World news update today

Here's a summary of some of the top world news stories from today:

Politics

• The United States and China have reached a tentative agreement on a trade deal, which could lead to a significant reduction in tariffs between the two countries. The deal still needs to be finalized and approved by both governments. (Source: BBC)
• The European Union has launched a new initiative to promote economic cooperation with Africa, with a focus on infrastructure development and trade. The initiative is seen as a way to counterbalance China's growing influence on the continent. (Source: Al Jazeera)
• The United Kingdom has announced plans to hold a general election on December 12, in a bid to break the deadlock over Brexit. The election is seen as a crucial moment in the country's departure from the EU. (Source: The Guardian)

Conflict and Security

• The conflict in Syria has escalated in recent days, with reports of heavy fighting between government forces and rebel groups in the northwestern province of Idlib. The situation is of particular concern due to the presence of civilians and humanitarian workers in the area. (Source: Reuters)
• The United States has launched airstrikes against Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq and Syria, in response to rocket attacks on US military bases in Iraq. The strikes are seen as a significant escalation of tensions between the US and Iran. (Source: CNN)
• The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced that it will hold a national dialogue to address the country's political and economic crisis. The dialogue is seen as a way to promote reconciliation and stability in the country. (Source: AFP)

Economy

• The global economy has been hit by a surge in coronavirus cases, with many countries imposing travel restrictions and lockdowns to slow the spread of the virus. The economic impact is expected to be significant, with many experts predicting a recession. (Source: The New York Times)
• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cut its forecast for global economic growth, citing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and trade tensions. The IMF now expects global growth to slow to 3.3% in 2020, down from 3.6% in 2019. (Source: IMF)
• The European Central Bank has announced a new stimulus package to support the eurozone economy, including a cut in interest rates and a new round of quantitative easing. The package is seen as a way to boost economic growth and inflation. (Source: Bloomberg)

Environment

• The United Nations has warned that the world is running out of time to address the climate crisis, with many countries failing to meet their commitments under the Paris Agreement. The UN is calling for urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy. (Source: UN News)
• The Amazon rainforest is on fire, with many countries in the region experiencing severe drought and heatwaves. The fires are causing widespread damage and threatening the region's biodiversity. (Source: BBC)
• The European Union has announced plans to ban single-use plastics, including straws, bags, and cutlery, in an effort to reduce waste and pollution. The ban is expected to come into effect in 2021. (Source: The Guardian)

These are just a few of the top world news stories from today.