NetflixWhen an era concludes, the natural impulse is to reminisce. This is particularly true for television, and rightly so: viewers want to consider how their beloved characters have evolved, the obstacles they've conquered, and the bonds they've created. This explains the frequent use of flashbacks in a series finale — but *Stranger Things* seizes that convention and stretches it to an extreme.As Netflix's undisputed flagship series, Stranger Things was destined for a monumental send-off. It's a primary revenue source for the streamer and a cornerstone franchise for a whole generation of audiences. However, the last season felt excessively inflated from the start. Creators Matt and Ross Duffer characterized Season 5 more as a "" than a traditional TV season. Their plan to divide it into three "volumes" also followed one of Netflix's most annoying release patterns. The more the Duffers discussed their vision, the more they appeared overwhelmed by their own grand ambitions. While the season opened powerfully, it ultimately squandered years of accumulated goodwill, offering insufficient resolutions to nearly a decade of mysteries — or any genuinely daring plot turns — opting instead for monotonous trips into the past.Spoilers ahead for Stranger Things Season 5 Episode 8.The Stranger Things finale was way too focused on the past than the future. | NetflixStranger Things Season 5 resembled one extended, aggravating flashback more than a proper finale. A handful of callbacks highlighting the characters' journeys — like Mike (Finn Wolfhard) first encountering Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) or Max (Sadie Sink) initially defeating Vecna — are appreciated, especially with the long gaps between seasons. Yet the Duffers don't primarily use these reflective moments for closure; instead, they largely inflate a finale that is already unjustifiably long.The final episode of this season runs slightly over two hours, an excessive length for a show that has been testing limits since Season 4. Stranger Things epitomizes streaming bloat: the series would have greatly benefited from tighter, less self-indulgent writing, but the Duffers exploit the freedom they have. Without the constraints of network television, pacing issues easily arise. In Season 5, these flaws are glaring — and even more noticeable because they are repeatedly interrupted by yet another unnecessary flashback.It's understandable that Stranger Things would strive to deliver a finale that rewards its fans. Viewers have dedicated considerable time to the show, so many don't object to a season of 90-minute episodes (some even prefer it). The Duffers and their writing team have tried to compromise, crafting numerous poignant farewells between characters such as Mike and El, El and her surrogate father Hopper (David Harbour), and the group of clever teenagers.After five seasons of boundary pushing, Stranger Things ended things by playing it safe. | NetflixThe high stakes help justify some reflection, as the characters face a potential suicide mission against (a wormhole to another dimension, inexplicably). So, when Hopper directly asks if she intends to sacrifice herself, Eleven naturally recalls her years with him, learning about being a daughter. Will's coming out moment logically prompts a montage of friendship memories. The issue, beyond the numbing repetitiveness, is that Stranger Things fails to apply similar focus to what comes next.Despite a 40-minute epilogue, the Stranger Things finale is far too eager to overlook unresolved plot points in favor of self-congratulatory nostalgia. The ending is overly cautious: aside from Vecna, only unambiguously dies — though Steve Harrington (Joe Keery) gets yet another fake-out death! Its other, most obvious failing is a complete lack of interest in addressing the series' major questions. How did the Hawkins group escape Dr. Kay (Linda Hamilton) after being captured? How did Hopper seamlessly resume his old life after being presumed dead in the Battle of Starcourt? How did Max graduate with her class following a two-year coma? Is Eleven actually alive after her apparent sacrifice to the Upside Down? Critical answers are left off-screen, yet there's . This may be the most egregious case of the Finale Flashback trend, and a profoundly disappointing way to conclude such an expansive story.Stranger Things is now streaming on Netflix.
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PlayStation Plus Just Added One of the Greatest Base-Building Survival Games Ever
Fireshine GamesThere are countless survival games worth trying, but the freedom they provide to explore can sometimes leave players feeling unsure of their next move. This month, one of the top survival titles in recent years joins PlayStation Plus—featuring a distinct underground setting that brings much-needed structure to its open-world exploration.Following a stint in Steam Early Access, Core Keeper officially launched in August 2024—and even then, it stood out as one of the finest base-building games available. The game begins with your character (or characters, if you opt for its excellent co-op mode) being whisked away to a vast underground world with no path back to the surface. To advance, you must tunnel through cavern walls, uncovering abundant treasures and exploring various biomes—each topped with a boss that holds clues to the underground’s secrets.Boss fights in Core Keeper give players tough objectives to work toward. | Fireshine GamesCore Keeper was already a must-play when it launched, and it’s only grown more engaging in the months since. Over the year and a half following its official release, developer Pugstorm has polished nearly every facet of the game via regular patches, while major updates have introduced even more content: new biomes, additional bosses, combat-assisting pets, an upgraded inventory system, explosive weapons, and seasonal events.While these updates have been fantastic, they’d be meaningless if the base game wasn’t already enjoyable. Luckily, Core Keeper is a standout in its genre. Unlike many games, there are no predefined paths—everywhere you go requires tunneling through stone to carve your own way. The caverns are dotted with fertile clearings, ancient ruins, and unexpected surprises, which often hide enemies or even a handful of friendly creatures. Each discovery feels authentic, as you can only find them by choosing a direction and trusting your gut.In other games, this level of freedom might feel directionless, but Core Keeper masterfully balances openness with structure. Right at the start of your journey, you’ll find a shrine that asks you to return an unknown artifact—giving you a cryptic goal to pursue from the get-go. As you explore further, you’ll encounter bosses, each carrying items essential for your continued exploration. Chances are you won’t defeat them on your first try, so they act as both a roadmap for progress and a target to build your character up to.Even underground, Core Keeper offers ample space for managing a farm. | Fireshine GamesThe sense of character progression in Core Keeper is equally impressive. You begin with basic wooden tools, but it doesn’t take long to find better materials and more powerful gear. The game offers a surprising degree of customization for your character: you can choose weapons that specialize in melee, ranged, or magic attacks, or even summon minions to fight alongside you. A single new piece of equipment can completely alter your playstyle, and collecting full gear sets adds another layer of challenge to work toward.Shortly after Core Keeper’s arrival on PS Plus, it’s set to get another big update called Void and Voltage. This update will introduce exciting new gear (including a flamethrower), along with mechanical monsters and an eerie new biome outside the current map’s boundaries. This makes now the perfect time to dive into Core Keeper if you haven’t already—start building your underground base and get ready for the upcoming challenges.Core Keeper is currently available on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
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Two Decades Ago, A Divisive Thriller Kicked Off A New Era of Extreme Hollywood Horror
Hostel Llc/Lions Gate/Kobal/ShutterstockIt’s a time-honored saying that audiences enjoy being disgusted. Viewers have relished being frightened for as long as art has existed, and cinema has pushed the boundaries of human terror to their utmost limits. But ? Is there a threshold to what viewers will tolerate, or does our unquenchable hunger to witness ever more intense horrors mean there will always be an audience for the most extreme things imaginable? That’s definitely the mindset of Eli Roth, and the film he made two decades ago that ushered in a new era of Hollywood horror.Following a discussion with Harry Knowles () about searching for "the most twisted thing [someone] could find online," plus an alleged "murder vacation" website on the dark web, Roth resolved to create an unrestrained gore-fest that amplified the gruesomeness he achieved in his flesh-rotting debut, Cabin Fever. The result was Hostel, and it absolutely delivered on his bloody mission.The movie tracks two American college students on their backpacking journey through Europe. A clearly shady man persuades them to visit a hostel near Bratislava, Slovakia, with the lure of endless attractive women and casual, commitment-free sex. As it turns out, they’ve stumbled into a dark underground world where wealthy, bored individuals pay to torture and disfigure others. Enter the slicing, dicing, chainsaws, and blowtorches.Hostel isn’t for those with delicate constitutions. Its details are so vivid they’re agonizing, with precise, surgical-like vivisections of screaming captives whose only offense is being in the wrong spot at the wrong moment. Though the obnoxious American characters enduring suffering are just unlikable enough to make viewers not root for them, their torture isn’t a form of revenge or emotional release for the audience. It could be anyone getting torn apart, and Roth would still be thoroughly enjoying himself while making it. There are deeper themes to unpack here: some critics interpret Hostel as a commentary on Bush-era American naivety and a satire of contemporary consumerism — yet it’s just as easy to see it as shallow as a pool of blood. The violence is the core point, and Roth wants audiences to revel in the voyeuristic excitement of watching something they shouldn’t.Gore-nography, or torture porn, didn’t start with Hostel, of course. Beyond Hollywood, Asian directors like Park Chan-wook, Takashi Miike (who has a cameo in the film), and Kinji Fukasaku were earning both praise and infamy for their boundary-breaking take on cinematic violence. Hostel bears clear influences from Audition and Oldboy, as well as the works of David Cronenberg and George Romero. Hostel also hit theaters the year after Saw, which split critics with its extreme violence but gained a huge following of horror enthusiasts. Even so, Roth’s film was perceived differently; its graphic, almost gleeful focus on human suffering was deemed “a step too far” by many.In fact, Hostel is what brought the term “torture porn” into mainstream pop culture. A critic drew parallels between it and other ultra-gory horror films of the era, such as The Devil’s Rejects, Saw, and Wolf Creek, asking why "America is so obsessed with torture these days." He directly likened the subgenre’s "forensic fetishism" to adult films in how it’s executed. For the genre’s evolution, the gore in Hostel is shockingly realistic — a stark contrast to the era of where charmingly DIY special effects gave viewers emotional separation from the slasher-style violence. Even if you know technically how the kill scenes are done, watching Hostel makes you flinch at the authenticity of Roth’s spectacle.Hostel inspired a brief rise in “torture porn” movies, before they retreated back into the margins. | Hostel Llc/Lions Gate/Kobal/ShutterstockUnsurprisingly, Hostel sparked controversy. Numerous critics dismissed it as cruel and narrow-minded. Slovakian Parliament members criticized the film for its offensive depiction of their nation. Yet it grossed $82 million on a $4.8 million budget and spawned two sequels — a clear sign that audiences craved this kind of content. There was real demand for this level of extreme horror, where violence is, let’s face it, presented as cool. For a time, gore-nography and torture porn were reliable commercial hits, but their popularity faded quickly. Even the most graphic violence (like flaying) can grow tedious for viewers after some time.Gore-nography is a horror subgenre that unexpectedly found mainstream success thanks to films like Hostel, but it’s not shocking that it retreated to the fringes after a few years, where it’s now enjoyed by die-hard fans and mostly overlooked by casual viewers seeking milder thrills. Exceptions exist, like the rising fame of the Terrifier series, the ending of Weapons, and the . The Substance used hardcore body horror in a gritty, satirical way to critique unrealistic beauty standards, while Julia Ducournau’s cannibal film Raw made audiences nauseous. Still, mainstream Hollywood horror has leaned heavily toward PG-13 in recent years, partly because these films appeal to broader audiences and generate more revenue (think about how a hard-R Five Nights at Freddy’s would fare). That said, it’s likely that Roth-style ultra-violence will make a more prominent comeback on our screens. After all, humanity’s shared morbid curiosity is something you can always count on.Hostel is available for rental on all digital platforms.
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Senior Canadian officials to visit Greenland amid global concerns as Trump focuses on NATO-linked territory
Nations worldwide are expressing their worries as the President seems to be setting his sights on Greenland, citing what he claims are U.S. national security interests. Amid the growing controversy, two senior Canadian officials are said to be planning a trip to Greenland — with a potential embassy opening there on the agenda.Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Governor General Mary Simon, who has Inuk heritage, are anticipated to visit Greenland in early February, per [source]. Simon, who became Canada’s first Indigenous governor general — the representative of Britain’s King Charles as head of state — in 2021, previously served as Canada’s ambassador to Denmark.This visit coincides with Canada's plans to establish a consulate in Greenland."The future of Greenland and Denmark is determined exclusively by the people of Denmark," the Prime Minister stated during a meeting with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at Canada’s embassy in Paris, as reported by the AP. The two leaders were in France for a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, which centered on Ukraine.Frederiksen commended Carney and expressed faith in NATO's capacity to uphold security in the Arctic region."Your statements have been very clear regarding respect for national sovereignty," Frederiksen told Carney. "We both aim to secure the Arctic region, and alongside all our NATO allies, we can safeguard it—hopefully, everyone is ready to collaborate."Trump recently stirred attention by reiterating his call for the U.S. to [action], which he claims would be a critical component of U.S. security."We require Greenland for national security reasons," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. "Currently, Greenland is surrounded by Russian and Chinese ships everywhere. We need Greenland from a national security perspective, and Denmark won't be capable of handling it."White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller maintained on Monday that no one would resist U.S. military action in Greenland. He told CNN's Jake Tapper, "No one will engage in military conflict with the United States over Greenland's future," [source].These comments sparked anger among leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the U.K., who joined Frederiksen in defending Greenland's sovereignty. Greenland is an Inuit self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Efforts to intervene in the dispute follow Trump's remarks about making it the 51st state.A joint statement from Frederiksen, French President [name], German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared, "Greenland belongs to its people.""Matters pertaining to Denmark and Greenland are to be decided by Denmark and Greenland alone," the statement noted.Anand and Simon's offices did not immediately reply to [Digital]'s request for comment.
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Activists say Iran protesters are emboldened by Trump admin’s Persian messaging after inaction by Obama-Biden
The [entity] has increased its criticism of Iran's regime on its Persian-language account since the start of nationwide protests against the Ayatollahs in Tehran, echoing President Trump's strong warning to Tehran.Trump recently posted, "If Iran shoots (sic) and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue. We are [phrase missing] to go. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP.""President Trump's latest Truth Social post regarding Iran says it all," a U.S. State Department spokesperson told [organization name] Digital on Tuesday.The State Department's reinforcement of Trump's promise to assist Iranian demonstrators comes as reports indicate that protesters took control of many streets in Abdanan, in Ilam province in [country missing], on Tuesday. They chanted "Death to Khamenei" and "This year is a year of blood, Seyed Ali (Khamenei) will be overthrown," according to videos sent to Iran International news organization.The U.S. [entity], @USABehFarsi, seemed to issue a blunt warning to Iran's totalitarian rulers. "President Trump is a man of action. If you didn't know before, now you do. Don't mess with President Trump." The black and white picture showed Trump with his leadership team watching elite U.S. army forces seize the former Iran-backed Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro.Trump's social media posts and the statements from the State Department's account have emboldened Iranians both inside and outside the country.Potkin Azarmehr, a British-Iranian journalist, noted the difference from previous administrations. "Well, what a contrast to Obama's time when protesters in Iran in 2009 were angrily chanting, 'Obama, are you with us or with them?' Any international support, whether at the grassroots or government level, is encouraging. Knowing that the world knows about you," he added, "The question is where are the Western activist elite protesters? Why aren't they protesting? Are they on the side of the Ayatollahs? An archaic religious apartheid?"Iran analyst, Alirzeza Nader, said, "I think the State is right to say that the alternative to the current regime will come from within Iran. And that Iranians will choose their own leaders. Yes, it's definitely better now. Unfortunately, the Obama and Biden administrations pushed the reformist line (the Reformist line espoused by Rouhani and Khatami). My advice to the Trump administration: stay neutral regarding the opposition's leadership. Let Iranians figure it out."The former Iranian presidents, Hassan Rouhani and Mohammad Khatami, promised minor reforms but remain committed to the Islamic Republic of Iran — a regime that has been repeatedly designated by the State Department as a major state-sponsor of terrorism.Nadav Mohebb, who worked as a Persian media analyst for the State Department's Public Affairs Bureau, said about the State Department's Persian-language X account that "During the Biden administration, this account was effectively turned into a ghost town and largely lost its relevance and impact."He said that, "Following President Trump's recent tweet, we have seen a renewed level of activity similar to his first term — an approach that has once again drawn the attention of Iranians. Trump's message effectively removed the account's excessive caution, and over the past four days its anti-regime tone has明显增强."Mohebb said that "The account should avoid getting involved in opposition infighting, remain sensitive to Iranian public sentiment, and operate in line with the prevailing mood of Persian Twitter. I hope Trump's warning message to the regime will serve as a catalyst for improving the messaging strategy of this account and restoring its former effectiveness."Reza Parchizadeh, an Iranian-American expert on the regime, said, "The State Department's Persian-language account is performing effectively. Its messaging is deliberately structured to project a sense of American support and hope towards Iranian protesters, while also trying to reflect the breadth and diversity of protest activity rather than treating it episodically or selectively. In itself, this represents a significant shift in approach."He noted that, "The Obama era was fundamentally different in orientation and intent. That administration prioritized reaching a diplomatic accommodation with the Islamic Republic and reintegrating the regime into the international system. Within that framework, popular protests and organized opposition inside Iran were largely downplayed by the State Department to avoid complicating negotiations or signaling regime vulnerability." It should be noted that there are some parts in the original text that seem to be incomplete or unclear (such as "[entity]", "[organization name]", "[country missing]", "[phrase missing]", "明显增强" which is in Chinese), and I have tried my best to make sense of and rephrase the text based on the overall context.
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Israel and Syria Resume Diplomatic Dialogue Following Months of Silence Under U.S. Mediation
On Tuesday, the United States, Israel, and Syria announced that senior Israeli and Syrian officials had met in Paris under U.S. sponsorship, marking a fresh diplomatic effort that includes plans for tighter security coordination and possible economic collaboration.A joint statement issued by the three governments characterized the talks as part of the President’s broader vision for advancing peace in the Middle East. The discussions centered on respect for Syria’s sovereignty and stability, Israel’s security, and prosperity for both nations.Per the statement, Israel and Syria reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing long-term security and stability arrangements and agreed to establish a joint fusion mechanism—described as a dedicated communication cell. This mechanism is designed to facilitate ongoing coordination on intelligence sharing, military de-escalation, diplomatic engagement, and commercial opportunities, overseen by the United States."The United States commends these positive steps and remains committed to supporting the implementation of these understandings as part of broader efforts to achieve enduring peace in the Middle East. When sovereign nations cooperate in a respectful and productive way, prosperity will be unleashed. This joint statement reflects the spirit of today’s successful meeting and the sides’ determination to turn a new page in their relations for the benefit of future generations," the statement concluded.In a separate statement, Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office emphasized the need to ensure the security of its citizens, prevent threats along its borders, promote regional stability, and advance economic cooperation for the benefit of both countries. The sides also agreed to continue the dialogue while safeguarding the security of Syria’s Druze minority.The announcements follow U.S.-mediated talks held in Paris that focused primarily on security arrangements along the Israeli-Syrian border. The talks were aimed at easing tensions and reviving elements of the [agreement]—which established a U.N.-monitored buffer zone between the two countries. A Syrian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Damascus is seeking the reactivation of the 1974 agreement and a withdrawal of Israeli forces to positions held before December 2024. The official described Syria’s position as centered on restoring sovereignty and preventing further escalation. A French diplomat also confirmed to the AP that the Paris talks took place under U.S. mediation, with French diplomatic involvement.While the Paris discussions were publicly framed as security-focused, Israeli Channel 12 News reported that the Trump administration has also put forward an American proposal for [an initiative], potentially signaling a broader diplomatic agenda.According to the reporting, the proposal envisions a [zone] along the existing demilitarized strip—which would remain demilitarized. The zone would include energy infrastructure such as wind power facilities, a crude oil pipeline, data centers, and pharmaceutical manufacturing plants. The plan also includes the development of a ski resort.The proposal could generate an estimated $4 billion in GDP growth for Syria—roughly 20% of its current output—along with an 800-megawatt increase in power capacity, 15,000 new jobs, and a 40% reduction in pharmaceutical dependency. Under the plan, Israel would gain the opportunity to transform a buffer zone into a "[peace corridor]," potentially reducing long-term military spending along its northern border.Israeli and U.S. officials have not publicly confirmed the details of the proposed economic zone, and the Prime Minister’s Office statement did not reference specific economic projects.The renewed talks followed an understanding reached last week during a meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu in Florida. According to a Channel 12 report, the United States proposed establishing a joint American-Israeli-Syrian operations room in Amman, Jordan, aimed at managing security in southern Syria and serving as a framework for negotiations on demilitarization and a potential Israeli troop withdrawal from areas seized after the collapse of the Assad regime.
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Following Maduro, Venezuela’s Power Vacuum Unveils Brutal Insiders and Enforcers
As Venezuela stands, former officials and regional experts caution that the nation may not be undergoing a democratic transition but rather a period of heightened instability and internal conflict among potential successors, with some warning it could be more dire than Maduro’s rule.Marshall Billingslea, the former assistant secretary for terrorist financing and financial crimes in the U.S. Treasury Department, stated that Maduro’s removal has laid bare a fragmented system that was never held together by a single strongman, but by competing criminal power centers now operating independently."The cartel has always been a loose alliance, with each mafia boss having their own centers of influence," Billingslea said. "Maduro was the frontman, but he didn’t exert total control. Now we’re seeing each of those centers branching out on their own."Billingslea noted that Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores, was as significant as Maduro’s removal itself."The capture of Cilia Flores is particularly momentous because she was the mastermind behind the operations and the one who eliminated potential rivals," he said. "Her removal is equally consequential."Billingslea outlined what he described as five competing power centers, four within the regime and one outside it. "The removal of Maduro, and especially the removal of Cilia Flores, has created a massive power vacuum in the cartel," he said. "We haven’t achieved a new balance yet."In the interim, he foresees a high risk of internal power struggles, violence, and further repression as rival factions vie for control in post-Maduro Venezuela. But he points out that the Trump administration anticipates this and is implementing a clear-sighted strategy to first secure U.S. core interests, followed by the gradual restoration of democracy, all without requiring American "boots on the ground."Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s long-time vice president, was swiftly elevated. However, her ascension has done little to reassure Venezuelans or international observers that substantial change is on the horizon.Rodríguez is deeply entrenched in the Maduro system and has long played a central role in overseeing Venezuela’s internal intelligence and security apparatus. According to regional reports, her focus since taking office has been on consolidating control within these institutions rather than signaling political reform.Former U.S. and regional officials contend that Delcy Rodríguez’s rise has revived long-standing questions about who truly influences her decisions as she moves to consolidate power.Those officials highlight Rodríguez’s deep ties with Cuban operatives, which aided in building and operating Venezuela’s internal security and surveillance apparatus over the past two decades. Cuban operatives played a pivotal role in shaping how the regime monitored dissent and protected senior leadership, embedding themselves within Venezuela’s intelligence services.At the same time, former officials say Rodríguez appears to be testing cooperation with Washington, creating uncertainty about the extent of leverage the United States actually has. Some view her limited engagement with U.S. demands as tactical, aimed at buying time while she works to secure loyalty within the regime and neutralize rival factions.A former Venezuelan official previously asserted that Rodríguez "hates the West" and represents continuity with the Maduro regime, not a break from it.Diosdado Cabello, one of the country’s most feared figures, has emerged as a central player in the .Cabello, who wields influence over the ruling party and interior security, has been rallying armed colectivos and loyalist groups. These groups have been active in the streets, detaining opponents and reinforcing regime authority through intimidation.Sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury for corruption and alleged ties to drug-trafficking networks, Diosdado Cabello is seen as a figure capable of consolidating power through force rather than institutions.Jorge Rodríguez, president of the National Assembly and brother of Delcy Rodríguez, remains one of the regime’s most important political operators.Rodríguez has served as a key strategist for Maduro, overseeing communications, elections, and internal coordination. Recent reports indicate he continues to work closely with his sister to maintain control over intelligence and security structures, bolstering the regime’s grip despite Maduro’s removal.Experts say Rodríguez could play a central role in shaping any managed transition that preserves the system Maduro constructed.Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, long regarded as the backbone of Maduro’s survival, remains a critical figure as well.While Padrino López has not publicly positioned himself as a successor, analysts note that the armed forces are no longer unified behind a single leader. Senior generals are divided into competing factions, increasing the risk of internal clashes or a shift toward overt military rule if civilian authority weakens further.Beyond the power struggle among regime elites, Venezuela faces a broader peril.Large parts of the country are already under the influence of . As centralized authority weakens, these actors could exploit the vacuum, expanding control over territory and smuggling routes.Experts warned that an uncontrolled collapse could unleash forces more violent and unpredictable than Maduro’s centralized repression, and the unfolding events suggest that risk is escalating.Outside the regime, opposition leader María Corina Machado remains the most popular political figure among Venezuelan voters. But popularity alone may not be sufficient to translate into power.Machado lacks control over security forces, intelligence agencies, or armed groups. As repression intensifies and rival factions maneuver, her ability to convert public support into political authority remains uncertain.Analysts say Maduro’s fall did not dismantle Venezuela’s power structure; it fractured it.With armed loyalists in the streets, rival factions competing behind the scenes, and an interim leader struggling to assert authority, Venezuela now faces a perilous period where the aftermath of Maduro’s rule could prove more chaotic—and potentially more brutal—than what came before, experts say. For Venezuelans, the question is no longer whether Maduro is gone, but whether anything replacing him will be better.
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Maduro’s Son Pledges ‘Unconditional Support’ to Venezuela’s Newly Sworn-In Interim President
Nicolás Maduro Guerra—son of the captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro—has committed his "unconditional support" to the recently sworn-in , who previously served as his father’s vice president."My unconditional support for the very hard task you've been given," Maduro Guerra—commonly known as "Nicolasito"—stated, per the (CBC). "Count on me, count on my family, count on our firmness in taking the right steps at the forefront of this responsibility that is now yours."Maduro Guerra offered these comments during his first public appearance following the capture of his father and stepmother, Cilia Flores, by U.S. forces and their extradition to . The son of the deposed Venezuelan president—himself a legislator—joined fellow ruling-party lawmakers at the scheduled inauguration of the National Assembly, whose term runs until 2031, as reported by .Maduro Guerra denounced the U.S. operation, labeling it a "kidnapping" and asserting that "no country is safe.""If we normalize the kidnapping of a head of state, no country is safe. Today, it's Venezuela. Tomorrow, it could be any nation that refuses to submit," Maduro Guerra stated, per the CBC. "This is not a regional problem. It is a direct threat to global political stability."Rodríguez—sworn in on Monday—has held the vice presidency since 2018. Though she opposes the U.S. military action that led to her former superior’s arrest, Rodríguez has promised to collaborate with the Trump administration."I come with sorrow for the suffering inflicted upon the Venezuelan people following an illegitimate military aggression against our homeland," Rodríguez stated, per the AP.Maduro and Flores were seized by U.S. forces in the early hours of Saturday morning at their Caracas, Venezuela, residence. The Trump administration announced the operation on Saturday following successful "large-scale" military strikes targeting the . The dictator and his wife are currently detained in New York as they await narco-terrorism charges. This historic action drew both praise and criticism worldwide, with some challenging its legality. were among the nations that denounced the U.S. operation in Venezuela, while certain regional allies—such as Argentina—praised the action.Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado—who received the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her struggle for freedom in Venezuela—lauded the operation, noting that Jan. 3 will be remembered as a "day that justice defeated tyranny.""It's a milestone, and it's not only huge for the Venezuelan people and our future, I think it's a huge step for humanity, for freedom, and human dignity," during an appearance on "Hannity.""A free Venezuela means, first, a security ally, dismantling the criminal hub of the Americas and turning it into a security shield, the strongest ally to dismantle all these criminal structures that have made so much damage and harm to our people and to the American people as well," she stated. "Secondly, we will turn Venezuela into the energy hub of the Americas. We will bring rule of law. We will open markets. We will give security to foreign investment. Third, we'll bring millions of Venezuelans that have been forced to flee their country back home, to build a strong nation, prosperous nation, open society," Machado continued.Machado—who has been in hiding for over a year—has pledged to return to Venezuela. Digital’s Maria Lencki and
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Denmark warns Trump’s Greenland annexation could terminate NATO
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen cautioned on Monday about the consequences of President Trump's threats to annex Greenland, stating it could spell the demise of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).In an interview with Danish broadcaster TV2, Frederiksen emphasized that Trump's statements regarding Greenland must be treated with seriousness."I also need to be clear that if the U.S. decides to militarily assault another NATO nation, then everything ceases. That includes our NATO alliance and the security framework that has existed since World War II ended," she stated.President Donald Trump informed reporters aboard Air Force One this past weekend that he was considering the acquisition of Greenland, a Danish territory, citing "national security" reasons.Leaders across Europe and the Nordic region rejected these comments. Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, and Denmark’s Ambassador to the U.S., Jesper Møller Sørensen, all reaffirmed their backing for Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland and insisted that only Greenland and Denmark should decide its future.White House deputy chief of staff for policy, Stephen Miller, defended Trump's comments, asserting in a Monday interview that Greenland "should be part of the United States."CNN anchor Jake Tapper questioned Miller on whether the Trump administration could exclude the possibility of military action against the Arctic island."Greenland has a population of 30,000 people," Miller responded. "The fundamental issue is on what grounds Denmark claims control over Greenland. What is the foundation of their territorial claim? What justifies Greenland being a Danish colony?""The United States is the leading force in NATO. For America to protect the Arctic region and to safeguard its own and NATO's interests, it is evident Greenland should belong to the United States," he continued.Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen declared in a Monday Facebook statement that his nation is "not an object of superpower rhetoric.""We are a people. A land. And a democracy. This must be respected. Particularly by close and loyal allies," Nielsen wrote in part of his statement."Threats, pressure, and annexation talk have no place among friends," he added. "That is no way to address a people who have consistently demonstrated responsibility, stability, and loyalty. This has gone far enough."
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by: emer
Radisson Announces Additional High-Grade Drill Results and Further Extends New Mineralization Beneath the Historic O’Brien Gold Mine
Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, Jan 6, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Radisson Mining Resources Inc. (TSXV: RDS) (OTCQX: RMRDF) ("Radisson" or the "Company") is pleased to announce assay results from six new drill holes completed at its 100%-owned O'Brien Gold Project ("O'Brien" or the "Project") located in the Abitibi region of Québec. The six holes are the latest completed as part of the Company's ongoing 140,000-metre step-out drill program designed to test the overall scope of gold mineralization at the Project (see Radisson news release dated October 16, 2025). Two of the holes represent the twelfth and thirteenth directional wedges completed from pilot hole OB-24-337 and serve to expand the broad area of new high-grade mineralization being delineated across multiple veins beneath the historic O'Brien Gold Mine. All six of the holes released today intersected gold mineralization, and five of the holes returned intercepts with grades and thicknesses consistent with the Project's existing mineral resources, continuing the very high success rate of the current drill program. Highlights include:OB-25-337W13 intersected 90.60 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold ("Au") over 1.0 metre within a mineralized interval averaging 30.59 g/t Au over 3.0 metres and 9.14 g/t Au over 2.7 metres, including 16.35 g/t Au over 1.4 metres;OB-25-337W12 intersected 25.10 g/t Au over 1.5 metres and 14.20 g/t Au over 1.5 metres and 11.40 g/t Au over 1.3 metres;OB-25-322W2 intersected 3.11 g/t Au over 8.0 metres including 5.93 g/t Au over 1.5 metres and 3.62 g/t Au over 4.0 metres including 6.33 g/t Au over 1.5 metres;OB-25-322W1 intersected 4.02 g/t Au over 4.5 metres, including 8.29 g/t Au over 1.5 metres;Matt Manson, President and CEO: "Today we are releasing six new drill holes from our ongoing deep step-out drill program at O'Brien. These continue to illustrate the extension of the Project's system of gold mineralization below the historic O'Brien mine and the current mineral resources. Of particular note are the two new wedges completed from pilot hole OB-24-337 located beneath the former mine's final stope. These are the twelfth and thirteenth such wedges completed. Once again, we are seeing multiple high-grade intercepts of quartz-sulphide veins within broader alteration envelopes. This represents a system of gold mineralization that we have modelled as up to six veins delineated over a 250-metre (east-west) by 500-metre (vertical) area that remains open. With this step-out drill program we are steadily pushing the limits of known mineralization at O'Brien outwards and downwards. Overall, we have now completed 74 drill holes in the 140,000 metres program, 61 of which have intersected mineralization with grades and thicknesses consistent with the Project's current mineral resources, an 82% success rate. As we start 2026, we will be operating seven drill rigs at site and ramping up to our eighth rig presently. Twelve additional step-out drill holes, including the final OB-24-337 wedges, have been completed and are awaiting assays."Figure 1: Longitudinal Vertical Section and Plan View of Gold Vein Mineralization and Mineral Resources at the O'Brien Gold Project, with Today's Drill Holes IllustratedTo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10977/279548_fc1f5b478496fb3e_001full.jpgTable 1: Assay Results from Select Drill HolesDDHZone From (m) To (m) Core Length (m)Au g/t - UncutHost LithologyOB-25-322W1Trend #1 1,226.0 1,227.51.503.88 V3-S 1,359.5 1,364.04.504.02 S1p Including 1,362.5 1,364.01.508.29 S1p OB-25-322W2Trend #1 1,401.0 1,402.01.002.82 POR-S 1,409.0 1,410.51.503.61 S1p 1,421.0 1,429.08.003.11 S1p Including 1,424.5 1,426.01.505.93 S1p 1,434.5 1,438.54.003.62 S1p Including 1,435.5 1,437.01.506.33 S1p 1,465.0 1,466.51.503.67 POR-N OB-25-337W12O'Brien MineEast 1,274.5 1,276.01.5025.10 V3-S 1,293.5 1,295.01.503.50 POR-S 1,306.5 1,308.01.5014.20 POR-S 1,318.7 1,320.01.3011.40 V3-CEN OB-25-337W13O'Brien MineEast 862.0 865.03.0030.59 PON-S3 Including 864.0 865.01.0090.60 PON-S3 1,211.5 1,214.22.709.14 POR-S Including 1,212.8 1,214.21.4016.35 POR-S OB-25-371W7Trend #2 1,143.2 1,144.71.503.94 S1p 1,152.5 1,154.01.504.61 POR-N 1,169.9 1,171.41.503.51 V3-N Notes on Calculation of Drill Intercepts:The O'Brien Gold Project Mineral Resource Estimate effective May 6, 2025 ("MRE") utilizes a 2.20 g/t Au bottom cut-off, a US$2,000 gold price, a minimum mining width of 1.2 metres, and a 40 g/t Au upper cap on composites. Intercepts presented in Table 1 are calculated with a 3.00 g/t Au bottom cut-off. True widths, based on depth of intercept and drill hole inclination, are estimated to be 30-80% of core length. Table 2 presents additional drill intercepts calculated with a 1.00 g/t bottom cut-off over a minimum 1.0 metre core length so as to illustrate the frequency and continuity of mineralized intervals within which high-grade gold veins at O'Brien are developed. Lithology Codes: PON-S3: Pontiac Sediments; V3-S, V3-N, V3-CEN: Basalt-South, North, Central; S1P, S3P: Conglomerate; POR-S, POR-N: Porphyry South, North; TX: Crystal Tuff; ZFLLC: Larder Lake-Cadillac Fault Zone.Gold Mineralization at O'BrienGold mineralizing quartz-sulphide veins at O'Brien occur within a thin band of interlayered mafic volcanic rocks, conglomerates, and porphyritic andesitic sills of the Piché Group occurring in contact with the east-west oriented Larder Lake-Cadillac Break ("LLCB"). Gold, along with pyrite and arsenopyrite, is typically associated with shearing and a pervasive biotite alteration, and developed within multiple Piché Group lithologies and, occasionally, the hanging-wall Pontiac and footwall Cadillac meta-sedimentary rocks.As mapped at the historic O'Brien mine, and now replicated in the modern drilling, individual veins are generally narrow, ranging from several centimetres up to several metres in thickness. Multiple veins occur sub-parallel to each other, as well as sub-parallel to the Piché lithologies and the LLCB. Individual veins have well-established lateral continuity, with near-vertical, high-grade shoots developed over significant lengths. Based on the historic data available, it is clear that the former mine was "high-graded", with mining focussed on a main central stope and parallel veins identified but left undeveloped.The historic O'Brien mine produced over half a million ounces of gold from such veins and shoots at an average grade exceeding 15 g/t Au and over a vertical extent of at least 1,000 metres. Modern exploration has focussed on delineating well developed vein mineralization to the east of the historic mine, with additional high-grade shoots becoming evident in the exploration data over what has been described as a series of repeating trends ("Trend #s 0 to 5").Figure 2: Deep Step-Out Drill Holes Completed and/or Published by the Company since December 2024To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10977/279548_fc1f5b478496fb3e_003full.jpgStep-Out Drilling at O'BrienSince the end of 2024, Radisson has been pursuing a program of broad step-outs beneath the historic O'Brien Gold mine and the existing mineral resources designed to test the extent of mineralization at the Project. This drilling is accomplished with pilot holes followed by wedges and directional drilling to maximize drill efficiency. On October 16, 2025, Radisson announced the expansion of the step-out drill program to 140,000 metres employing an eventual eight drill rigs.The origin of the step-out drill program was the deep pilot hole OB-24-337, which was the first exploration drill hole located below the former mine workings since mining ended in 1957. This hole intersected 31.24 g/t Au over 8.0 metres, including 242.0 g/t Au over 1.0 metre at approximately 1,500 metres vertical depth (see Radisson news release dated December 16, 2024). With today's results, assay results from a total of thirteen wedges from OB-24-337 have now been reported and up to six gold-bearing veins have been delineated over an area of approximately 250 metres (east-west) by 500 metres (vertical). The thirteenth wedge, released today, intersected 9.14 g/t Au over 2.7 metres including 16.35 g/t Au over 1.4 metres within Piché rocks just 40 metres below the final historic mining stope (Figures 1 and 3). The final two wedges, the fourteenth and fifteenth, have been completed and assay results are expected shortly. Future drilling in this area will utilize new pilot holes and wedge extensions to test the full scope of mineralization down to 2 kilometres depth.Figure 3: Vertical Cross Section through the Historic O'Brien Mine with Deep Pilot Hole OB-24-337 and Wedges OB-25-337W1 to W13To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10977/279548_fc1f5b478496fb3e_004full.jpgTable 2: Detailed Assay Results (see "Notes on Calculation of Drill Intercepts")DDHZone From (m) To (m) Core Length (m)Au g/t - UncutHost LithologyOB-25-322W1Trend #1 1,226.0 1,227.51.503.88V3-S 1,285.5 1,287.01.501.05V3-S 1,315.2 1,322.57.301.14POR-S 1,331.5 1,337.56.001.42POR-S 1,349.0 1,353.54.501.77S1p 1,359.5 1,364.04.504.02S1pIncluding 1,362.5 1,364.01.508.29S1p 1,371.5 1,373.01.501.80S1p 1,390.0 1,391.01.002.22V3-NOB-25-322W2Trend #1 1,401.0 1,402.01.002.82POR-S 1,409.0 1,410.51.503.61S1p 1,415.0 1,416.51.502.37S1p 1,421.0 1,429.08.003.11S1pIncluding 1,424.5 1,426.01.505.93S1p 1,434.5 1,438.54.003.62S1pIncluding 1,435.5 1,437.01.506.33S1p 1,450.5 1,451.61.102.36S1p 1,465.0 1,468.03.002.93POR-N/V3-N 1,465.0 1,466.51.503.67POR-NOB-25-337W12O'Brien MineEast 1,262.5 1,264.01.501.78 V3-S 1,267.0 1,268.51.501.39 V3-S 1,274.5 1,276.01.5025.10 V3-S 1,281.8 1,283.31.501.17 V3-S 1,293.5 1,299.05.501.53 POR-S Including 1,293.5 1,295.01.503.50 POR-S 1,306.5 1,308.01.5014.20 POR-S 1,313.2 1,317.74.501.01 V3-CEN 1,318.7 1,320.01.3011.40 V3-CEN 1,378.5 1,379.91.401.04 POR-N 1,388.5 1,391.53.001.34 V3-N OB-25-337W13O'Brien MineEast 862.0 865.03.0030.59PON-S3Including 864.0 865.01.0090.60PON-S3 1,211.5 1,214.22.709.14POR-SIncluding 1,212.8 1,214.21.4016.35POR-S 1,263.1 1,265.52.401.25V3-N 1,279.0 1,280.51.501.03V3-NOB-25-371W7Trend #2 1,092.5 1,095.53.001.25V3-S 1,120.0 1,121.51.501.60V3-S 1,141.8 1,147.05.202.36V3-CEN/S1pIncluding 1,143.2 1,144.71.503.94S1p 1,152.5 1,154.01.504.61POR-N 1,168.4 1,171.43.002.90V3-NIncluding 1,169.9 1,171.41.503.51V3-NOB-25-377O'Brien MineWest 767.0 768.01.001.46PON-S3 791.0 792.01.001.08PON-S3 1,151.5 1,153.01.501.71V3-S 1,191.0 1,192.11.101.63V3-CEN 1,230.9 1,232.41.501.01S1p 1,248.8 1,250.11.301.58S1p 1,262.2 1,263.31.101.52POR-N 1,310.0 1,311.01.001.46V3-N Table 3: Drill Hole Collar Information for Holes contained in this News ReleaseDDHZoneEastingNorthingAzimuthDipHole Length (m)OB-25-322W1Trend #169419953450981-85.0627.0OB-25-322W2Trend #169419953450981-85.0687.0OB-25-337W12O'Brien Mine East6937005345070346-79.5651.5OB-25-337W13O'Brien Mine East6937005345070346-79.5710.0OB-25-371W7Trend #26945315345147334-82.0347.0OB-25-377O'Brien Mine West6932725345054345-79.51337.0 Notes:Hole lengths for wedges represent meterage from point of wedge. Drill hole OB-24-337 was completed in 2024 while its wedge branches were drilled in 2025.Today's results also include the first and second wedges completed from pilot drill hole OB-24-322, which intersected high-grade mineralization on the downwards extension of Trend #1 at 1,280 metres and 1,360 metres vertical depth, respectively. These two wedges appear to have intersected the same mineralized zone over a vertical separation of 80 metres, returning similar intercepts of 4.02 g/t Au over 4.5 metres, including 8.29 g/t Au over 1.5 metres (OB-25-322W1) and 3.11 g/t Au over 8.0 metres including 5.93 g/t Au over 1.5 metres and 3.62 g/t Au over 4.0 metres including 6.33 g/t Au over 1.5 metres (OB-25-322W2). Additional drill wedges from OB-24-322 have been completed and assays are pending.Drill hole OB-25-371W7 is the seventh wedge from a pilot hole centered on the deep extension of Trend #2. It returned three separate intercepts of gold mineralization that were short, but with grades and thicknesses consistent with the Project's mineral resources, in an untested area on the western side of Trend #2 towards the deep extension of Trend #1 (Figure 1). The Company considers the apparent "gap" between the deep extensions of these two mineralizing trends to be a function of drill coverage rather than mineralization (Figure 2). This area offers a significant opportunity to delineate future mineral resources at relatively shallow depths and within the scope of the mine design contained in the Project's 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment. Further drill testing here will be an important part of the upcoming 2026 work program. The sixth drill hole release today, OB-25-377, was located in a gap area between the western and eastern portions of the former mine and intersected three narrow zones of minor mineralization.QA/QCAll drill cores in this campaign are NQ in size. Assays were completed on sawn half-cores, with the second half kept for future reference. The samples were analyzed using standard fire assay procedures with Atomic Absorption (AA) finish at ALS Laboratory Ltd, in Val-d'Or, Quebec. Samples yielding a grade higher than 10 g/t Au were analyzed a second time by fire assay with gravimetric finish at the same laboratory. Mineralized zones containing visible gold were analyzed with metallic sieve procedure. Standard reference materials, blank samples and duplicates were inserted prior to shipment for quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) program.QP DisclosureDisclosure of a scientific or technical nature in this news release was prepared under the supervision of Mr. Richard Nieminen, P.Geo, (QC), a geological consultant for Radisson and a Qualified Person for purposes of NI 43-101. Mr. Luke Evans, M.Sc., P.Eng., ing, of SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd., is the Qualified Person responsible for the preparation of the MRE at O'Brien. Each of Mr. Nieminen and Mr. Evans is independent of Radisson and the O'Brien Gold Project.About Radisson MiningRadisson is a gold exploration company focused on its 100% owned O'Brien Gold Project, located in the Bousquet-Cadillac mining camp along the world-renowned Larder-Lake-Cadillac Break in Abitibi, Québec. A July 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment described a low cost and high value project with an 11-year mine life and significant upside potential based on the use of existing regional infrastructure. Indicated Mineral Resources are estimated at 0.58 million ounces (2.20 million tonnes at 8.2 g/t Au), with additional Inferred Mineral Resources estimated at 0.93 million ounces (6.67 million tonnes at 4.4 g/t Au). Please see the NI 43-101 "O'Brien Gold Project Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment, Québec, Canada" effective June 27, 2025, and other filings made with Canadian securities regulatory authorities available at www.sedarplus.ca for further details and assumptions relating to the O'Brien Gold Project. For more information on Radisson, visit our website at www.radissonmining.com or contact:Matt MansonPresident and CEO416.618.5885mmanson@radissonmining.comKristina PillonManager, Investor Relations604.908.1695kpillon@radissonmining.comForward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates, projections, and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements including, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the ability to execute the Company's plans relating to the O'Brien Gold Project as set out in the Preliminary Economic Assessment; the Company's ability to complete its planned exploration and development programs; the absence of adverse conditions at the O'Brien Gold Project; the absence of unforeseen operational delays; the absence of material delays in obtaining necessary permits; the price of gold remaining at levels that render the O'Brien Gold Project profitable; the Company's ability to continue raising necessary capital to finance its operations; the ability to realize on the mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates; assumptions regarding present and future business strategies; local and global geopolitical and economic conditions and the environment in which the Company operates and will operate in the future; planned and ongoing drilling; the significance of drill results; the ability to continue drilling; the impact of drilling on the definition of any resource; and the ability to incorporate new drilling in an updated technical report and resource modelling; the Company's ability to grow the O'Brien Gold Project; and the ability to convert inferred mineral resources to indicated mineral resources.Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, interpretations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "interpreted", "management's view", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information and are intended to identify forward-looking information. Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements Forward-looking information is based on estimates of management of the Company, at the time it was made, involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the companies to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others; the risk that the O'Brien Gold Project will never reach the production stage (including due to a lack of financing); the Company's capital requirements and access to funding; changes in legislation, regulations and accounting standards to which the Company is subject, including environmental, health and safety standards, and the impact of such legislation, regulations and standards on the Company's activities; price volatility and availability of commodities; instability in the global financial system; the effects of high inflation, such as higher commodity prices; the risk of any future litigation against the Company; changes in project parameters and/or economic assessments as plans continue to be refined; the risk that actual costs may exceed estimated costs; geological, mining and exploration technical problems; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing; risks relating to the drill results at O'Brien; the significance of drill results; and the ability of drill results to accurately predict mineralization. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what management believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the parties cannot assure shareholders and prospective purchasers of securities that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, and neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any such forward-looking information. The Company believes that this forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this press release should not be unduly relied upon. The Company does not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release.Please refer to the "Risks and Uncertainties Related to Exploration" and the "Risks Related to Financing and Development" sections of the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis dated April 29, 2025 for the year ended December 31, 2024, and the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis dated November 26, 2025 for the three month period ended September 30, 2025, all of which are available electronically on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/279548 Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: emer
Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair leads market innovation, debut ‘Pop & Play’ pavilion opens to industry and public
HONG KONG, January 6, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The 52nd HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 17th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 24th Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair will run concurrently at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12 to 15 January 2026. The first two fairs are organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), while the latter is jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. Highly international in scope, the three fairs bring together exhibitors and buyers from around the world, creating networking and business opportunities and helping to foster cross-regional trade cooperation.Jenny Koo, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “The HKTDC is committed to creating even more international collaboration opportunities for the industry. The three fairs, themed ‘New Play for All’, are closely aligned with the global surge in designer toys and collectibles. This year, they have attracted more than 2,600 exhibitors from 37 countries and regions, including new participants from Bangladesh, New Zealand and Norway. We have also launched the new ‘Pop & Play’ pavilion, bringing together around 150 trendy IPs. Open to both trade buyers and the public, the pavilion will help cutting-edge toy brands connect with global business buyers to expand into international markets and further unleash the commercial potential of their IPs, while also enabling mainland and overseas brands to engage directly with local designer toy fans.”Ms Koo added: “We are actively inviting buyer representatives from a wide range of sectors to visit the Toys & Games Fair, including theme parks, museums, financial institutions, food and beverage, hotels, licensing companies, retail department stores and large corporations, to foster more cross-sector and cross-industry collaboration. Also new is the Happy Ageing label that makes it easier to identify toys and games designed specifically for seniors or intergenerational family fun, offering easier access to high-quality products that meet market needs.”150 IPs showcased at new “Pop & Play” pavilion, where designers interact with visitorsThe “kidult” and toy collecting market continue to grow in popularity, injecting strong growth momentum into the toy industry. The newly launched “Pop & Play” pavilion at the Toys & Games Fair features five key highlights:A strong lineup of international and local famous IPs – including top names such as B.Duck, CardFun, CR7® LIFE, Hot Toys, LAURA, Moshow Toys, Play Bonito®, Room One, threezero, TUTU MOKEY and more, all showcasing their latest creations.Global and fair premieres and limited-edition collectibles – some IPs will launch fair premieres and global limited-edition collectibles that are set to be highly sought after, including MOMOLAND's debut dolls; TUTU MOKEY collectible figurines and art sculptures limited to 100 and 88 pieces globally; CM Concepts Limited's Mazinger Z Playing Cards, limited to 1,500 sets worldwide; and Dongguan Manbo Brand Management Co., Ltd's Father Joka doll, limited to 100 pieces. In addition, threezero has collaborated with Another World, a Hong Kong animated film, to launch a highly collectible Gudo Vinyl Figure. This is not only a must-have for devoted fans of the film, but also an exquisite masterpiece for collectors who appreciate the art of animation. Pre-ordering for this item will be available onsite.Diverse events – renowned artists and designers will share their creative insights and artistic visions through seminars and autograph sessions, including b.wing, founder of la b.wing Galerie Ltd; Kenny Wong, creator of the iconic Molly and founder of Brothersfree; Steven Choi, founder of Zu and Pi; Winson Ma, founder and creative director of Winson Classic Creation; award-winning international illustrator Pen So as well as Jerry Cho, author of Dead End that inspired the popular TV drama Rope A Dope. On 14 January, a key thematic seminar titled “Explosive Growth of IP Economy: from Local Success to Global Reach”, will delve into the enormous business opportunities and future trends presented by the collectible toy industry.IGable photo spots – the fair’s mascots Ah Pop and Ah Play will make appearances in the “Pop & Play” pavilion for interactive photo opportunities with visitors. In addition, Hot Toys will showcase eye-catching giant statues including Marvel's Iron Man, Disney's Stitch and Star Wars' Grogu COSBI. threezero will display the giant statue of ROBO-DOU Evangelion 13 from “Evangelion: New Theatrical Edition”, while Asia Partners will exhibit a rare Cristiano Ronaldo autographed jersey and Semk Global Marketing Limited will present its inflatable and fibreglass B.Duck installations.Exclusive interactive experience and giveaways – renowned designers have created three limited-edition collectible cards for the “Pop & Play” pavilion, with only 800 sets available worldwide. Visitors can win one of the cards by playing the gashapon game onsite. With limited quantities available, these cards hold significant collectible value. Guests can also enjoy an AI photo-taking experience to pose with the collectible card characters, as well as join the “Souvenir DIY” workshop to craft personalised trendy souvenirs and create truly unique memories.Aligning with silver economy trends, new Happy Ageing label facilitates sourcingWith ageing populations becoming a global reality, the new Happy Ageing label is introduced at this year’s Toys & Games Fair to help buyers identify toys and related products for seniors. More than 40 exhibitors will be among the first to adopt the label and showcase relevant products at the event.Toy industry export confidence index rises alongside increase in eco-friendly exhibitorsThe HKTDC’s Q4 2025 Export Confidence Index, released last month, saw the toy sector's current conditions index climb to its highest level since Q1 last year, rising 1.1 points from 49.4 to 50.5. Meanwhile, continued demand for sustainable products from the Middle East and Europe is driving export confidence in eco-friendly toys. The “Green Toys” zone at the Toys & Games Fair will showcase various innovative eco-friendly products, including STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) magic sets made from biodegradable materials. Both the Toys & Games Fair and Stationery Fair will use the Green Solutions label for identification, with more than 400 exhibitors displaying the green leaf logo this year – an increase of approximately 10% compared to 2025.At the Baby Products Fair, the World of Strollers and Gear and ODM Strollers and Gear zones are together hosting approximately 230 exhibitors, with an increase in both exhibitor numbers and fair area compared to last year, presenting a range of high-quality baby strollers, car seats and rockers. The Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair both continue to feature the popular Brand Name Gallery, bringing together over 380 well-known brands from around the globe and allowing buyers to source the latest designs and high-quality products from a variety of manufacturers. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair, jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, will feature the latest school and office supplies, creative art supplies and gift stationery for the benefit of global buyers.This year's fairs are all highly international, with several acclaimed international pavilions returning. The Toys & Games Fair welcomes pavilions from Chinese Mainland, Taiwan and Korea, while the World of Toys pavilion features European exhibitors. The Baby Fair showcases the highly anticipated “Selection of Europe”, while important partners such as the Hong Kong Children, Babies, Maternity Industries Association and Korea pavilion have also returned. The HKTDC has organised over 200 buyer missions from more than 40 countries and regions to attend and source products at the fairs. In addition to traditional distributors and importers, popular e-commerce platforms such as Rakuten, Tmall Global, and Amazon have also been invited to participate, helping exhibitors expand their sales channels.Asia Toys & Games Forum reveals global strategic developmentThemed “Empowering the Toy Industry for Global Success”, this year’s Asia Toys & Games Forum has invited international experts to discuss the latest industry updates and developments. It will include sharing on the toys and games market outlook and industry opportunities by renowned international market research firm Euromonitor International; insights into the global IP ecosystem and merchandise strategies by The Walt Disney Company; unlocking product certification for global market access by globally renowned SGS Hong Kong Limited; and exploring the design and business landscape of the seniors toy market in Asia by Yukai Engineering Inc., recipient of multiple international product design awards, and Ageing Asia. Other seminars will cover important topics such as toy safety regulations and regulatory developments, marketing strategies incorporating artificial intelligence and robotics, and trends in modern childcare and infant products.The three exhibitions offer buyers a unique one-stop sourcing solution, creating more cross-industry business opportunities. Under the EXHIBITION+ model, the fairs combine access to the physical exhibition with the Click2Match smart-matching platform, which enables online business meetings. The online exhibition will be accessible from 5 to 22 January 2026, helping to create more business opportunities for participating companies. Buyers can also scan QR codes at exhibitor booths and display showcases using the Scan2Match function to bookmark their favourite exhibitors, browse product information and engage with exhibitors during and after the fair, helping to build more business connections.Photo download: https://bit.ly/44Y3sCIJenny Koo, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director (centre), Bryant Chan, Chairman of the HKTDC Toys Advisory Committee (left), Judy Cheung and Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd (right) joined today’s press conference to present highlights and innovative products from the Toys & Games Fair, Baby Products Fair and Stationery & School Supplies Fair, all of which open next Monday (12 January)The Toys & Games Fair is launching the new “Pop & Play” pavilion in 2026, with event mascots Ah Pop and Ah Play making their debut appearance at the press conferenceArtist Shirley Sham (left) unveiled exhibits from the “Pop & Play” pavilion at the press conference, including Play Bonito® Blind Box, B.Duck B ANYTHING Series, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts DLX Mirage, and moreThe global retail market for trendy toys and collectibles is experiencing rapid growth. Products including the Duke of Wei Guo figurine, limited-edition TUTU MOKEY collectible figures, the world premiere of the limited-to-1,500 sets Mazinger Z Playing Cards and the debut MOMOLAND dolls will all be showcased at the “Pop & Play” pavilionA Toys & Games Fair exhibitor showcases an AI storytellerA Baby Products Fair exhibitor showcases a portable booster seat that transforms from a comfortable armchair for infants and toddlers into a foldable high chair for preschool-aged children. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carryA Stationery Fair exhibitor presents dot markers, available in a wide range of colours and shapes, designed for artistic enlightenment and improving the learning cognition of children aged three and overFair websites- HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair: hktoyfair.hktdc.com- HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair: hkbabyfair.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair: hkstationeryfair.comRegister for free Pop & Play ticket: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hktoyfair/en/pop-playMedia enquiriesHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Katy WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgWinnie Kan Tel: (852) 2584 4055Email: winnie.wy.kan@hktdc.orgClayton LauwTel: (852) 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgHKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: eqs
Concord New Energy Group Limited (0182.HK) successfully listed on the Mainboard of SGX Stock Exchange
EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 06/01/2026 / 17:29 UTC+8 Today, Concord New Energy Group Limited (CNE Group) is successfully secondary listing on main board of SGX Stock exchange, under the stock code “SEG”. This remarks a key step forward to drawing the blueprint of CNE Group globalization strategy. Concord New Energy Group Limited (CNE) is a Singapore-headquartered company focuses in renewable energy industry nearly two decades, been listed on HKEX mainboard since 2007. CNE is committed always to providing high-quality clean energy and related professional services. Our business has covered development, investment and operation of wind power, photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage assets global wide. Currently, CNE is managing a total equity capacity more than 5GW. Liu Shunxing, Chairman of the board of CNE, said, “Today makes a significant milestone for CNE Group. Our secondary listing on the Singapore Exchange represents a key step in advancing our global business strategy. It reflects our long-term commitment to strengthening corporate governance and actively engaging with international capital markets. Singapore occupies a uniquely strategic position at the intersection of advanced artificial intelligence, next-generation energy systems, and global capital markets. We are honored to become part of Singapore’s capital market and look forward to building long-term, constructive partnerships with both local and international investors. We remain firmly committed to contributing more on the global transition from fossil fuels to clean and renewable energy.” Pol de Win, Head of Global Sales and Origination, SGX Group, give his congratulations to CNE, and said, “As Asia’s most international multi-asset exchange with a strong commitment to transition finance, SGX will offers Concord New Energy Group an international platform to expand its reach to a diverse network of global investors, customers and partners as it advances the transition to cleaner energy.” 06/01/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.com
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by: emer
CTF Life Amplifies Ecosystem Synergy
HONG KONG, January 6, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – CTF Life today announced the further expansion of its “Direct Billing Service” in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), increasing the number of partner hospitals to 23, covering both public and private healthcare institutions. Customers can also access the market-first^ Hong Kong doctor referral service through the “Mainland China Inpatient Support” service. Customers can consult a general practitioner at the GBAH clinic in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong to assess their eligibility for receiving treatment in the Chinese Mainland, recommend an appropriate hospital, and assist with making appointments. Clinic staff can also help to handle pre-authorisation service applications. Once approved, GBAH will arrange the necessary procedures with the hospital for direct billing, so customers do not need to pay upfront, allowing them to focus on their treatment and recovery. This initiative aims to address rising customer demand for high-quality and convenient medical services by fully leveraging the strengths of the Chow Tai Fook Group ecosystem. Through the extensive medical network of The GBA Healthcare Group (GBAH), it will offer customers who reside in the Chinese Mainland or frequently travel across the GBA with a broader range of affordable medical service options.In response to the growing demand for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments, CTF Life continuously addresses evolving needs by incorporating TCM treatment coverage into multiple medical protection plans (such as “MediChamp”, “TopCare”, “FlexiCare”, “ChampCare”, and “MediCare”), giving customers the flexibility to choose the most suitable treatment. In addition, hospitals in GBA Chinese mainland cities offer integrated treatment plans combining TCM and Western medicine for chronic or complex conditions (such as cancer) at reasonable prices, providing customers with more comprehensive and personalised healthcare options. Through CTF Life’s well-established medical network, customers can conveniently access professional and integrated treatment services.Man Kit Ip, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life, said: “As integration within the GBA deepens and transportation becomes more convenient, a growing number of Hong Kong residents who live, retire in, or travel to Chinese Mainland cities are opting to receive medical treatment there. By leveraging the Chow Tai Fook Group's robust ecosystem, we have further expanded CTF Life's ‘Direct Billing Service’ hospital network in the GBA and introduced the market-first^ Hong Kong doctor referral service through the ‘Mainland China Inpatient Support’ service, freeing customers from complicated claims procedures when seeking medical care and offering them a faster, more reliable healthcare experience. We remain dedicated to providing a broader array of health and medical service options, meeting customers’ needs at different life stages and for various lifestyles, delivering comprehensive health protection and creating value beyond insurance.”Key service enhancements include: 1. Market-First^ Hong Kong Doctor Referral Service through “Mainland China Inpatient Support” Service: Following assessment and referral by a Hong Kong doctor, GBAH will assist with booking appointments at hospitals in GBA Chinese mainland cities, submitting direct billing service applications, and arranging for hospitals to receive payment directly, relieving customers’ financial pressure.2. Network Coverage of “Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme”: CTF Life has established “Direct Billing Service” arrangement with multiple hospitals that are also participating in the Hong Kong Government’s “Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme”, facilitating access for eligible customers. The service coverage spans all nine GBA Chinese mainland cities.3. Integrated TCM and Western Medicine Treatment: For chronic or complex diseases such as cancer, these plans combine the strengths of both TCM and Western medicine to offer more comprehensive treatment options, catering to customers’ diverse needs.4. Value-Added Services: Partner hospitals, including Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital and Guangzhou United Family Hospital, use WeChat mini programmes to arrange urgent consultations, treatment follow-ups, medical report interpretations, and video consultations. Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital also provides a complimentary shuttle bus service to and from Futian Port, making travel more convenient for patients.^ As of 31 December 2025List of Hospitals Supporting “Direct Billing Service” in GBA Chinese mainland cities(* indicates newly added)1Guangzhou First People's Hospital2Nansha Hospital of Guangzhou First People's Hospital3Shenzhen Bao'an People's Hospital4Dongguan People's Hospital5University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital*6Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital*7Guangzhou United Family Hospital*8Zhongshan Chen Xinghai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine*9The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (Guangzhou)*10Nansha Division of The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University*11Dongguan Tung Wah Hospital*12Guangdong Qifu Hospital (Foshan)*13Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Guangzhou)*14Southern Medical University Shenzhen Hospital*15Peking University Shenzhen Hospital*16The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (Zhuhai)*17Zhuhai People's Hospital*18Foshan First People's Hospital*19The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University (Foshan)*20Huizhou Central People's Hospital*21Zhongshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital*22Jiangmen Central Hospital*23Zhaoqing First People's Hospital*About CTF LifeChow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (“CTF Life”) is proud of its rich, 40-year legacy in Hong Kong. CTF Life is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CTF Services Limited (“CTFS”) (Hong Kong Stock Code: 659) and one of the most well-established life insurance companies in Hong Kong. As a member of Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, CTF Life consistently strengthens its collaboration with the Chow Tai Fook Group ecosystem to support customers and their loved ones in navigating life’s journey with personalised planning solutions, lifelong protection and diverse lifestyle experiences. By leveraging the Group’s robust financial strength and strategic investments across the globe, CTF Life aspires to become a leading insurance company in Asia while continuously creating value beyond insurance. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: grit
Mitsubishi Motors to Celebrate “Delica Festival” with Custom Versions of Delica D:5 and Delica Mini at Tokyo Auto Salon 2026
TOKYO, Jan 6, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) will exhibit at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, one of the world's largest custom car shows, to be held from January 9 until January 11 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. A total of 11 vehicles will be on display, with the customized versions of the all-new Delica Mini super height-wagon kei-car* and the upgraded Delica D:5 minivan as the centerpiece.With the theme “Delica Festival — unleash your playful spirit,” Mitsubishi Motors sets the stage for a showcase with custom vehicles that highlight the strength and versatility of the Delica D:5 and Delica Mini. Adding to the excitement, the actual rally car that claimed overall victory at the Asia Cross Country Rally 2025 (AXCR 2025) and the Delica D:5 support car will also be on display.Visitors will be welcomed into a vibrant, Japanese-inspired festival setting complete with themed decorations. Appearances by Delimaru, the official mascot inspired by the Delica Mini, will bring the playful spirit of the “Delica Festival” to life as it greets guests throughout the booth. Delica Mini Delimaru FestaTo express the booth’s “Delica Festival” theme, this model is decorated with playful touches of decals and wraps featuring the beloved mascot, Delimaru. To match the lively, festive atmosphere of the booth, a giant Delimaru riding on the Delica Mini is also dressed in a traditional Japanese happi coat, bringing the festive spirit to life. Delica D:5 Ultimate GearThis model takes the toughness of the Delica D:5 to the next level, expressing the power to push forward even in harsh environments. With its body lifted by 30 millimeters (mm), it is fitted with bumper guards and side steps designed for rugged terrain. To complete the look, the entire vehicle features a special rugged textured coating that makes scratches less noticeable, creating a bold and off-road-ready Delica D:5. Delica Mini Ultimate GearSpecially prepared for Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, this Delica Mini features an exclusive two-tone finish, enhanced with a rugged textured coating for added boldness and toughness. Equipped with a roof rack, front grille guard, and rear ladder, along with a 20-mm suspension lift, this customized model embodies Mitsubishi Motors’ adventurous spirit — ready to tackle challenging terrain. Delica D:5 Active Camper Featuring a warm, white birch wood-grain finish paired with a soothing brown interior, this model is a collaboration with the outdoor brand LOGOS. It introduces a premium outdoor style while maintaining the versatility of the Delica D:5 and its 4WD capability, making it the perfect companion from everyday driving to weekend adventures. Delica Mini Active Camper This Delica Mini is equipped with a pop-up roof, a front skid bar, and mud flaps — customized to inspire outdoor adventures with friends. A lift kit of 25 mm enhances off-road capability, making this model a true companion for those who want to fully embrace the outdoor experience. Delica Mini x “DALI” with DAMD This original custom car — finished with accessories from DALI, a new brand by custom parts manufacturer DAMD Inc. — pays homage to the Pajero through its front grille and lights. While preserving Mitsubishi Motors’ signature profile, it blends retro charm with a cute yet rugged styling, catering to customers seeking a car that stands out and showcases uniqueness. Delica D:5 Wild Adventure style Equipped with genuine Mitsubishi Motors accessories, this model features exclusive enhancements for its appearance at the Tokyo Auto Salon. With a newly designed flat roof carrier, large mud flaps with rally-inspired straps, and a stainless-steel rear under cover for a rugged look, this model brings out the full robustness of the Delica D:5. Delica Mini Wild Adventure style Also equipped with genuine accessories, this customized Delica Mini showcases camouflage‑pattern decals, a dedicated roof rack and mud flaps that create a tough, adventurous look. In line with the Delica D:5 Wild Adventure style, it features exclusive exterior accessories in special colors, creating a unique edition for this year’s exhibition. Delica Mini TOMICA 55th Anniversary Edition This rally‑inspired Delica Mini was created as part of TOMICA’s 55th Anniversary Auto Manufacturer Collaboration Project, celebrating the legacy of Japan’s beloved die‑cast miniature car brand. Its energetic graphics evoke smoke rising from magma‑like red tones, flowing from the front of the vehicle to the sides. To mark this milestone, the special 55th Anniversary logo appears as a rally plate, while the iconic TOMICA logo is styled like sponsor decals — giving the car an authentic rally aesthetic.Triton rally car - AXCR 2025 ChampionBased on the Triton pickup truck, this AXCR 2025 competition vehicle has been enhanced through weight reduction, suspension tuning, and improvements to engine performance and durability to withstand the extreme demands of cross‑country rallying. Driven by Chayapon Yotha and Peerapong Sombutwong, this Triton battled through eight days and approximately 2,300 kilometers of rugged terrain to reclaim the overall championship title for the first time in three years.Delica D:5 - AXCR 2025 support carLeveraging the Delica D:5’s inherent durability, handling, and off‑road capability, this vehicle served as a vital support car throughout the entire AXCR 2025 rally. The model on display is the actual vehicle driven by Team Director Hiroshi Masuoka during on‑site operations, navigating between start and finish points, mid‑stage service areas, and rugged course‑side terrain.Mitsubishi Motors’ special website for Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 (in Japanese only)https://www.mitsubishi-motors.co.jp/lineup/delica_custom/About Mitsubishi Motors Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (TSE:7211) — a member of the Alliance with Renault and Nissan — is a global automobile company based in Tokyo, Japan, which has about 28,000 employees and a global footprint with production facilities in Japan and the ASEAN region. Mitsubishi Motors has a competitive edge in SUVs, pickup trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and appeals to ambitious drivers willing to challenge convention and embrace innovation. Since the production of our first vehicle more than a century ago, Mitsubishi Motors has been a leader in electrification — launched the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in 2009, followed by the Outlander PHEV, the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV in 2013. With a target of increasing the sales ratio of electrified vehicles to 100% by 2035, Mitsubishi Motors will deliver models that embody Mitsubishi Motors-ness and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society. For more information on Mitsubishi Motors, please visit the company's website at https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/ Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
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by: jenn
Twenty-five Years Ago, One of the World’s Biggest MMORPGs Started as a Simple Browser Game
JagexFor video games, a 25-year lifespan is nearly unthinkably long. With countless new titles releasing weekly, a game staying in the public eye and for even a few years is a massive achievement—and remaining relevant for a quarter-century is almost unheard of. Only a handful of have managed to retain their popularity for nearly that long, and one game that just turned 25 has done so by honoring its origins even as it evolved continuously.When launched on January 4, 2001, it was a browser-based game run by two brothers operating out of their parents’ home. By the end of 2001, the developer Jagex was officially formed, and shortly thereafter, paid subscriptions were introduced. Over the next few years, RuneScape’s engine was rewritten twice, and a new graphical style was implemented.RuneScape has undergone numerous changes yet still retains its classic vibe. | JagexCompared to modern MMOs, RuneScape has a distinctly old-school feel, often coming off as directionless. While games like focus on ongoing storylines, RuneScape centers on the story players craft for themselves. After learning the basics, players are given free rein to do almost anything they choose—whether mastering its 20-plus skill trees, hunting high-level monsters, or aiding (or clashing with) fellow players as they see fit.Since RuneScape’s launch, Jagex has grown from a bedroom startup to a large developer that continues to expand its core MMO. Yet despite all the changes, RuneScape feels strikingly similar to the game that first launched from its creators’ home—a feat requiring significant intentional work from Jagex. Even with its outmoded freeform exploration, RuneScape has stayed committed to player autonomy and never strayed from its old-school roots.Unlike most modern MMORPGs, RuneScape prioritizes skill development over following a fixed storyline. | JagexToday, RuneScape exists as two distinct versions. The game now called RuneScape originated when its developers first rewrote the original engine—initially named RuneScape 2. Instead of replacing the original game, Jagex kept it running under RuneScape Classic, while the update eventually inherited the RuneScape name. Eventually, maintaining RuneScape Classic became more trouble than it was worth, as it grew less compatible with Jagex’s modern development tools.A few years before RuneScape Classic shut down, Jagex noticed players’ desire to keep some form of the game’s original vision alive. In 2013, the company ran a poll asking if players wanted a version based on older code preserving RuneScape as it was in August 2007. Players voted overwhelmingly yes, and Old School RuneScape was born. Still running alongside modern RuneScape, it evolves with new skills and updates just like the newer version—aiming to keep the hard-to-articulate vibe of a bygone era.Rooted in an older game version, Old School RuneScape remains popular today. | JagexIn some ways, both RuneScape versions are exercises in nostalgia—not for their own sake, but for what modern MMORPGs have left behind. Over time, RuneScape added microtransactions giving paying players advantages, but in 2025, Jagex let players vote on removing them. As expected, most voted to cut them. Like Old School RuneScape’s creation, this vote showed Jagex’s willingness to listen and fans’ desire to keep the franchise unique. That collective passion may well persist for another 25 years.
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by: grit
Mitsubishi Motors Launches the Xforce in Taiwan
Xforce Xforce Launch at Taipei Auto Show* TOKYO, Jan 6, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (hereafter, Mitsubishi Motors) announced that China Motor Corporation (CMC), its production and sales partner in Taiwan, is scheduled to begin sales of the Xforce compact SUV in January. Manufactured at CMC’s Yangmei Plant, this launch marks the first time in nine years that Mitsubishi Motors has introduced a newly developed, locally produced model to the Taiwanese market.The Xforce is a five-seater compact SUV that was developed based on the concept "Best-suited buddy for an exciting life." Following its launch in Indonesia in November 2023, the Xforce was introduced to other ASEAN countries such as Vietnam and the Philippines, as well as Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. As one of Mitsubishi Motors’ global strategic models, with cumulative sales of approximately 62,000 units, it has earned praise for its stylish yet robust SUV design, offering a spacious and comfortable five-passenger cabin while maintaining a maneuverable, compact body size.Produced locally in Taiwan by CMC for the Taiwanese market, this newly introduced Xforce meets the country’s Euro 6c emissions standards and offers distinctive features, including an integrated Level-2 equivalent advanced driver assistance system that combines Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) , a large 10.25-inch digital display, and a blue body color developed specifically for Taiwan.“We have developed a special version of the Xforce for the Taiwanese market, where we have worked alongside CMC for more than 60 years, to further strengthen our presence and enhance product value,“ said Tatsuo Nakamura, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors. ”After careful local research, we have created a model with greater value that we proudly stand behind. Reservations have already exceeded our initial projections, and we are truly excited to deliver this model to our customers in Taiwan.”*From left to right: Tatsuo Nakamura, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors; Hsin-Cheng Tseng, president at CMC.About Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors Corporation (TSE:7211) - a member of the Alliance with Renault and Nissan - is a global automobile company based in Tokyo, Japan, which has about 28,000 employees and a global footprint with production facilities in Japan and the ASEAN region. Mitsubishi Motors has a competitive edge in SUVs, pickup trucks and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and appeals to ambitious drivers willing to challenge convention and embrace innovation. Since the production of our first vehicle more than a century ago, Mitsubishi Motors has been a leader in electrification - launched the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicle in 2009, followed by the Outlander PHEV, the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric SUV in 2013. With a target of increasing the sales ratio of electrified vehicles to 100% by 2035, Mitsubishi Motors will deliver models that embody Mitsubishi Motors-ness and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society. For more information on Mitsubishi Motors, please visit the company's website at https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/ Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
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by: jenn
We Might Have Already Found the Most Ridiculous Sci-Fi Show of 2026
FX/HuluAt this point, you know what you’re going to get with . The TV icon may have started out with acclaimed shows like Nip/Tuck, Glee, and , but today he’s linked to a specific type of campy, over-the-top, glamorous drama that frequently casts actors from celebrity publications. From The Politician to Grostesquerie to the intriguingly engaging (yet awful) All’s Fair, a “Ryan Murphy show” has become its own subgenre. Now, Murphy is bringing this formula to sci-fi with an odd series titled The Beauty. It centers on an unusual sexually transmitted infection that transforms you into physical perfection. As Ashton Kutcher’s character puts it, “It's an STD people will actually desire.” Watch the full trailer here: The basic idea of a process that makes you perfect isn’t new—Netflix’s Uglies did it in 2024, to . Luckily, The Beauty has another strength: a murder mystery led by Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall, both of whom play their roles so earnestly that it clashes with the dialogue’s blatant excess. But not everyone got the message. The trailer alone features classic Ryan Murphy-style performances from Bella Hadid, Ashton Kutcher, Anthony Ramos, and even Isabella Rossellini—who’s familiar with magically restored beauty from a past film role. The supporting cast includes Lux Pascal (Pedro Pascal’s sister), Meghan Trainor, and Vincent D’Onofrio, making it a highly diverse ensemble, to put it mildly. Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall play detectives investigating a murder in The Beauty. | FX/HuluBased solely on the trailer, this could be one of the weirdest sci-fi shows of the year—and it’s only early 2026. Yet even though it seems absurd, I have to say—I’m genuinely excited for it. The appeal of Ryan Murphy’s shows lies in their light, exaggerated nature. No one watches these shows for gritty realism, but if The Beauty can offer a noir-style mystery alongside glamorous supermodel one-liners and body horror, that only enhances it. The Beauty premieres January 21 on FX on Hulu.
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by: jenn
Marvel’s Next Show May Finally Get Meta Storytelling Right in the MCU
Marvel StudiosMarvel Studios is fully aware of a certain phenomenon. The widely - debated decline in interest in epic superhero sagas has troubled the genre for a significant part of the decade, and Marvel's persistent desire to remain at the center of the discussion is partly to blame. Its cinematic universe once dominated pop culture, but since Avengers: Endgame, it has had a hard time justifying its own existence. Even self - aware jibes at the expense of the MCU, such as those in Deadpool & Wolverine or the less - than - stable She - Hulk: Attorney at Law, aren't sufficient to get the franchise back on track. These gestures are far too easy to see through, and they're just one aspect of what Marvel has been going through in its latest phases.Fortunately, the franchise finally seems to have regained its balance. Marvel's most recent projects have recaptured the sense of humor and emotional depth that fans missed from the early - phase MCU. The new concepts of Thunderbolts and The Fantastic Four: First Steps are playing their part. While Marvel is rebuilding some goodwill on the big screen, its small - screen projects continue to push the boundaries in terms of tone and scale. Next up is Wonder Man, a project that feels different from anything Marvel has attempted before, despite its somewhat uncomfortably familiar tone. With this new series, Marvel is delving back into meta - comedy, and the franchise might have finally found the solution.Wonder Man is approaching a well - known topic from an interesting perspective: Yahya Abdul - Mateen II portrays Simon Williams, a struggling, small - time actor eager to make it big. He's auditioning for the lead role in a reboot of Wonder Man, an old superhero property within the MCU. A respected director named Von Kovak (Zlato Burić) has come out of retirement to direct the film, and he's determined to recreate the original's low - key charm. This means using practical effects and natural performances, and most importantly, no superpowered actors. And that's a major problem for Simon, an enhanced individual (and an “extraordinary threat,” according to the... ) who's doing a poor job of hiding his powers.Marvel has fully committed to the meta element of Wonder Man by choosing the MCU's most notorious in - universe actor, Trevor Slattery (Ben Kingsley),... as Simon's unlikely mentor. Kingsley and Abdul - Mateen have even promoted the show in character, sitting down for an as Trevor and Simon. And surprisingly, it has really added an element of reality - blurring intrigue to Wonder Man.Wonder Man may be self - aware, but it doesn't lose sight of personal stakes. | Marvel StudiosA large part of the show is set to offer a sincere commentary on Marvel's struggles with superhero fatigue, and its latest trailer even addresses the phenomenon directly. What seems to distinguish Wonder Man from its predecessors is its willingness to be taken seriously. Parody has only gotten Marvel so far. Sure, Wonder Man has a lot of humor, but the personal stakes are high. Simon feels like a real person, with genuine fears, regrets, and a dangerous secret. By focusing on his journey, Wonder Man has the opportunity to build on the success of projects like WandaVision and Thunderbolts. It's not just satire for the sake of satire, and that might make it one of Marvel's most successful stories in a long time.Wonder Man premieres on January 27 on Disney+.
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by: jenn
Experts Recommend These Tools to Help Manage Sleep Apnea
While advice for better sleep is abundant, ranging from keeping your phone in another room to using blackout curtains and white noise machines, these "hacks" are insufficient when sleep apnea is involved. The problem after you fall asleep cannot be fully offset by simple bedtime tricks.For those diagnosed with or suspecting they have sleep apnea, the primary concern shifts from how fast you fall asleep to whether your sleep is genuinely restorative.Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) leads to repeated breathing interruptions or reductions during the night, causing blood oxygen levels to drop and frequent brief awakenings that ruin sleep quality. A significant number of cases are believed to go undiagnosed. Without treatment, OSA is associated with serious health risks such as heart disease, cognitive decline, diabetes, and a higher chance of accidents due to persistent tiredness.The gold standard treatment is , which delivers pressurized air to maintain an open airway during sleep. However, as noted by , a dentist from Austin focused on dental sleep medicine, CPAP is not suitable for all patients. Even for those who use it, clinical adherence is measured at only four hours per night, four nights weekly—far less than a full night's sleep.Although more intensive solutions like jaw surgery or implants are available, they are expensive and not a practical or desirable choice for many. The initial step remains a correct diagnosis and advice from a doctor or sleep expert.For individuals seeking extra help, we consulted three sleep specialists for their recommended tools and devices to enhance sleep quality, with benefits that can begin immediately.Positional Pillows“Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are frequently more severe when sleeping on one's back. A standard conservative method is positional therapy, which encourages patients to avoid back-sleeping. While various aids are available, people often begin with a simple solution like using pillows to prevent rolling onto their back.” - , Professor of Head and Neck Surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLANasal Strips & Dilators “External nasal strips and internal nasal dilators can decrease nasal resistance, potentially reducing snoring or mild breathing obstructions for certain individuals, especially those with congestion or narrow nasal passages.” , Triple-Board-Certified Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine PhysicianSaline Rinses & Nasal Sprays“Routine saline rinses and, if suitable, medicated nasal sprays can enhance nasal airflow and improve tolerance for Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy or oral appliances,” Kole adds. Oral Appliances“Custom-fitted, adjustable mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are worn on the teeth to gently pull the jaw and tongue forward, which physically widens the airway. They are especially beneficial for mild-to-moderate OSA or for patients who cannot use PAP therapy,” Kole states. Kole stresses that sleep apnea tools and devices work best when selected carefully, based on a person's specific physical structure, symptom severity, and individual preferences. A universal approach does not exist for managing sleep apnea.Consulting with a physician or sleep specialist is key to identifying the most suitable options for your situation.Presented by BDG Studios
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by: jenn
Why You Wake Up Fatigued Even After 8 Hours of Sleep
You checked all the boxes: hit the sack on time, skipped the doomscrolling, and even got a full eight hours of sleep. So why do you still wake up feeling like you barely rested at all?Nearly fails to get sufficient rest, and it’s easy to point fingers at common culprits. Screens slow down melatonin production. Stress keeps the brain active and buzzing. Late nights gradually turn into a habit. Any of these can throw sleep off track.But if you follow solid sleep routines and still wake up groggy, mentally foggy, and dragging through your day, it’s often a sign that something more fundamental is disrupting your sleep at its core.One of the most prevalent yet underdiagnosed culprits? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).The Hidden Sleep Disorder That Leaves You DrainedObstructive sleep apnea impacts in the U.S., and . Defined by episodes of breathing pauses during sleep, OSA is a sleep-related breathing disorder caused by repeated narrowing or collapse of the upper airway while you sleep.When the airway narrows or closes completely, breathing either becomes dangerously shallow (hypopnea) or stops altogether (apnea). These episodes lower blood oxygen levels and , sometimes dozens of times each hour.Beyond disrupting sleep, untreated OSA is tied to severe health risks—such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and metabolic disorders. That’s why identifying it early isn’t just about getting better rest; it’s about safeguarding your long-term health.How Sleep Apnea Actually Impacts Your Sleep QualityUnfortunately, spending a full night in bed doesn’t always mean you’ll wake up feeling refreshed. As explains, the problem lies in sleep quality—not just the amount of time you’re asleep.Board-certified sleep, pulmonary, and critical care physician Kole points out that those with OSA experience repeated airway collapse while sleeping, leading to short breathing pauses or shallow airflow all night long. Moderate sleep apnea is categorized as 15 to 29 breathing disruptions per hour, whereas severe apnea involves 30 or more interruptions each hour.“These episodes cause drops in blood oxygen, sudden stress responses, and fragment sleep as the brain repeatedly ‘rescues’ breathing with brief awakenings,” she explains.Over time, these ongoing disruptions prevent truly restorative sleep, often resulting in loud, disruptive snoring and extreme daytime tiredness—even after what seems like a full night’s sleep.Why You Don’t Remember Waking UpIf your breathing stopped 15 or more times an hour, you’d probably think you’d notice. But most people don’t.Each apnea or hypopnea episode triggers what Kole calls a micro-arousal—a split-second alert in the brain that restores breathing without fully waking the person sleeping.“Micro-arousals usually don’t reach full conscious awareness,” Kole explains, “but they repeatedly pull the sleeper out of deep, restorative sleep stages.”Throughout the night, repeated oxygen drops and surges in the body’s “fight or flight” response keep the brain in a constant state of alertness, preventing sustained deep non-REM and REM sleep, according to Kole. The outcome? People wake up exhausted with no memory of what disrupted their sleep.While these disruptions are usually too short—often less than 10 seconds—to wake the person having them, they’re often loud enough to wake anyone nearby. Snoring, gasping, and choking sounds are common warning signs reported by bed partners.Morning Symptoms You Shouldn’t Brush OffSleep apnea does more than drain your energy before your day even starts. The daytime sleepiness and fatigue it causes can lead to issues with learning, concentration, and reaction times. This makes daily tasks like driving more dangerous, and work or school more challenging than necessary., such as dry mouth, morning headaches, insomnia, and even sexual dysfunction or reduced libido.If left untreated, OSA can lead to more severe long-term health risks—including high blood pressure, heart disease, and declining mental health—underscoring the importance of early detection and treatment.What to Do If You Think You Have Sleep ApneaIf you follow good sleep hygiene but still wake up with mental fog and ongoing fatigue, your sleep might not be as restorative as you believe. Making an appointment with a doctor or sleep specialist can help uncover what’s really happening. Diagnosis usually involves a sleep study—done either in a lab or at home—that monitors breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep stages to spot disruptions like sleep apnea.Once diagnosed, managing OSA includes such as diet, exercise, avoiding alcohol and smoking, adjusting sleep position, and possible treatments like a CPAP machine or medication.Either way, seeking answers brings you closer to figuring out what’s messing with your sleep—and closer to finally waking up feeling rested.Presented by BDG Studios