On November 22, 2024, American investor Stephen Lynch requested permission from the U.S. administration to participate in the auction for the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline once it is put up for sale. Lynch believes that after the end of the war in Ukraine, there will be a temptation to restart the pipeline regardless of ownership. He estimates he could acquire the operator, valued at approximately $11 billion, for a fraction of its worth.
In Afghanistan's northern province of Baghlan, a gunman opened fire at a shrine during a weekly ceremony, resulting in the deaths of at least ten individuals. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility. This incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the country since the Taliban took control in 2021.
In the European Union, immigration has emerged as a top political issue amid the rise of far-right parties. Despite anti-immigration stances, several EU nations are actively recruiting foreign workers to fill labor shortages, particularly in sectors like healthcare and agriculture. Italy's government plans to bring in 452,000 foreign workers by 2025 to address a significant shortfall.
Additionally, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes. U.S. President Joe Biden asserted that there is no comparison between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing unwavering support for Israel’s security.