Many households in the Northeast United States, where heating oil is commonly used, face higher heating costs this winter due to rising heating oil prices. The increase in prices is linked to disruptions in the global oil market following the conflict in the Middle East, causing some families to pay much more to heat their homes as temperatures drop.
Key Facts
Heating oil prices have risen more than 70% compared to last year, averaging over $6 per gallon.
About 4.8 million U.S. households rely on heating oil, mostly in the Northeast.
Maine has the highest share of homes using heating oil, with about 50% relying on it for heat.
Other states with significant heating oil use include New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York.
Heating oil and diesel fuel are similar, so supply issues affect both prices.
A typical Northeast household using heating oil might need 800 to 1,000 gallons in a heating season.
This could translate into heating bills around $6,000, compared to approximately $3,500 to $4,000 in previous years.
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects a 21% increase in heating oil spending this winter compared to last year.
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French authorities want to ban some protests amid ongoing unrest and riots. President Emmanuel Macron plans to meet with students on Friday to discuss the situation.
Key Facts
A curfew is in place in parts of Paris every night until Monday morning.
French students have continued to protest, even during school holidays.
The French Prime Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, has met with political party leaders about the unrest.
Shopkeepers in France are worried about possible new looting during upcoming protests.
President Macron has promised to stop violence linked to the protests.
Some groups have found that pro-Russian online accounts have spread messages to increase anger in France.
Marine Le Pen, a far-right politician, has gained support during the protests and riots.
The protests involve concerns over education and rising prices but have also included violent acts.
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The Pentagon has issued a rule that stops military members from using secret or private information to bet on prediction markets, which are platforms to guess outcomes of events. This rule follows a case where a Special Forces soldier was charged with using military secrets to make bets and win money about the ousting of Venezuela’s president.
Key Facts
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sent a memo banning troops and Department of Defense civilians from betting on military events using nonpublic information.
Using such information to bet can reveal secret plans to enemies and create risks in military operations.
A Special Forces soldier was charged with using classified details about a mission to bet over $400,000 on Polymarket.
Troops cannot use either classified or unclassified but private information for trading on prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi.
Breaking this rule can lead to military punishment or criminal charges under U.S. law.
The concern is that financial interests might influence military judgment and decisions.
Similar concerns exist outside the military, such as congressional candidates betting on election outcomes and people profiting from private info about ceasefire announcements.
The White House has also warned against trading on prediction markets using private information.
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Young people, often called Generation Z, are leading protests in several countries over issues like education, housing, and government policies that affect them. These protests show growing concerns about inequality, worsening public services, and problems like job security and climate change that impact their futures.
Key Facts
In France, large protests started over poor conditions in public schools, with hundreds of thousands joining.
In India, a movement called the Cockroach movement opposes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, especially after many voters were removed from electoral lists.
In Spain, protests erupted due to a housing crisis and laws that fail to stop evictions; an 87-year-old woman died soon after being evicted.
Inequality has increased since 2008, affecting income, wealth, and access to public services like health and education.
Public services have weakened due to budget cuts, making it harder for many people, especially young ones, to get quality education and healthcare.
Young people face challenges from rapid AI growth, which is starting to replace entry-level jobs.
The climate crisis is seen as a major problem for young people’s futures, worsened by unequal societies.
Governments are struggling to regulate social media and AI effectively, which impacts young people’s mental health and education.
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A new personalized cancer vaccine combined with immunotherapy has lowered the chance of melanoma skin cancer returning or spreading by about 40% in a large clinical trial. The vaccine uses technology similar to some COVID-19 vaccines and is tailored to each patient’s tumor.
Key Facts
The trial involved 1,137 melanoma patients who had surgery to remove tumors.
Patients received the immunotherapy drug Keytruda, and about two-thirds also got the new vaccine called Intismeran.
The vaccine is personalized using mRNA technology, which teaches the immune system to spot and attack cancer cells.
After two years, those getting the vaccine had 42% less risk of dying or cancer returning and 38% less risk of the cancer spreading.
The vaccine approach is also being tested on other cancers like kidney, bladder, and lung cancer.
Independent experts said longer studies are needed to confirm if it helps patients live longer overall.
Drug companies MSD and Moderna plan to ask regulators to approve the vaccine as early as next year.
Cost and the need for genetic analysis of each tumor will affect how widely the vaccine can be used.
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Oil prices have risen to nearly $111 per barrel as fighting and attacks on oil tankers increase near the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route. Emergency oil reserves worldwide are at their lowest levels in decades after being heavily used since the conflict between the US and Iran started in February 2025.
Key Facts
Brent crude oil price rose to $110.85 per barrel, close to a five-month high.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported attacks on multiple oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz.
The Houthis in Yemen captured territory near the Bab al-Mandeb strait, another important shipping route.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) coordinates emergency oil reserves held by many countries to manage supply emergencies.
Since February 2025, over 400 million barrels of oil have been released from strategic reserves worldwide, more than double the amount released after the Ukraine war began.
The US Strategic Petroleum Reserve is at its lowest level since 1982, holding about 283 million barrels.
Analysts estimate around 400 million barrels of usable emergency oil remain globally, excluding major reserves that may be difficult to access or export.
China has reserves for roughly 80 days of refinery use but is not part of the IEA stockpile-sharing system.
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Retail sales in Great Britain dropped by 0.4% in September, a larger fall than experts expected. Most types of stores saw fewer sales, except for motor fuel and department stores, as consumers spend less amid lower confidence and warm weather affecting clothing sales.
Key Facts
Retail sales volume fell 0.4% month on month in September 2024.
Economists predicted only a 0.1% drop, so the actual fall was much bigger.
Online sales, especially for autumn and winter clothes, dropped due to warm weather.
Motor fuel sales increased by 2.2% despite high prices at gas stations.
Without fuel sales, overall retail sales dropped by 0.7%.
Food and drink sales helped grow overall quarterly sales but fell slightly in September.
Clothing, household goods, and supermarket sales all declined.
The fall in sales comes before the UK chancellor announces the budget next week.
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President Donald Trump has called for a boycott of the WNBA because some players leave the court during the national anthem. He also criticized basketball player LeBron James for moving during the anthem at a recent game, saying it shows disrespect to the country.
Key Facts
WNBA players from the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries have left the court during the national anthem at the WNBA Finals.
The Golden State Valkyries say leaving the court during the anthem is part of their routine since joining the league last year.
The Atlanta Dream has left the court before the anthem for several years.
President Trump called for a WNBA boycott during a campaign rally in Iowa.
He compared the WNBA player actions to past NFL protests where players kneeled during the anthem.
Trump said people stopped watching NFL games during those protests and suggested the same could happen with women’s basketball.
Trump called LeBron James a "total disgrace" for not standing still during the anthem at a recent game.
LeBron James was seen practicing a golf swing and basketball shots while the anthem was sung before the Philadelphia 76ers season opener.
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Europe faces ongoing challenges from Russia’s war in Ukraine, which affects more than just the battlefield. With President Trump pushing for a settlement and threatening to reduce US support, Europe must strengthen its economic and industrial ability to support Ukraine and protect itself.
Key Facts
Russia’s war has heavily damaged parts of Ukraine, especially in the south and east.
Europe has helped finance Ukraine’s defense, including a recent €90 billion loan without US backing.
President Trump is seeking a settlement with Russia that could be unfavorable to Ukraine and threatens to reduce US support.
European Union countries remain divided on sanctions and energy policies related to Russia.
EU has imposed its largest sanctions list but still allows Russian pipeline gas imports until 2027.
Europe needs to build a "war economy" with stronger joint borrowing and defense industry capacity.
The EU’s successful borrowing during COVID-19 showed that borrowing together can work in crises.
Strong financial and industrial foundations are necessary for Europe to defend itself against future threats.
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President Donald Trump received a "Man of the Century" award from Joe Mitchell, a Republican candidate for Congress in Iowa, during a campaign rally. The award was created by Mitchell and presented to Trump on stage as a recognition of his achievements.
Key Facts
Joe Mitchell is running for Iowa’s second congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Mitchell gave Trump a gold-framed certificate titled “Man of the Century” during a rally in Sioux City, Iowa.
Mitchell said no Nobel Peace Prize was given to Trump and created this new award instead.
Mitchell praised Trump for his support to Iowa and called him the greatest president.
The award was not an official honor but something Mitchell made up himself.
The moment was shared on social media, where some users made fun of the award.
Newsweek tried to get comments from the White House and Mitchell’s campaign but did not receive immediate responses.
The story is ongoing and may be updated later.
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The Indian government is lowering prices on 137 cancer drugs to make treatment more affordable after the Supreme Court found large price mark-ups by hospitals and pharmacies. This move aims to reduce the financial burden on poor cancer patients who often face debt or give up treatment due to high costs.
Key Facts
The price cuts will start next month and cover 137 cancer drugs.
The Supreme Court described high mark-ups on cancer drugs as "extortion" and "carnage."
Hospitals and chemists were charging much more than the government wholesale price; for example, one drug costing 2,700 rupees was sold for 27,000 rupees.
Some cancer drugs had mark-ups of over 700%, with an average of 170%.
Before, only 42 drugs had a 30% trade margin cap, but now this cap applies to more drugs.
The price reduction could lower drug costs by up to 70%, saving patients about 2,500 crore rupees (£199 million) yearly.
Many poor patients avoid cancer tests or treatment due to fear of high costs.
India’s government insurance covers some cancer costs but often not enough for expensive drugs or full treatment.
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Mark Zuckerberg arranged a deal with Meta’s board to help pay a new California billionaire tax if voters approve it in the November election. The tax would charge 5% on the wealth of Californians worth over $1 billion, and Zuckerberg’s deal lets him sell non-voting shares to cover the tax without losing control of Meta.
Key Facts
The proposed California tax would charge a one-time 5% fee on wealth above $1 billion for residents.
Zuckerberg is estimated to have a net worth over $220 billion, potentially owing more than $11 billion under the tax.
Meta and Zuckerberg agreed he can sell new non-voting shares to pay the tax but still stay the majority owner.
Zuckerberg committed to remaining in California for at least eight years unless unexpected reasons force him to move.
The tax aims to replace federal healthcare funding cuts (most proceeds) and fund education and food aid (about 10%).
Some billionaires, like Google’s Sergey Brin and Larry Page, oppose the tax and support efforts to block it.
Billionaires’ opposition group, Building a Better California, raised over $333 million, while supporters raised around $32.7 million.
Zuckerberg has taken a $1 annual salary as Meta CEO since 2013 and will not receive extra pay due to this deal.
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The court will announce the verdict on December 22 in the trial over the 2020 death of Argentine football star Diego Maradona. Seven healthcare workers, including Maradona’s main doctor, are accused of being careless in his care leading to his death.
Key Facts
The trial lasted six months and ended with statements from Maradona’s daughter and the defendants.
Diego Maradona died in November 2020 at age 60 from heart failure and lung swelling.
Maradona was recovering at home after minor brain surgery when he died.
Seven healthcare workers are on trial for negligence, with prison terms of 4 to 12 years requested by prosecutors.
Leopoldo Luque, Maradona’s main doctor, denies wrongdoing and says he was made a “scapegoat.”
The defense argued Maradona’s death was not predictable and that Luque cared deeply for him.
The prosecution said the care was insufficient, pointing out the lack of hospital equipment at home.
Medical experts said warning signs like Maradona’s breathing trouble and fast heartbeat were ignored before his death.
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The U.S. State Department warned Americans in Paris to be cautious and avoid protests ahead of the NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints. Violent protests in France, involving damage and clashes with police, have raised safety concerns for visitors during the event.
Key Facts
The NFL will hold its first game in Paris featuring the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints.
The game is scheduled for Sunday.
The U.S. State Department issued a security alert advising Americans in France to avoid demonstrations and crowded areas.
Multiple protest groups planned demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday in Paris.
Recent protests in France have been violent, including property damage, looting, and attacks on police.
Police have used tear gas and other means to control crowds.
The protests began in late September over high living costs and poor school conditions.
Protests can change without notice and might happen outside planned routes.
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Brazil will hold a runoff election on October 25, 2026, which could change politics in Latin America. In the first round, Flavio Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, led by about two million votes over the current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
Key Facts
Brazil’s runoff election is scheduled for October 25, 2026.
Flavio Bolsonaro is the leading candidate after the first round of voting.
Flavio Bolsonaro is the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is the runner-up in the first round.
The election outcome may impact the political situation in Latin America.
The article highlights why global viewers should pay attention to this election.
The first round vote difference was a bit more than two million votes.
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The U.S. midterm elections happening in November could affect the last two years of President Donald Trump’s term. The results may impact how easily he can pass laws or start investigations depending on which party controls Congress.
Key Facts
President Trump is not running for re-election during the midterms.
The midterms decide control of Congress, which includes the House of Representatives and the Senate.
If President Trump's party controls Congress, it will be easier for him to pass laws.
If the opposing party controls Congress, it could block his legislative plans.
Control of Congress affects the ability to launch investigations related to the president or his administration.
The midterms influence the political environment for the remainder of President Trump’s current term.
Voters choose their congressional representatives in these midterm elections.
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The US government and its officials have given unclear statements about why Ukraine’s access to the Starshield satellite system, used for military communication and drone control, was limited. President Donald Trump said the access has now been fully restored, but a European official claimed restrictions were still in place.
Key Facts
Ukraine’s Starshield satellite system was restricted, affecting its military drone operations.
Starshield is a military-grade version of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service.
President Donald Trump said access to the system was restored after some days of limited access.
US officials gave mixed messages about who ordered the restrictions, with no clear explanation given.
European officials indicated the speed limit on the system remained capped as of October 23, 2026.
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal announced an investigation into the cause of the restrictions.
Vice President JD Vance suggested coordination with Elon Musk, while other officials denied White House involvement.
Elon Musk directed questions about the system to the Pentagon, as it is a military technology.
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Senator Jordon Steele-John from the Australian Greens is facing allegations of inappropriate behavior towards women. The party leader, David Shoebridge, has called for an independent investigation, but Steele-John denies the claims and refuses to take leave from parliament.
Key Facts
Allegations against Steele-John date from 2017 to 2025 and involve inappropriate conduct toward women.
The Greens received a letter requesting an independent probe into these allegations.
Steele-John denies the allegations and claims he did not agree to take leave from his duties.
Party leader Shoebridge says Steele-John agreed to leave but cannot force him without party majority support.
Removing Steele-John would need two-thirds of Greens members to vote for expulsion.
Steel-John is the Greens’ disability spokesperson and has strong support within the disability community.
This situation tests Shoebridge’s leadership and the Greens’ processes for handling internal issues.
The party aims to resolve the matter while maintaining fairness and consensus decision-making.
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The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has decided to support Gianni Infantino for another term as FIFA president. This is a change from earlier doubts after Infantino apologized for mistakes related to a failed financial plan.
Key Facts
The AFC, which has 47 member groups, endorsed FIFA President Gianni Infantino for a fourth term.
The FIFA presidential election will be held in March, with a November 18 deadline to challenge Infantino. No official challenger has yet filed.
Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, AFC president, publicly supported Infantino at a meeting in Tokyo.
Two months ago, the AFC had criticized Infantino for a “fundamental breach of trust” over a $4.2 billion deal to sell a stake in FIFA events.
Infantino apologized recently to FIFA’s ruling council for mistakes related to that deal.
Sheikh Salman said most AFC members now support Infantino despite past issues.
Infantino has traveled widely to gain support from football countries worldwide.
The AFC’s endorsement signals a united backing from Asian football for Infantino’s new term.
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Europe is starting winter with very low natural gas reserves, which makes it vulnerable to supply problems. The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) said that ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, especially the US-Israel war on Iran, are disrupting gas supplies and could raise energy prices in Europe this winter.
Key Facts
Europe’s gas storage is currently 72% full, below the usual 90% seen before winter.
Low gas reserves mean Europe may face higher prices and energy shortages in the coming months.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for liquefied natural gas (LNG), is experiencing disruptions due to conflicts involving Iran.
About 10% of Europe’s LNG supply traveled through the Strait of Hormuz before the war.
Iran has attacked vessels, reducing gas imports to Europe.
Europe depends heavily on imported gas to heat homes and power industries in winter.
The International Energy Agency has coordinated emergency oil and diesel stock releases to stabilize markets since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The EU’s reliance on Russian fuel and aging refineries has contributed to current energy shortages, including diesel fuel needed for trucks and agriculture.
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