Myanmar to hold first phase of general election on December 28
Myanmar will begin its first general election since the 2021 coup on December 28, Reuters reported.
Authorities said the vote will take place in multiple phases through December and January due to security concerns.
No additional details were provided on the initial phase.
German foreign minister urges more pressure on Russia before Trump–Zelenskiy meeting
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Monday urged stronger pressure on Russia and increased support for Ukraine, saying it was key to securing a “just and lasting peace.”
Speaking in Tokyo, Wadephul stressed that Ukraine must receive firm security guarantees to defend itself even after any ceasefire. His remarks came as President Donald Trump prepares to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and other European leaders in Washington, following Trump’s recent talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, according to Reuters.
On Sunday, Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Zelenskiy to strengthen Kyiv’s position. They backed US discussions on security guarantees but insisted that Ukraine be included in territorial negotiations and that its remaining territory be protected.
Hong Kong democrat Jimmy Lai given heart monitor for final stretch of marathon trial
Hong Kong pro-democracy businessman Jimmy Lai, 77, appeared in court for the start of his final submissions in a national security trial after experiencing heart palpitations. Lai, founder of the closed Apple Daily, faces charges of colluding with foreign forces and publishing seditious material, which he denies. Reuters reported.
He was provided medication and a heart monitor, with a medical expert confirming he is fit for court. Supporters expressed concern over his health after nearly 1,700 days in solitary confinement.
According to Reuters, western governments, including the US and Australia, have called for his release and criticized Hong Kong’s national security laws, while authorities insist Lai is receiving a fair trial.
Researchers in Australia map human bone marrow, redefining blood cancer research
Australian researchers have mapped human bone marrow at the molecular level, uncovering new insights into multiple myeloma, Xinhua reported.
Using advanced spatial transcriptomics, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI) analyzed over 5,000 genes in individual cells, revealing that cancerous plasma cells form unique microenvironments in the bone marrow. “It’s like discovering that each tumor has its own postcode,” said researcher Raymond Yip.
According to Xinhua, the findings explain why patients respond differently to treatments and could guide more personalized approaches to managing the incurable blood cancer, which affects over 2,500 Australians annually.
