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Trump aims for quick end to Ukraine war, but challenges persist. Ukraine seeks leverage through battlefield moves. Peace unlikely, ceasefire possible. Russia may use truce to regroup for future conflict. Ukraine stands strong after three years of war.
Trump’s national security adviser vows to keep TikTok alive in the U.S. with a viable deal. Top Democrat urges Biden to extend deadline for TikTok’s U.S. assets divestiture. Court may decide on TikTok ban. Trump’s shift on TikTok ban due to support from tech executives and Republican donor. Concerns about Chinese ownership persist. Biden unlikely to intervene to block ban.
Foreign nationals, particularly Ethiopian businessmen, are being targeted by kidnappers in Eastern Cape since 2022, escalating into a war. In Qonce, two people are abducted weekly, with ransom demands. Informants believe they have identified the kidnappers’ base, alleging police involvement. Syndicates use ransom from small-scale kidnappings to fund larger operations, targeting wealthy South African business owners. Carte Blanche is investigating.
In 2025, gym membership prices in South Africa vary. Virgin Active offers Premier at R1,570/month and Club rates by location. Discounts available for Discovery Medical Aid and Momentum Premier members. The Gym Company in Durban and Gauteng offers White card at R199, Black card at R299, and Platinum card at R399 per month.
Cape Town’s appeal for semigration is waning due to rising costs and challenges, leading locals to seek homes elsewhere. CEO Rhys Dyer predicts a rebound in homeownership demand in Gauteng, fueled by interest rate cuts and economic improvements. The property market responded positively to rate cuts in October 2024, with expectations of increased demand in 2025. Western Cape’s semigration trend, especially to Cape Town, is expected to decline based on recent data.
Negotiators have reached a phased deal to end the Gaza war, with an initial six-week ceasefire and the release of hostages by both sides. The agreement includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces, release of prisoners, and Gaza’s reconstruction overseen by Egypt, Qatar, and the UN. The deal, brokered by Egyptian and Qatari mediators with US support, comes ahead of President-elect Trump’s inauguration.
A standoff in an abandoned South African mine in Stilfontein ended with 78 dead from likely starvation. Police confirmed the end of a rescue operation with no more survivors or bodies found. 246 emaciated survivors were rescued. Rights groups criticized the government for the delay in rescue efforts and cutting off essential supplies. Hundreds of illegal miners were trapped since September without food or water.
African countries are boosting military strength through training, advanced weaponry, and regional partnerships. Tanzania leads as the fastest-growing military power in Africa, ranking 9th globally. Egypt is Africa’s strongest military, ranked 19th globally, followed by Algeria and Nigeria in the region.
South Africa arrests over 100 miners trapped in an illegal gold mine, with more to follow. Despite warnings, officials proceed with detentions, citing criminal activity. Rescue operation ongoing, with over 100 dead and 106 rescued. Minister Mantashe defends arrests, stating no obligation to aid illegal activities.
Mines Rescue Services CEO Mannas Fourie vows to continue rescue operations at illegal mine in Stilfontein, North West. Over 132 illegal miners rescued, with six bodies retrieved and potentially 100 more underground. Pretoria High Court orders Minerals Council and government to share rescue costs.
