Russia intensifies attacks on Kiev; Chile votes and Trump

Russia launches largest air strike against Kiev in weeks.

Moscow fired approximately 430 drones and 18 missiles at the Ukrainian capital on the night of November 15th, in a large-scale attack that lasted into the early morning. The bombardment included ballistic and aeroballistic missiles, as confirmed by President Volodymyr Zelensky, who described the operation as deliberately calculated to cause maximum damage to civilians and infrastructure.

The attack left at least six dead and about 30 wounded, including two children and a pregnant woman. Fires were reported in residential buildings in several districts of Kyiv. The offensive comes at a critical moment, as Russian forces gain ground in the south of the country, with Ukrainian troops withdrawing from several villages in Zaporizia after intense fighting.

Chile elects new president in polarized vote.

Chileans vote this Sunday, November 16, to choose their next president in an election marked by political polarization and concerns about public safety. The Communist Party candidate, Yanet Hara, leads in the polls for the first round, but simulations indicate she would lose in all second-round scenarios.

The main contender is José António Caz, from the far-right, who capitalizes on the discourse about combating organized crime and migration. The election succeeds the mandate of Gabriel Boric, from the left, whose reform promises did not fully materialize. If no candidate reaches 50% of the votes this Sunday, a second round is scheduled for December 14th.

Trump cuts food tariffs to curb inflation.

US President Donald Trump signed a tariff exemption for coffee, meat, and tropical fruits, partially backtracking on his protectionist policy. The measure aims to contain the pressure on food prices in the American market and should benefit Brazilian exports of these products.

The decision represents a softening of Trump's initial stance, which had signaled widespread tariff increases. The exemption seeks to balance trade policy objectives with domestic inflationary concerns.

COP30 in Belém: global climate march and financing negotiations

Belém was the stage for a large global climate march on Saturday, November 15th, bringing together traditional forest communities, international leaders, and social movements. Ministers Marina Silva and Sônia Guajajara participated in the event.

Meanwhile, COP30 negotiators are facing impasses over climate finance and ambitious targets. A press conference scheduled to announce progress has been postponed, with negotiators still stuck in meetings. The central theme remains the pressure for more robust commitments from developed countries.

Photo by Eugenia Pan'kiv on Unsplash