Singapore hangs drug trafficker, third such execution in a week  

Al Jazeera,

Singapore has executed a convicted drug trafficker, marking the third such execution within a week. Rosman Abdullah, 55, was hanged for trafficking 57.43 grams of heroin into the city-state, despite appeals for clemency from the United Nations. The execution took place on Friday at Changi Prison, a week after two other individuals, a 39-year-old Malaysian and a 53-year-old Singaporean, were also executed for similar crimes. Singapore, which imposes the death penalty for drug trafficking, defends the practice as a deterrent against drug abuse, though UN experts have criticized the handling of Rosman’s case, particularly his intellectual disabilities, and called for more accommodations during his trial. Since the resumption of executions in March 2022, Singapore has executed 24 individuals, with eight of those executions occurring this year.

Mexico acknowledges Canada’s concerns about a Chinese auto plant, but says none exists  

AP News,

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding a Chinese auto plant reportedly planned in Mexico. Sheinbaum clarified that such a plant does not exist, addressing concerns raised by Canada regarding Chinese investment and its potential to sidestep tariffs under the US-Mexico-Canada agreement. While Trudeau has expressed support for keeping Mexico in the trade pact, he has also hinted at exploring alternative options depending on Mexico’s future decisions. This follows concerns from U.S. and Canadian politicians about Chinese parts being assembled in Mexico and exported under the guise of Mexican origin, potentially disrupting job markets in North America. Sheinbaum dismissed these concerns as politically motivated, suggesting they are used as leverage in Canadian domestic politics.

Trump chooses loyalist Pam Bondi for attorney general pick after Matt Gaetz withdraws

AP News,

President-elect Donald Trump announced that he would nominate former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to lead the Justice Department, following Matt Gaetz’s withdrawal from consideration due to ongoing sex trafficking allegations. Bondi, a steadfast ally of Trump, has previously defended him in his first impeachment trial and has been a vocal critic of legal actions against the former president. Gaetz’s withdrawal stemmed from concerns over his limited experience and the controversy surrounding the sex trafficking investigation. Bondi’s nomination reflects Trump’s preference for loyalty, though her confirmation may face scrutiny, particularly given her past controversies. The swift change in nominees underscores the unpredictability of Trump’s decision-making process, which has raised concerns about the vetting of appointees during the presidential transition.
North Korea’s Kim accuses US of stoking tension, warns of nuclear war  

Reuters,

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has warned of the risk of nuclear war, accusing the United States of escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Speaking at a military exhibition in Pyongyang, Kim emphasized the increasing threat of conflict, noting that the situation had never been more dangerous. He stated that North Korea had exhausted all options for diplomacy with the U.S., which he described as “aggressive and hostile.” Kim also called for the development of advanced weaponry to bolster North Korea’s defense capabilities, showcasing various missiles and drones at the event. This comes amid growing concerns over North Korea’s military collaboration with Russia, including the supply of arms to support the Russian invasion of Ukraine. While diplomatic efforts have failed to produce tangible results in the past, Kim’s comments suggest a potential openness to talks if the U.S. adopts a less hostile stance.