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Man Surrenders After Dramatic 10km Police Chase in Samut Prakan Picture courtesy of Khaosod A man turned himself in after a wild, 10-kilometer police chase through Samut Prakan, leaving two officers injured. The high-speed pursuit began on December 17 and ended with the suspect, identified as 23-year-old Warut, surrendering to Samrong Tai Police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382177-man-surrenders-after-dramatic-10km-police-chase-in-samut-prakan/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A man turned himself in after a wild, 10-kilometer police chase through Samut Prakan, leaving two officers injured. The high-speed pursuit began on December 17 and ended with the suspect, identified as 23-year-old Warut, surrendering to Samrong Tai Police. It all started when police spotted a modified red Toyota Yaris behaving suspiciously on Pu Chao Saming Phrai Road. Instead of stopping, the driver sped into an alley and continued onto the Bhumibol 2 Bridge, leading officers through a wild chase. During the pursuit, the Yaris collided with a police motorcycle, injuring both of the officers on board. Later, police discovered an abandoned Yaris with visible damage and a blown-out tire. Inside, police found a grass-cutting blade, but the driver was not immediately present. Warut soon arrived at the police station, confessed to driving the car, and faced questioning. Tests showed no drugs or alcohol in his system. The injured officers, Police Sergeant Major Thanapon Samerjai and Police Lance Corporal Phathaikit Krueaboon, received hospital treatment for their injuries. Warut explained his panic upon seeing police, as he was drinking and had the blade for self-defence. He admitted to fleeing but claimed he only swerved to avoid another vehicle, inadvertently causing the crash. Warut now faces charges including reckless driving and failing to comply with police orders. He claimed he was searching for his wife during the incident. In a similar recent case, a motorcycle taxi rider ran a red light, leading to another chase and passenger injury, reported The Thaiger. Key Takeaways High-speed chase in Samut Prakan resulted in injuries to two officers. Suspect Warut surrendered and faces charges related to the incident. Police recovered the suspect’s abandoned vehicle with a blade inside. Related story: Pedestrian Overpass Collapses Onto Vehicles in Samut Prakan Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-19

Dutch Rider Fatally Crashes into Parked Pickup in Chon Buri Picture courtesy of Matichon A tragic motorcycle accident in Chon Buri claimed the life of a 54-year-old Dutch man in the early hours of December 18. The incident occurred when the motorcyclist allegedly collided with a parked pickup truck with a trailer near Khao Pho Thong Temple in the Pong sub-district of Bang Lamung. Emergency services, including the Sawang Borriboon Dhammastan Foundation and local police, rushed to the scene, but sadly, the rider was pronounced dead on-site. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382176-dutch-rider-fatally-crashes-into-parked-pickup-in-chon-buri/

Picture courtesy of Matichon A tragic motorcycle accident in Chon Buri claimed the life of a 54-year-old Dutch man in the early hours of December 18. The incident occurred when the motorcyclist allegedly collided with a parked pickup truck with a trailer near Khao Pho Thong Temple in the Pong sub-district of Bang Lamung. Emergency services, including the Sawang Borriboon Dhammastan Foundation and local police, rushed to the scene, but sadly, the rider was pronounced dead on-site. The victim, identified by his clothing—a white sweater with black stripes and black shorts—suffered multiple scratches and a severe head injury. Despite immediate CPR and medical assistance, rescuers were unable to revive him. His overturned Yamaha Aerox 155 motorcycle was found about 10 metres from his body, indicating the force of the crash. Jeerasak Salathong, a 40-year-old witness and owner of the pickup, reported the crash happened around 1.30 am. He heard a loud noise from his home and saw the motorcycle losing control at high speed before hitting the rear trailer. The collision was so strong that the rider's body slid over 20 metres from the impact site. Jeerasak initially thought a stray dog was involved but discovered the rider and alerted the authorities. Police are investigating by reviewing CCTV footage to ascertain the cause, focusing on speed and other potential factors. Meanwhile, the motorcycle has been taken to Nong Prue Police Station for further examination, and the rider's body was transported to Pattamakun Hospital for an official autopsy, reported The Thaiger. Key Takeaways A 54-year-old Dutch man died in a motorcycle crash in Chon Buri. The crash involved a collision with a parked pickup truck's trailer. Police are assessing CCTV footage to determine the crash's cause. Related Stories: Two Killed in Sri Racha After Motorbike Hits Parked Truck Motorcyclist Killed in Collision with Van in Chonburi Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-19

French Tourists' AI-Edited Pictures Cause Phuket Drama Picture via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ French tourists allegedly used artificial intelligence (AI) to alter photos from a Phuket boat trip in order to claim a refund, sparking significant controversy. The Facebook page Phuket Times reported this incident on December 18. The tourists supposedly edited photos to depict the boat as old and poorly maintained, aiming to secure a refund from the travel agency they used. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382122-french-tourists-ai-edited-pictures-cause-phuket-drama/

Bang Na–Trat Footbridge Collapse Caused by Raised Truck Bed Kills One Picture courtesy of BrightTV A pedestrian footbridge collapsed on the inbound Bang Na–Trat Road towards Bangkok on 18 December 2025, leaving one person dead and another critically injured. The incident caused major disruption as emergency services closed parts of the carriageway to manage the scene and assist the victims. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382109-pedestrian-overpass-collapses-onto-vehicles-in-samut-prakan/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 19 December 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1382110-thailand-live-friday-19-december-2025/

Thai English Proficiency Slips Further Down Global Rankings Thailand's position in global English proficiency has taken a hit, according to the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index. Ranked 116th out of 123 countries, Thailand fell into the "very low proficiency" category with a score of 402. This represents a significant drop of 13 points from the previous year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382107-thai-english-proficiency-slips-further-down-global-rankings/

video screenshot US President Donald Trump delivered a 20-minute speech from the Oval Office on Wednesday night. The address aimed to set his economic record against that of his predecessor, US President Joe Biden. Although it lacked new information, it highlighted Trump's strategy to critique Biden's handling of the economy. 1. Biden Takes the Spotlight A key element of Trump's address was the heavy focus on Biden. Trump highlighted the economic challenges he inherited, pointing to inflation and other economic issues from Biden's term. "Eleven months ago, I inherited a mess, and I’m fixing it,” he declared, stressing that Biden's name would be central to his narrative. 2. Mixed Delivery and Advised Approach Despite Trump's advisers advocating for a focus on economic concerns, his delivery revealed a lack of heart. He spoke rapidly, often stumbling over words, resulting in a less engaging presentation. Despite efforts to address affordability issues, the speech felt more like a rushed checklist than a compelling dialogue with the audience. 3. Factual Slip-Ups Highlighted As usual, Trump's speech included several factual errors, detracting from his main points. He made false claims about crime and immigration under Biden's presidency and inflated the numbers for inflation. Furthermore, claims of drug prices plummeting by hundreds of percentage points and erroneous immigration statistics further clouded the picture. 4. Primetime Strategy and Political Concerns Choosing a primetime slot for this speech appears to reflect concerns about Trump's political standing. The address was intended to reassure viewers by highlighting military dividends and vague housing reform promises for the new year. However, the lack of detailed plans left many questions unanswered, suggesting the event may have been more about political positioning than policy revelation, reported CNN. Key Takeaways: Trump's focus on Biden aimed to leverage perceived economic failings for political gain. Delivery issues and factual errors overshadowed the intended impact. The primetime airing hints at White House worries over Trump's current political status. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-12-18

French Tourists' AI-Edited Pictures Cause Phuket Drama Picture via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ French tourists allegedly used artificial intelligence (AI) to alter photos from a Phuket boat trip in order to claim a refund, sparking significant controversy. The Facebook page Phuket Times reported this incident on December 18. The tourists supposedly edited photos to depict the boat as old and poorly maintained, aiming to secure a refund from the travel agency they used. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382122-french-tourists-ai-edited-pictures-cause-phuket-drama/

Picture via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ French tourists allegedly used artificial intelligence (AI) to alter photos from a Phuket boat trip in order to claim a refund, sparking significant controversy. The Facebook page Phuket Times reported this incident on December 18. The tourists supposedly edited photos to depict the boat as old and poorly maintained, aiming to secure a refund from the travel agency they used. The AI-enhanced images reportedly showed various parts of the boat in disrepair. An inflatable slide appeared worn and damaged; a bathroom seemed filthy, with rubbish strewn about; and one photo showed a mouldy banana. Despite these claims, another image surfaced from the same trip, showing the tourists having a good time on the boat, which throws doubt on their complaints. Picture via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ The travel agency has not provided a response to the refund claim or the trip cost. The company involved has yet to release an official statement regarding the accusations or the status of any refunds given. The revelation incited significant backlash among Thai netizens, with many urging authorities to take legal steps against the tourists for allegedly fabricating their complaints. This deceitful behaviour, many argue, risks tarnishing the image of Phuket's tourism industry, which is known for its hospitality and beauty. Local business owners echoed these concerns, sharing personal experiences in the comment section. One hotel owner recounted a similar case of French guests demanding a refund despite satisfactory service. Another hotel operator revealed a case where guests departed without settling a bill and later left a negative online review. The issue appears to be more widespread, with a Thai restaurant owner also commenting on foreign customers falsely claiming dissatisfaction in order to obtain refunds. These incidents underline the challenges faced by tourism operators in distinguishing between legitimate and fraudulent complaints, reported The Thaiger. Key Takeaways French tourists allegedly used AI to doctor photos from a Phuket trip. Contradictory images present them enjoying the trip, raising doubts. Thai netizens demand action to protect Phuket's tourism reputation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-12-18

Thai English Proficiency Slips Further Down Global Rankings Thailand's position in global English proficiency has taken a hit, according to the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index. Ranked 116th out of 123 countries, Thailand fell into the "very low proficiency" category with a score of 402. This represents a significant drop of 13 points from the previous year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382107-thai-english-proficiency-slips-further-down-global-rankings/

file photo Thailand's position in global English proficiency has taken a hit, according to the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index. Ranked 116th out of 123 countries, Thailand fell into the "very low proficiency" category with a score of 402. This represents a significant drop of 13 points from the previous year. Based on data from 2.2 million test takers aged 26 on average, the EF Index ranks countries on their English proficiency skills. While English remains the top language for international communication, global proficiency hasn't improved since 2020. Countries continue to invest in English education, but progress is uneven, with reading skills generally being the strongest and speaking the weakest worldwide. The report highlights a skill gap, with reading as the strongest skill and speaking as the weakest in many countries. However, in Thailand, reading scores were the best at 416, while speaking lagged at 377, and writing scored the lowest at 363. Proficiency among the youngest adults hasn't reached pre-pandemic levels. European nations dominate the global rankings, with the Netherlands leading, followed by Croatia and Austria. Within Asia, Malaysia topples over others, ranking 24th globally, while Thailand is second to last in the region. Pattaya emerged as the top-performing city in Thailand with a score of 474, surpassing Bangkok's 467. Age-wise, the 26–30 category showed the highest proficiency with an average score of 481. Notably, proficiency among 18–20-year-olds has dropped significantly since 2018, pointing to potential areas for further improvement in education, reported Prachatai. Map courtesy of Prachatai Key Takeaways Thailand ranks 116th globally in English proficiency, scoring 402. Speaking remains the weakest skill, whereas reading scores are highest. Proficiency has decreased significantly among younger age groups post-pandemic. Related story: Thailand Ranked 106th in English Proficiency Out of 116 Countries Adapted by ASEAN Now from Prachatai 2025-12-18

China Sends Envoy to Mediate Thailand–Cambodia Border Clash China has dispatched its special envoy to Thailand and Cambodia today to mediate the escalating border clash between the two nations. The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Thailand announced on Facebook that China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict. As a neighbour to both countries, China has taken an active role in promoting dialogue and reducing tension, with the envoy playing a crucial diplomatic role. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382106-china-sends-envoy-to-mediate-thailand–cambodia-border-clash/

China has dispatched its special envoy to Thailand and Cambodia today to mediate the escalating border clash between the two nations. The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Thailand announced on Facebook that China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict. As a neighbour to both countries, China has taken an active role in promoting dialogue and reducing tension, with the envoy playing a crucial diplomatic role. This marks another visit for the special envoy, who is expected to arrive in Cambodia and Thailand on December 18. The mission is to enable discussions between the two sides, encouraging peace talks with the aim of bringing stability and swift peace back to the region. China has committed to help both countries address their differences through diplomatic channels, underlining its friendship with both nations. Amidst the tensions, reports emerged that Thai troops had seized military equipment, including Chinese-made anti-tank missiles, from Cambodian soldiers during the clashes. In response, a Chinese spokesperson clarified that China's defence cooperation with both Thailand and Cambodia is longstanding and not targeted at third parties or related to the ongoing conflict. Defusing concerns about China's involvement and maintaining its neutral stance in the border dispute was the aim of this statement. Key Takeaways China's special envoy is visiting to mediate Thai-Cambodian border tensions. Chinese-made military equipment was reportedly seized by Thai troops. China maintains its defence ties are not related to the conflict. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-12-18

Bangkok Prison Scandal: VIP Perks and Prostitution Unveiled file photo The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has concluded its probe into the "Chinese VIP" scandal at Bangkok Remand Prison, forwarding the explosive findings to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The scandal charges former prison chief Manop Chomchuen and his secretary, Traiphol Sikiaowkae, with abuse of authority. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1382103-bangkok-prison-scandal-vip-perks-and-prostitution-unveiled/

file photo The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has concluded its probe into the "Chinese VIP" scandal at Bangkok Remand Prison, forwarding the explosive findings to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The scandal charges former prison chief Manop Chomchuen and his secretary, Traiphol Sikiaowkae, with abuse of authority. Both officials stand accused of granting improper privileges to certain inmates and facilitating acts of prostitution within the prison, violations of the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act. This case emerged after a joint raid on 24 November by the Central Institute of Forensic Science, the DSI, and the Department of Corrections, following allegations of unlawful privileges granted to Chinese inmates. The investigation unearthed substantial evidence, including forensic findings and witness testimonies. Examinations highlighted third-party fingerprints and traces of semen, supporting claims of prostitution during unauthorised visits. In response to these revelations, the Ministry of Justice suspended six prison officials, including the former chief, his secretary, a division director, and three wardens. Additionally, the DSI unearthed evidence implicating a well-known male lawyer from Samut Prakan. He allegedly coordinated visits for Chinese inmates, with his name frequently appearing in records associated with over 1,000 prisoners. Financial investigations revealed transactions worth hundreds of millions of Thai baht through companies linked to him, though no direct payments were traced to former prison chief Manop Chomchuen. Assistant NACC secretary-general, Phattanapong Chanpetchpoon, acknowledged the receipt of the case file. The NACC will now review the details before determining the next steps, which may involve further legal action against the accused, reported the Bangkok Post Key Takeaways: Former prison chief and his secretary face abuse of authority charges. Evidence of prostitution and unauthorised privileges emerged from the forensic findings. A prominent lawyer implicated in coordinating inmate visits linked to hundreds of prisoners. Related Story: Bangkok Prison Probed for VIP Perks and Sex Workers for Inmates Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-18

video screenshot In a significant admission, the US government has accepted liability for a catastrophic midair collision involving a military helicopter and a commercial passenger jet just outside Washington. The US Department of Justice filed a 209-page court document detailing the tragic event that claimed the lives of 67 individuals. The admission comes as part of a civil lawsuit by a victim’s family against the government and involved airlines. The crash unfolded on January 29, when an American Eagle airliner approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter. Both aircraft plummeted into the freezing Potomac River, marking the deadliest US commercial flight crash in decades. Consequently, enhanced air safety measures were implemented at Reagan Airport to avert such disasters. According to court documents, the US government conceded that it breached its duty of care, leading to the tragic accident. The admission underscored the inevitability of midair collisions near the airport. Moreover, the admission pointed to failures by the Army Black Hawk pilots in avoiding the collision, a primary cause of the disaster. Fault was also attributed to an air traffic controller at the airport who allegedly violated federal regulations. The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted earlier investigations that suggested equipment malfunctions and communication failures contributed to the crash. The controller's muffled warning and lack of urgent instructions to the helicopter before the collision were crucial points highlighted in the preliminary report. A final report from the ongoing NTSB investigation could take up to a year to complete. This ongoing inquiry seeks to understand the circumstances fully leading to the deadly crash and propose measures to prevent a recurrence. Key Takeaways: The US government admitted liability for the deadly air collision near DC. 67 people died when a military helicopter and passenger jet collided. Failures by pilots and air traffic control were cited as causes of the crash. Related Story: Midair Collision Near Reagan National Sends Plane into Potomac River Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-18

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia Policymakers at the Bank of England are expected to reduce interest rates from 4% to 3.75%, marking the sixth adjustment since August last year. This decision, anticipated by analysts, aims to address the economic challenge of rising inflation, though it may not be unanimous among the nine-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). The Bank rate significantly affects borrowing costs for consumers and interest returns for savers. Current intentions align with the MPC's objective to maintain inflation at 2%. With a recent drop in the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) to 3.2% in November, down from 3.6% in October, the committee might lean towards a rate cut to tackle persisting economic stagnation and increasing unemployment. During the last MPC meeting, a narrow decision was made to maintain rates, with Governor Andrew Bailey advocating a wait-and-see approach. However, the current inflation dip gives confidence to analysts like James Smith from ING, who sees the current drop as a "green light" for a rate cut. Smith also predicts additional reductions in February and April next year, though not all experts concur. A reduction in the Bank rate directly impacts mortgage holders; approximately 500,000 homeowners with tracker mortgages could see a decrease of about 1,245 Thai baht in monthly repayments. Similarly, homeowners on standard variable rates may experience savings of around 601 Thai baht per month, provided banks pass on the cuts. Despite the relief for borrowers, savers might face diminished returns, with current easy-access savings account rates averaging 2.56%. Key Takeaways: Bank of England expected to cut interest rates to 3.75%. Recent CPI inflation drop to 3.2% influences MPC's decision. Borrowers may benefit from reduced rates; savers are likely to see lower returns. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-18

video screenshot Protests erupted in Epping, a London suburb, following the arrest of an Ethiopian asylum seeker for sexual assault. Residents called for action against the Bell Hotel, which houses asylum seekers, leading to chaos and violence. Four men pleaded guilty to violent disorder, highlighting deep tensions surrounding migration in Britain. The protest reflects broader unrest, echoing the 2024 riots when a hotel for asylum seekers was set ablaze. Orla Minihane, a local mother, launched the Pink Ladies to shift the narrative. Focusing on women, the movement protests illegal migration’s perceived dangers, aligning with Reform UK, a populist party promising stricter immigration policies. The Pink Ladies, though small, are growing, donning pink attire to peacefully yet boldly voice their fears. Minihane portrays them as mothers concerned for safety, attracting attention through social media and word of mouth. Critics, however, suggest the movement masks a right-wing agenda beneath its community-focused facade. Despite criticism, the Pink Ladies continue their campaign, attending protests like one in Chelmsford where 200 joined. Their message, "Britain is under attack," resonates with those disillusioned by major political parties. Minihane insists she's merely a concerned mother using her voice against illegal migration threats. Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, seeks to broaden its appeal to women, historically under-represented in party support. Recent electoral gains showcase this shift, with women now playing prominent roles at party events. Despite no formal ties to the Pink Ladies, their concerns dovetail with Reform’s renewed emphasis on women’s safety. The Pink Ladies’ protests focus on high-profile incidents, yet government crime data does not support claims of increased threats from asylum seekers. This gap fuels fears and speculation, with demonstrators demanding military intervention. Meanwhile, broader issues, such as domestic violence, remain overlooked in the discourse. Minihane’s protests often include vigils for victims she links to immigration issues. However, her assertions lack corroborative evidence, underscoring the movement's emotionally charged yet contentious nature. As tensions simmer, the Pink Ladies remain a focal point in Britain’s ongoing immigration debate, reported CNN. Key Takeaways Protests in Epping against asylum seeker housing led to violence. Pink Ladies, a women-led movement, opposes illegal migration. Reform UK gains support among women, highlighting safety concerns. Related Stories: High Court Defeats Epping Council Bid to Evict Asylum Seekers Epping Hotel Row Heats Up Amid Protests and Legal Clash Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-12-18

Pictures courtesy of Yahoo The White House has installed plaques on its exterior criticising US president Donald Trump's predecessors, Joe Biden and Barack Obama. These controversial inscriptions accompany portraits on the "Presidential Walk of Fame," added by Trump. The plaques contain disparaging remarks, promoting disinformation about prior administrations. Background details reveal Trump himself crafted the inscriptions. A statement by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt praised the plaques as historical summaries. A particularly controversial plaque under Biden's label calls him “Sleepy Joe” and critiques his presidency, disputing the 2020 election's integrity and condemning his policies. The plaques have stirred a varied response. Biden's office abstained from commenting, while Obama's team has yet to respond. Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed disturbances at the installation, emphasising the title's respect regardless of political disagreements, while Senator Lindsey Graham downplayed the plaques' significance, pointing instead to election concerns. Looking ahead, these installations may impact political dialogues and public opinion. However, the White House has not commented on financial or logistical details of the project. As debates continue, these plaques remain an emblem of ongoing political tension, reported NBC News. Picture courtesy of Mark Schiefelbein / AP | via NBC News Key Takeaways: White House plaques disparage Biden and Obama under Trump. Trump authored many of the plaques’ inscriptions. Varied political reactions highlight ongoing tensions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBC News 2025-12-18

Mark Rutte. Courtesy of the Brussels Times | Belga / Eric Lalmand NATO's pledge to allocate 5% of its national output to defence is being hailed as Donald Trump's most significant foreign policy triumph, according to alliance chief Mark Rutte. In a revealing BBC interview, Rutte credited Trump with strengthening NATO, emphasising his positive impact on collective defence and support for Ukraine amid mounting tensions with Russia. The US leader has been vocal about European countries' low defence spending, even threatening to withhold US military protection without increased commitment. Tensions have risen as Nato's chief cautioned about a possible Russian attack on allies within five years—an assertion dismissed by Russia's President Vladimir Putin as "pure nonsense." Putin has accused the West of fabricating a Russian threat, dismissing it as "hysteria." Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Putin claimed four Ukrainian regions, further solidifying control over much of Luhansk, while demanding Ukraine's retreat from parts of Donetsk. Putin insists on achieving objectives of the so-called "special military operation," potentially by military means if diplomacy fails. Rutte reflects on the insanity of Putin's ambition to reclaim land lost during the Soviet Union era, highlighting the devastating human toll, with 1.1 million Russian casualties. The US's negotiations with Ukraine involve a controversial Trump-proposed peace plan, ceding some territory while offering security guarantees similar to Nato's mutual protection clause. In ongoing discussions, Nato aims to deter further Russian aggression with strong security measures. European allies joined Ukrainian President Zelensky in Berlin to explore forming a European-led force. This initiative aims to regenerate Ukraine's forces and secure its skies and seas, signifying a collaborative effort to defend Ukraine against potential threats, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Nato members pledge to spend 5% on defence, credited to Trump. Tension with Russia rises amid Nato warnings and territorial disputes. European allies propose collaborative efforts to support Ukraine. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-18

video screenshot Roman Abramovich is under increasing pressure from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to honour his commitments and allocate £2.5 billion from the sale of Chelsea Football Club to aid victims of the war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised these funds in 2022, but they remain in limbo due to disagreements over their exact use. The UK government insists the money goes to humanitarian efforts, while Abramovich wants it available for "all victims of the war," including Russians. Starmer delivered a severe warning to Abramovich, stating in the Commons that the time for action is rapidly approaching. This follows the UK granting a licence to transfer the funds, though they remain frozen and inaccessible to Abramovich under UK sanctions. Should Abramovich fail to act, the UK is poised to pursue legal action to distribute the money to those affected by the war. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also emphasised the urgency of the situation, advising against any legal stalling by Abramovich, while reiterating the government's resolve to pursue court action if necessary. Abramovich’s representatives have refrained from commenting, while the Treasury clarified that the funds must not benefit Abramovich or any sanctioned individual. Chancellor Rachel Reeves highlighted the immorality of the substantial sum languishing unused. Reports indicate that Abramovich, who sold Chelsea under special conditions, has 90 days to resolve the issue before legal measures take place. Meanwhile, the European Union is set to review plans to use frozen Russian assets to boost Ukraine's economy and defence, a move strongly opposed by Russia, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways Sir Keir Starmer urges Abramovich to release pledged funds for Ukraine. Dispute centres on how the £2.5bn from the Chelsea sale should be allocated. Abramovich risks legal action if he fails to act within 90 days. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-18

File photo for reference only The US Senate has approved billionaire Jared Isaacman to lead NASA, following a dramatic nomination process. The appointment comes as a strategic move to propel a strong US presence in space amid growing competition from other nations. This marks the first time in decades that a NASA administrator has been appointed directly from outside government circles. President Donald Trump initially nominated Isaacman in December 2024, withdrew the nomination amid tensions with Elon Musk, and later reinstated it. The confirmation vote passed with significant support, standing at 67-to-30 in favour. Isaacman, an ally of Musk, envisions a permanent lunar base to aid in further space exploration and resource extraction. Isaacman’s approach involves integrating more private sector competition into NASA's operations, which could create potential conflicts with Musk's SpaceX. Recently, he praised the award of a significant contract to Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos, indicating an inclination towards fostering diverse partnerships. Isaacman's vision extends to collaborations with academic institutions, positioning NASA as a catalyst for scientific advancement. Looking ahead, Isaacman pledges to advance NASA’s objectives aggressively, even hinting at personally funding projects if necessary to maintain momentum. His entry into this role signifies his debut in a political appointment, succeeding Sean Duffy, who has been interim NASA chief since July. Isaacman emphasises urgency in leading the US space agenda, particularly in the looming race against China to reach and harness lunar resources. Isaacman's rise to NASA chief reflects a shift towards leveraging private sector innovation in governmental space programmes, aiming to keep the US ahead in the space race. His firm stance on innovation and collaboration underscores the evolving role of NASA under his tenure, as space exploration enters a new era, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: Jared Isaacman has been confirmed as NASA's new chief by the US Senate. His leadership aims to increase private competition and academic partnerships. Isaacman’s appointment signals a focus on placing the US ahead in the space race. Related story: Nasa Defends Apollo 11 After Kim Kardashian Sparks Moon Debate Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-18

In a political twist, four Republicans have joined forces with Democrats in the US House of Representatives to mandate a vote on extending healthcare subsidies, which are crucial for millions of Americans. These subsidies, set to expire at year's end, are essential for keeping insurance premiums affordable under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Although the House vote is anticipated to pass on Wednesday evening, it is expected to face significant challenges in the Senate. The move to force the vote emerges from a group of moderate Republicans aiming to express their support for some extension of the subsidies to prevent the sharp hike in premiums anticipated. Without the subsidies, premiums for ACA insurance plans could more than double. The mechanism used, known as a discharge petition, requires enough support from members to bring a measure to the floor for a full vote. Pennsylvania's Ryan Mackenzie, Rob Bresnahan, and Brian Fitzpatrick, alongside New York's Mike Lawler, have joined all Democrats in signing the petition. This effort seeks to continue the Covid-era subsidies for an additional three years. However, some Republicans who support the procedural manoeuvre have voiced their preference for an extension over the complete expiration of subsidies. In a statement, Fitzpatrick stressed the importance of a compromise, highlighting the negative impact of letting the subsidies expire without a transitional solution. House Speaker Mike Johnson initially resisted any vote on this issue, citing a lack of consensus among Republicans on how to extend the subsidies. He had sought to pair any extension with equivalent spending cuts. Nevertheless, moderate Republicans advanced this initiative, potentially influenced by the upcoming re-election challenges many face. If successful in the House, the measure will proceed to the Senate, though it lacks sufficient support from Senate Republicans to assure passage. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed uncertainty about the timing of a Senate vote, indicating that they would address the matter in due course. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) warns that failure to extend the subsidies could increase the number of uninsured individuals by an average of 3.8 million annually, alongside a considerable rise in insurance premiums, reported the BBC. Key Takeaways: Four Republicans joined Democrats for a vote to extend healthcare subsidies. The House vote will determine whether to extend them for three years. The Senate poses a challenge with insufficient current support for passage. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-12-18