Top 20 Global Stories for December 5, 2025: A Comprehensive Daily News DigestYour essential roundup of yesterday's most critical stories spanning politics, technology, business, sports, entertainment, crime, health, and environmental developments from around the world. Headline-1: Putin Begins Historic State Visit to India Amid Global Tensions (National)Summary: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on December 5 for a pivotal two-day state visit, his first since the Ukraine war began. The bilateral meetings with PM Modi focus on strengthening defense ties, energy cooperation, and geopolitical alignment amid US sanctions and global power shifts. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi walk ahead of their talks in New Delhi, India, December 5, 2025. Sputnik/Alexander Kazakov/Pool via REUTERS Purchase Licensing Rights Detailed Explanation: Putin's arrival in New Delhi marks a significant moment in India-Russia relations as Moscow faces Western isolation. The visit centers on a wide spectrum of bilateral cooperation, including defense procurement (MiG-29, S-400 systems), trade expansion targeting $100 billion by 2030, and strategic coordination on global issues. PM Modi reiterated India's position as "on the side of peace," calling for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the Ukraine conflict. Putin assured India of "uninterrupted fuel supplies" despite US sanctions. Both nations are expected to sign agreements across defense, hi-tech aircraft, economy, space exploration, and artificial intelligence sectors. The summit reflects deepening India-Russia ties amid broader geopolitical realignment and demonstrates that Western efforts to isolate Russia have faced limited success. Source: Al Jazeera, The Guardian, India Today Headline-2: Cyclone Ditwah Triggers Sri Lanka's Worst Flooding in Two Decades (International)Summary: Cyclone Ditwah devastated Sri Lanka on November 28, triggering catastrophic flooding and landslides that have claimed over 479 lives with 350 still missing. More than 1.6 million people across all 25 districts have been affected, with over 452,700 residences damaged. Detailed Explanation: The cyclonic storm brought the most severe flooding Sri Lanka has experienced in over two decades. The hardest-hit districts include Colombo, Gampaha, Mannar, Trincomalee, and Kurunegala, which account for approximately 66% of those affected. By December 3, authorities had displaced 188,000 individuals to 1,374 government-operated emergency shelters. The disaster caused widespread infrastructure damage, with 95 roads rendered impassable and 20 bridges destroyed. Landslides in central hill country regions including Kandy, Badulla, and Matale have compounded the humanitarian crisis. Additional rainfall and the onset of Sri Lanka's second monsoon season pose ongoing threats of further flooding and landslides, hampering rescue operations and aid distribution. The cyclone later re-intensified in the Bay of Bengal before affecting the Indian coastline. Source: UN News, Relief Web, Al Jazeera Headline-3: RBI Cuts Repo Rate by 25 Basis Points to Boost Economy (National)Summary: The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee, led by Governor Sanjay Malhotra, reduced the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% on December 5. The decision comes as India posted record-low retail inflation of 0.25% and GDP growth of 8% in Q2 FY26. The three-day monetary policy committee (MPC) meeting of the x Detailed Explanation: The repo rate cut, anticipated by markets ahead of the December 6 MPC decision, reflects the RBI's confidence in inflation control and economic resilience. Real GDP growth projections for Q1 FY27 stand at 6.7% and Q2 FY27 at 6.8%, with risks assessed as evenly balanced. The decision provides stimulus to rate-sensitive sectors including banking, automobile, real estate, and financial services. The Indian equity market responded positively, with Nifty50 climbing past 26,100 and BSE Sensex approaching 85,500. The RBI's moves support India's economic expansion while managing inflation concerns in the context of global monetary policy shifts and ongoing discussions around US Federal Reserve rate cuts. Source: Business Standard, Times of India, NDTV Headline-4: India Considers Mandatory Always-On Location Tracking Despite Tech Giant Opposition (National)Summary: India's government is reviewing a controversial proposal to force smartphone makers to keep satellite-based location tracking permanently activated with no user option to disable it. Apple, Google, and Samsung have strongly opposed the measure, citing privacy concerns. PAJ GPS real time GPS Tracker with live location in USA paj-gps Detailed Explanation: The telecom industry proposal would require A-GPS (Assisted Global Positioning System) technology to remain continuously active on all smartphones sold in India, enabling tracking accurate to within one meter. This unprecedented surveillance measure has no equivalent anywhere globally. Apple, Google, and Samsung, represented through the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), argue that mandatory location tracking violates user privacy rights and lacks international precedent. The companies have submitted formal objections to New Delhi, emphasizing that transparency and user control should prioritize location services. Telecom advocates contend the measure would enhance law enforcement and national security capabilities, but tech giants warn it transforms smartphones into dedicated surveillance devices, particularly concerning given security risks to targeted individuals. The government is still deliberating on implementation following the failed Sanchar Saathi app mandate earlier this year. Source: 9to5Mac, Reuters, The Star, Engadget Headline-5: IndiGo Reduces Flight Operations Amid System Disruptions (National)Summary: India's largest airline IndiGo announced it will reduce flights starting December 8 and expects to fully restore stable operations by February 10, 2026. The DGCA is investigating widespread disruptions plaguing the carrier's flight operations. Airline IndiGo's operations to be restored by Feb 10, seeks reuters Detailed Explanation: IndiGo has cancelled over 500 flights from major hubs including Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad following unprecedented system disruptions. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) initiated a formal investigation into the operational issues. IndiGo's timeline suggests the carrier expects approximately two months to resolve technical and operational challenges. This disruption affects millions of passengers and represents one of the aviation sector's most significant operational crises in recent years. The airline's capacity reduction strategy aims to balance operations while maintaining service reliability. The incident has prompted regulatory scrutiny of IndiGo's operational infrastructure and contingency planning protocols across Indian aviation. Source: Indian Express, Multigyan, Business Standard Headline-6: Ex-DU Professor Hany Babu Granted Bail After 5 Years in Elgar Parishad Case (National)Summary: The Bombay High Court granted bail to former Delhi University associate professor Hany Babu on December 5 following his prolonged incarceration of over five years without trial in the high-profile Elgar Parishad case. New Bombay High Court building case: Supreme Court orders cnbctv18 Detailed Explanation: Justice granted to Hany Babu represents a significant development in the controversial Elgar Parishad matter. The High Court recognized the gross injustice of prolonged incarceration without conviction, citing the excessively lengthy trial timeline and lack of trial conclusion as grounds for bail. The case, originally filed following the Elgar Parishad gathering in Pune in December 2017, had ensnared numerous activists and intellectuals. Babu's bail highlights ongoing concerns about judicial delays and the impact of lengthy detention on accused individuals' fundamental rights. The decision potentially influences proceedings in similar cases and raises questions about investigative timelines in complex criminal matters. Babu's release comes amid broader debates about balancing national security concerns with individual constitutional protections. Source: Multigyan, Indian Express Headline-7: Congress Expels MLA Rahul Mamkootathil Over Sexual Assault Case (National)Summary: The Congress Party expelled suspended MLA Rahul Mamkootathil from primary membership following serious allegations and a registered sexual assault case against him, marking significant party action on misconduct allegations. Congress plans to shift to new party headquarter 'Indira economictimes Detailed Explanation: The expulsion represents Congress's response to mounting pressure regarding allegations against the Thiruvananthapuram legislator. The party's disciplinary action followed a series of complaints and the registration of a sexual assault case by authorities. The expulsion from primary membership prevents future party membership and effectively ends the legislator's political affiliation with Congress. The decision underscores the party's commitment to accountability and ethical standards among elected representatives. The case highlights broader discussions about addressing allegations against politicians and institutional mechanisms for addressing misconduct. Mamkootathil's expulsion exemplifies party responses to allegations of sexual misconduct by members. Source: Multigyan, Indian Express Headline-8: 18 Naxalites Killed in Bijapur Encounter, Toll Rises in Chhattisgarh Operation (National)Summary: Security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district killed 18 Naxalites following a significant gun battle with insurgent cadres, with authorities recovering six additional bodies on December 5, raising the total casualty count. Detailed Explanation: The Bijapur encounter represents one of the deadliest clashes between security forces and Naxalite operatives in recent operations. The gun battle resulted in substantial casualties on the Naxalite side, with authorities discovering six additional bodies beyond initially reported figures. The encounter occurred in the heavily forested Bijapur region, a known Naxalite stronghold. Security forces recovered weapons and materials from the scene, disrupting insurgent operations in the area. The operation reflects intensified counter-insurgency efforts in central India's mineral-rich regions affected by Left-Wing Extremism. The casualties represent a significant tactical success for security agencies in ongoing operations against Naxalite organizations operating across Chhattisgarh's remote districts. Source: Multigyan, Indian Media Headline-9: Gas Stoves Creating Dangerous Indoor Air Pollution, Stanford Study Warns (International)Summary: Stanford University researchers discovered that gas stoves expose millions of Americans to hazardous nitrogen dioxide levels, often exceeding outdoor pollution standards, even during routine cooking. Gas stoves generate pollution that is a potential health vox Detailed Explanation: The groundbreaking Stanford study reveals that nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions from gas stoves frequently match or exceed outdoor air pollution standards set by environmental regulators. For millions of Americans, particularly those in smaller homes or with inadequate ventilation, cooking alone pushes NO2 exposure above long-term safety thresholds. Researchers tested homes across varying sizes and ventilation conditions, finding consistent dangers regardless of household characteristics. The findings challenge long-standing assumptions about gas stove safety and indoor air quality. Public health implications suggest millions face unrecognized respiratory risks from routine cooking activities. The research provides scientific basis for policy discussions regarding gas appliance regulation, ventilation requirements, and consumer awareness. Environmental health experts emphasize the need for improved kitchen ventilation systems and potential regulatory frameworks addressing gas stove emissions. Source: Science Daily, Health News Headline-10: Measles-Free Status at Risk as US Vaccination Rates Decline (International)Summary: The United States faces potential loss of its measles-free status in 2026 if vaccination rates continue declining, threatening to return the country to an era of common outbreaks with severe health consequences. Measles vaccine - Wikipedia wikipedia Detailed Explanation: Public health officials warn that erosion of measles immunity in the US population could trigger regular outbreaks within months, reversing decades of disease control achievements. Loss of measles-free status would increase hospitalizations of children with the preventable disease, potentially causing hearing loss and deaths. The scenario reflects broader vaccine confidence challenges and organized anti-vaccination movements. A new study estimates that each small outbreak costs approximately $244,000 in public health response. The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices faces pressure regarding vaccination recommendations, with controversy surrounding the committee's independence and scientific integrity. Immunization experts emphasize that measles prevention depends on maintaining high population immunity levels through sustained vaccination programs. The situation highlights tensions between public health requirements and vaccine confidence dynamics in contemporary America. Source: KFF Health News, CDC News Headline-11: Ranveer Singh's 'Dhurandhar' Triumphs at Box Office with Audience Praise (National)Summary: Ranveer Singh's action-drama 'Dhurandhar,' directed by Aditya Dhar, dominated the box office on its December 5 release, earning widespread critical acclaim and audience appreciation for its epic storytelling and performances. Dhurandhar (2025) - IMDb imdb Detailed Explanation: 'Dhurandhar' captivated audiences with its ambitious narrative drawn from real-life events, receiving an impressive CBFC certificate that indicated the film's high-stakes dramatic content. The movie's release generated significant momentum following Deepika Padukone's public promotion of the film's poster, amplifying pre-release buzz. Ranveer Singh's powerful screen presence and the film's elaborate action sequences resonated strongly with viewers. Director Aditya Dhar's vision of combining epic storytelling with contemporary relevance particularly attracted young audiences. Actor Agastya Nanda highlighted the film's social relevance and responsibility to inspire viewers. The box office performance demonstrates continued audience appetite for large-scale Hindi cinema productions addressing meaningful subjects. 'Dhurandhar' competes favorably against other December releases, establishing itself as a significant commercial success. Source: Times of India Entertainment Headline-12: Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, 'Mortal Kombat' Legend, Passes Away at 84 (International)Summary: Veteran actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Shang Tsung in 'Mortal Kombat,' passed away on December 4 in Santa Barbara, California, at age 84 following stroke complications. Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa dead: 'Mortal Kombat' star was 75 ew Detailed Explanation: Tagawa's death marks the loss of a transformative figure in action cinema and video game adaptations. His career spanned decades, beginning with memorable roles in prestigious films including 'The Last Emperor' (1987). However, his portrayal of the mystical villain Shang Tsung in the 'Mortal Kombat' franchise created an indelible cultural impact, defining video-game villain representation for 1990s action cinema. Tagawa's distinctive performance style and commanding screen presence influenced generations of action and fantasy entertainment professionals. Fellow actors and industry figures have paid extensive tributes to his legacy, acknowledging his contributions to diversifying representation in Hollywood action productions. His passing represents the loss of a pioneering actor who bridged Asian cinema with mainstream Hollywood action franchises during transformative decades of entertainment industry evolution. Source: Times of India Entertainment Headline-13: 'Akhanda 2' Release Postponed Indefinitely Due to Technical Issues (National)Summary: The much-anticipated Telugu film 'Akhanda 2: Thandavam' starring Nandamuri Balakrishna had its December 5 release postponed indefinitely following last-minute cancellation of premiere shows attributed to "technical issues." Akhanda 2 - Thaandavam (2025) - IMDb imdb Detailed Explanation: The sequel to the successful 'Akhanda' franchise experienced an unexpected setback just before its theatrical release. Authorities cancelled premiere show performances across theaters, citing unspecified technical complications requiring extended resolution time. The indefinite postponement frustrated audiences anticipating the film's release following months of promotional build-up. Early reviews on December 4 had praised Balakrishna's powerful screen presence and dramatic mass-action sequences, generating excitement for the film's theatrical debut. The postponement suggests either production-related completion issues, distribution complications, or other unforeseen circumstances requiring resolution before theatrical exhibition. The delay represents significant financial implications for distributors, exhibitors, and production teams. The film's eventual release date remains uncertain pending resolution of underlying technical matters requiring extended timelines. Source: Times of India Entertainment Headline-14: England Cricket Legends Joe Root Scores Century in Ashes Battle with Australia (International)Summary: English batter Joe Root scored his first century in Australia, delivering a stunning performance on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test match. England reached 325/9 at stumps in Brisbane, revitalizing their Test campaign against Australia's leading position. Detailed Explanation: Root's century represents a crucial turning point in the Ashes series, with Australia holding a 1-0 advantage heading into the Brisbane Test. The England opener's performance under pressure conditions in Australian conditions demonstrates renewed confidence and form after earlier struggles. His century came during a match situation where England faced significant challenges, stabilizing the batting order and providing a foundation for competitive cricket. The Brisbane Test venue, known for favoring faster bowling and harder pitches, made Root's performance particularly significant. His aggressive batting approach contrasted with earlier defensive phases, indicating evolving strategy in the series. The century revitalized England's Test campaign and provided momentum for future matches in the series, establishing Root as a key figure in England's Ashes prospects. Source: ESPN, Sports Headlines Headline-15: Australia vs England Ashes Cricket Series Continues with Intense Competition (International)Summary: The Ashes cricket series between Australia and England entered its second Test in Brisbane, with England facing significant pressure following Australia's first-Test victory. The series represents the traditional rivalry's latest chapter. Detailed Explanation: The Ashes series, contested between England and Australia since 1882, continues as one of cricket's greatest rivalries. Australia's first-Test victory positioned them favorably entering the Brisbane encounter. England's response through Joe Root's century indicates determination to equalize the series standing. The Brisbane Test, traditionally a challenging venue for touring teams, adds complexity to England's tactical considerations. Both teams feature experienced players balancing young talent development with match-winning performances. The series occurs during international cricket calendar transitions affecting team preparations and player availability. Broader cricket narratives include India's T20I squad selection changes and injury management across multiple formats, reflecting cricket's demanding schedule requirements. Source: ESPN, Sports News Headline-16: Apple and Google Send Cyber Threat Notifications to Users in 84 Countries (International)Summary: Apple issued new cyber threat notifications to users across 84 countries on December 5, warning of targeted surveillance threats. Google similarly distributed security alerts, marking coordinated efforts against sophisticated cyber threats. In just three months, Google sent 12k warnings about zdnet Detailed Explanation: The coordinated notification campaigns represent major technology platforms' responses to identified targeted surveillance operations against users globally. Apple's security notifications reached 84 countries, indicating widespread threat detection across diverse geographic regions and user demographics. Google's synchronized alerts suggest common threat indicators and potentially linked threat actors. The notifications follow recent revelations about Chinese-linked "Brickstorm" malware campaigns penetrating government and IT service networks in North America. These surveillance threats target high-profile individuals, including political figures, activists, and security officials. The notification campaigns reflect technology platforms' commitment to user protection and transparency regarding security threats. Industry analysts emphasize that sophisticated state-sponsored surveillance operations increasingly target democratic institutions and civil society organizations. The security alerts underline ongoing technological arms races between security professionals and advanced threat actors. Source: Reuters Technology, Apple Security Alerts Headline-17: EU Launches Antitrust Investigation into Meta's WhatsApp AI Policies (International)Summary: The European Union initiated a formal antitrust probe into Meta's WhatsApp AI strategy on December 5, questioning whether the company's upcoming policy changes unfairly block rival AI assistants and violate fair competition principles. Meta faces Europe antitrust investigation over WhatsApp AI cnbc Detailed Explanation: The EU's investigation targets Meta's potential use of platform dominance to exclude competing AI services from WhatsApp integration. Regulators question whether policy changes constitute anti-competitive conduct violating EU competition law. The probe reflects broader European regulatory scrutiny of major technology platforms' market power and fairness practices. Meta's WhatsApp, with billions of global users, represents significant market influence in messaging and communications infrastructure. The investigation contributes to ongoing regulatory patterns where the EU challenges technology giants' market conduct through antitrust mechanisms. Other simultaneous investigations into Meta, Google, and Amazon demonstrate coordinated regulatory enforcement across multiple technology sectors. The WhatsApp AI investigation represents escalating regulatory pressure on technology platforms' integration strategies and competitive practices. Source: Tech Startups News, Tech Radar News 18Headline: Moore Threads IPO Rockets 425% in Shanghai Trading Debut (International) Summary: Chinese AI chipmaker Moore Threads surged approximately 425% during its Shanghai stock exchange debut on December 5, raising roughly $1.13 billion in one of China's largest first-day jumps since 2019 IPO reforms. Moore Threads' IPO frenzy energises China's home-grown GPU scmp Detailed Explanation: Moore Threads' extraordinary first-day performance demonstrates robust investor appetite for Chinese artificial intelligence semiconductor alternatives to Nvidia. The company designs GPUs and AI accelerators for gaming, data centers, and industrial applications, positioning itself as a homegrown technology solution amid US export restrictions. The 425% first-day surge ranks among China's most spectacular IPO debuts following regulatory reforms, indicating strong market confidence in domestic AI chip development. The valuation surge reflects investor enthusiasm for China's technology independence strategy and decoupling initiatives from American semiconductor dominance. However, industry observers caution about potential AI investment bubble dynamics, given rapid valuations growth without corresponding established revenues. Moore Threads' success encourages additional Chinese chipmaker IPO preparations and venture capital investment in competing technologies. The performance signals Chinese capital markets' prioritization of semiconductor self-sufficiency and AI infrastructure development. Source: Bloomberg, Tech Startups News Headline-19: Baidu's Kunlunxin AI Chip Unit Targets Hong Kong IPO at $3 Billion Valuation (International)Summary: Kunlunxin, the AI chip division of Chinese search giant Baidu, is preparing a Hong Kong IPO following a fresh funding round valuing the unit at approximately $3 billion (21 billion yuan). Baidu's Kunlunxin Targets Hong Kong IPO at nearly $3 billion meyka Detailed Explanation: Kunlunxin's IPO preparation reflects China's broader push toward semiconductor self-sufficiency amid escalating US export restrictions on advanced AI chips. The unit designs AI accelerators used in Baidu's internal data centers and for external customers, establishing it as a viable domestic Nvidia alternative. The IPO valuation indicates investor confidence in Chinese AI chip companies despite global competition and technological challenges. Kunlunxin's Hong Kong listing will provide market barometer readings on investor valuations of Chinese "Nvidia alternatives" and broader technology decoupling strategies. The unit benefits from Baidu's massive data resources and cloud computing infrastructure, providing competitive advantages in AI workload optimization. Kunlunxin's development trajectory parallels broader Chinese technology strategies emphasizing domestic innovation and reduced dependence on American semiconductor manufacturers and design tools. Source: Reuters Technology, Tech Startups News Headline-20: Trump Administration Suspends Immigration Applications from 19 Nations (International)Summary: The Trump administration announced suspension of immigration applications from 19 countries on December 5, continuing heightened immigration restrictions. The policy follows a Washington D.C. National Guard shooting and reflects intensified border security measures. Trump's New Immigration Ban: An Arbitrary, Discriminatory cato Detailed Explanation: The immigration application suspensions target specific nations, reflecting the administration's comprehensive approach to border control and security concerns. The announcement follows a shooting incident involving a National Guard member in Washington D.C., though direct causality relationships remain unclear. The suspensions represent continuation of previous immigration restrictions and expanded vetting procedures, including enhanced scrutiny of H-1B visa applicants for potential involvement in "free speech censorship" activities. The policy affects multiple stakeholder groups including technology companies, international students, and humanitarian migration seekers. Critics argue the suspensions create administrative burdens and discriminatory effects, while administration officials emphasize national security justifications. The immigration policy positions feature prominently in broader Trump administration discussions regarding border security, economic immigration, and international relations with affected nations. Source: NPR News Roundup, Democracy Now ConclusionDecember 5, 2025, witnessed pivotal developments reshaping global geopolitical alignments, technological governance, economic policies, and humanitarian crises. Putin's India visit strengthens non-Western alliances amid Western isolation efforts, while Cyclone Ditwah's devastating impact in Sri Lanka demands urgent humanitarian coordination. India's economic stimulus through RBI rate cuts contrasts sharply with its controversial surveillance technology proposals opposed by global tech leaders. The entertainment sector celebrated film industry successes alongside mourning iconic figures, while security threats and regulatory investigations highlight ongoing tensions between technology innovation and governance frameworks. These stories collectively illustrate a world navigating unprecedented challenges in digital privacy, geopolitical realignment, climate adaptation, and technological transformation.