the event. –0–

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China's Ministry of Commerce has suspended some export control measures introduced on October 9.

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, November 7 (Xinhua) — China's Ministry of Commerce on Friday announced the suspension of some export control measures announced on October 9. The suspension will take effect immediately and remain in effect until November 10, 2026.

The suspension applies to measures announced in six specific statements, most of which concerned controls on the export of rare earth metals.

Four statements were jointly issued by the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China, namely, Statements No. 55, No. 56, No. 57 and No. 58 of 2025. They cover the export control of the following items: superhard materials, lithium batteries, artificial graphite anode materials, equipment, raw materials and auxiliary materials for producing and processing rare earth metals, and five medium and heavy rare earth elements including holmium.

Two more announcements were issued by the Ministry of Commerce, namely, Announcements No. 61 and No. 62 of 2025, concerning export controls on certain rare earth metals related to foreign countries and technologies related to rare earth elements. –0–

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