#News of the world [Advanced] - By Cate - 24/11/2025

A quick glance at what's happening on Mother Earth 🌍

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Transcript

Hello, Cate here and welcome back to NEWS OF THE WORLD!

In World News…

The US President has suggested that future talks with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro might be possible, even as tensions rise over a major US military buildup in the region. His comments came as Washington announced plans to classify the Cartel de los Soles — which it says is run by Maduro and senior Venezuelan officials — as a foreign terrorist organisation. US officials claim the group works with other criminal networks and is linked to drug trafficking into the US and Europe.

Venezuela strongly rejects these accusations, calling the military buildup a strategy to undermine or remove Maduro from power. Washington insists Maduro is not the country’s legitimate leader and that the cartel has corrupted Venezuela’s institutions.

Meanwhile, the US anti-trafficking campaign at sea has become increasingly deadly. More than 80 people have been killed in strikes on vessels the US says were involved in drug smuggling, though no evidence has been publicly released to prove the targets were traffickers. US aircraft carriers and naval forces are now deployed in the Caribbean as part of Operation Southern Spear.

Business News

The US transportation department has lifted its emergency order to cut flights nationwide, saying enough air traffic controllers are now back at work to remove safety risks. During the 43-day government shutdown that began in October, many controllers — required to work without pay — called in absent or took second jobs, creating severe staffing shortages. Airports struggled to keep flights moving, sometimes relying on towers miles away.

To prevent accidents, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ordered airlines on 7th November to reduce scheduled take-offs by up to 10%. Thousands of flights were cancelled or delayed in the first week alone. Now, with the shutdown over, staffing levels have “snapped back,” just in time for the Thanksgiving travel rush. More than six million Americans are expected to fly — the busiest travel period of the year.

The Transportation Secretary confirmed that normal operations can resume and said the focus will now shift to accelerating controller hiring and modernising the air-traffic system.

Controllers will finally receive their back pay and can return to work without the threat of dismissal.

Entertainment

When the French baguette received UNESCO heritage status in 2022, it was celebrated as a national symbol — “250 grams of magic and perfection,” as President Macron called it. Yet, despite the honour, France’s love affair with its most famous loaf seems to be cooling.

Bread consumption has dropped sharply — from an average of 700 grams a day after World War II to just 100 grams today – less than half a baguette. Younger generations are eating out more, cooking less, and reaching for fast food or sliced supermarket bread instead of visiting their local boulangerie.

But change isn’t all bad. A new wave of “neo-bakeries” is reviving the art of quality breadmaking, using organic flour and ancient grains to bake long-fermented sourdoughs that last longer, taste better, and reduce waste. Some have even stopped selling baguettes altogether — a radical move in France.

Still, traditional bakers insist the baguette isn’t going anywhere. Whether simple or gourmet, plain or beetroot-pink, it remains a delicious symbol of French culture — constantly evolving but never forgotten.

Sport

Former England captain Sir David Beckham has officially been knighted by King Charles for his services to football and to British society. The 50-year-old received the honour during a ceremony at Windsor Castle, joined by his wife Victoria and his parents. Beckham said he “couldn’t be prouder”, adding that his love for his country and respect for the monarchy have always been central to his life.

Victoria, who designed the elegant suit he wore, said the look was inspired by young King Charles — a suit that impressed the monarch himself.

Beckham’s career has been extraordinary: 115 England caps, six years as captain, and success with Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. Yet his influence extends far beyond football. He played a key role in London’s 2012 Olympic bid, has worked with UNICEF since 2005, and now supports the King’s Foundation, helping young people connect with nature.

From east London to Windsor Castle, Beckham’s journey symbolises not just sporting greatness, but dedication, patriotism, and a lifelong commitment to service. He’s come a long way.

Self-development

As the festive season approaches, many of us feel pulled in a dozen directions at once — work deadlines, social plans, family commitments, and that ever-growing to-do list. It’s tempting to try to do everything at the same time, but science shows that multitasking is a myth. Our brains can only focus deeply on one thing at a time, and switching rapidly between tasks actually slows us down, increases stress, and reduces accuracy.

That’s where monotasking comes in. Monotasking simply means giving your full attention to one task before moving to the next. It helps you work more efficiently, make fewer mistakes, and feel calmer and more present. Imagine writing a report without checking your phone every few minutes or cooking dinner without glancing at emails — it’s amazing how much faster and better you perform and it’s so much more enjoyable!

As we move into the busiest time of the year, challenge yourself to do one thing at a time. Try setting a timer for 25 minutes of focused work, then take a short break before moving on. Or make a daily list but tackle each task completely before crossing it off. Monotasking is a small change that can make the season feel more joyful, less chaotic, and far more productive.

Well, that’s all from NEWS OF THE WORLD for now. I hope you take one step at a time today, and I’ll talk to you soon! Take care!