UK retail sales fall 0.4% in September, more than forecast
UK retail sales fell 0.4% in September, exceeding forecasts, as warm weather cut clothing demand. Consumer confidence collapsed in October amid high fuel and mortgage costs.
International
Venezuelans call for elections in first national protest in nearly two years
Venezuelans held their first nationwide protest in two years, demanding free elections. Thousands marched peacefully, with minimal security presence, urging an electoral timetable.
Microsoft develops AI tool that can diagnose ‘sequentially’ like a doctor
Microsoft's new AI diagnoses step-by-step like a doctor, outperforming general physicians by over 2x in complex cases while costing less, per Science study.
Deadly Canadian military base fire began on grenade launcher range
A fire on a grenade launcher range at a Canadian military base killed four soldiers and injured dozens. Firefighters couldn't directly combat it due to the permanent danger area.
Student protests mushroom across Europe, exposing bleak views of the future
Student protests spread across at least eight European countries over high rents, poor schools and weak jobs, reflecting young people's bleak fears of low pay and shrinking welfare.
Around 150,000 rally in Belgrade as Serbia heads to pivotal poll
About 150,000 rallied in Belgrade for Serbia’s student-backed opposition ahead of an Oct 25 election, challenging Aleksandar Vucic’s 14-year rule amid a tense campaign.
Tunisian police clash with protesters in capital on day of heightened tensions
Tunisian police fired tear gas and clashed with protesters after deaths in custody and a delayed ambulance, amid economic and political crisis and growing anti-government unrest.
Zelenskyy says fresh Russian strikes show 'no change' in Kremlin position
Zelenskyy says new Russian strikes prove Moscow's position hasn't changed, signaling no shift toward peace despite ongoing attacks.
Putin says talks must focus on security for Russia, Ukraine and Europe overall
Putin said Ukraine peace talks must cover security guarantees for Russia, Ukraine and Europe and seek a lasting settlement, not a short ceasefire; Russia is ready for US-mediated talks in November.
Trump backs US campaign attack ad featuring Democrat’s estranged mother
Trump backed Vivek Ramaswamy’s Ohio governor ad featuring Democrat Amy Acton’s estranged mother, calling it “very powerful” amid criticism that the ad is cruel and ignores Acton’s abuse allegations.
US Democratic senator probes Ukraine's loss of Starshield service
Democratic Senator Blumenthal probes Ukraine's loss of Starshield satellite service, questioning who controls critical capabilities and whether the Pentagon has alternatives.
French authorities seek to ban or curb fresh protests
French authorities are seeking to ban or curb fresh protests amid tensions following weekend demonstrations.