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Manmohan Singh's Landmark 2008 U.S. Nuclear Deal: Key Moment in India's Foreign PolicyCelebrities can spark change when they speak up about their health

A legacy of struggle She chose to give her life, leaving behind legacy of incredible struggle for democracy The former prime minister of Pakistan Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.—AFP/File Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s death anniversary (which falls today) will be marked this year amidst another moment of political uncertainty in Pakistan. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); A few days before her assassination, Shaheed BB had vowed to protect her country from terrorists wanting to target its sovereignty. Despite knowing the danger and threat to her life, Shaheed BB wanted to be among her people and be a part of the democratic process. She believed that democracy was the best revenge. Her enemies were cowards, afraid of her strength and she was targeted on December 27th, 2007 – and assassinated. She chose to give her life, leaving behind a legacy of incredible struggle for democracy. Her sacrifice left a vacuum in Pakistan’s politics and left a permanent mark in the hearts of the people of Pakistan. General Zia imposed martial law on July 5, 1977. During that time, Shaheed BB came to Lahore with her brother Shahnawaz Bhutto and stayed with Begum Nadra Khakwani. She opposed the dictatorship with great courage and people appreciated her for that. She gave me an interview at that time, which reflects her political acumen. The first question I asked was: “You are a great admirer of your father’s work. When you heard the government had been toppled by a military dictator, what was your immediate reaction?” Her reply was that her parents were already informed at 2am and she came to know about it slightly later. There was a feeling of regret. It was not personal regret, but it was a sense of regret at the good work of the PPP being disrupted. About her father’s reaction, she said, “he wasn’t even worried about us, but he was worried about his country”. In response to a question about different foreign lobbies working against her father, she said that there were several reasons for the international conspiracies against him. He wanted to unite the Arab world and wanted them to be aware of their strength in unity. He also wanted to unite the developing world against exploitation by imperial powers and they did not appreciate this. Some people did not like that someone in Pakistan was striving to fight them on all these fronts. Politics demands sacrifice. Begum Bhutto mentioned in an interview that after becoming the First Lady, she had to give up her family life. She also said that it affected her children who had to be away from paternal love and attention. Benazir Bhutto understood these challenges, but she believed that growing up in such an environment gave her political consciousness. It empowered her to participate in political debates and be prepared for political struggles. She said that in politics, we have to be careful with our words so that they don’t hurt anyone or do not become a cause for complaint. It is by chance that some are born in affluent households while others are born in poor households. But poverty should not be anyone’s destiny, and we must work together to fight poverty in our country. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is now following in the footsteps of his mother, carrying forward her mission of serving the people, along with his sister Aseefa Bhutto Zardari who is currently the First Lady of Pakistan. The writer is the former press secretary for Benazir Bhutto.Shortly after her 2012 heart attack, O'Donnell shared her experience on her blog. During her 2015 television standup special, she spoke about how the experience changed her life. The segment included a heart attack acronym the comedian coined: HEPPP (hot, exhausted, pain, pale, puke). O'Donnell's candidness about her heart attack helped spread awareness about how it can present differently in women. She's one of countless celebrities over the years who have opened up about their health conditions, including breast cancer, HIV, depression, heart disease and stroke. When celebrities reveal and discuss their health issues, the impact can be far-reaching. It not only helps to educate the public, but it also can reduce stigma and inspire others. "Health disclosures by celebrities do matter, and we know this from decades of research across a lot of different health conditions and public figures," said Dr. Jessica Gall Myrick, a professor of health communication at Pennsylvania State University in University Park. "They absolutely do influence people." Some of the earliest celebrity health disclosures happened in the 1970s and 1980s with U.S. presidents and first ladies. When first lady Betty Ford was diagnosed with breast cancer just weeks after Gerald Ford became president in 1974, she spoke openly about her diagnosis, inviting photographers into the White House and helping make talk of cancer less taboo. In 1987, first lady Nancy Reagan used her breast cancer diagnosis as a chance to advocate for women to get mammograms. Her disclosure came two years after President Ronald Reagan's colon cancer diagnosis, about which the couple was equally as vocal. "Individuals throughout the country have been calling cancer physicians and information services in record numbers," the Los Angeles Times reported after Nancy Reagan's widely publicized surgery. The public showed a similar interest years earlier following Betty Ford's mastectomy. Another major milestone in celebrity health disclosures came in 1991, when 32-year-old NBA superstar Earvin "Magic" Johnson revealed he had tested positive for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. "Life is going to go on for me, and I'm going to be a happy man," Johnson assured fans during a news conference. He immediately retired, only to return to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996. His disclosure, along with his work as an advocate for safe sex, helped shatter stigmas around HIV and AIDS. Calls to testing centers increased significantly in the days and weeks after Johnson's announcement. "That celebrity disclosure really helped people see there was a wider susceptibly to HIV," Gall Myrick said. "People were more likely to say, 'I need to think about my own risks.' It was very powerful." When it comes to heart and stroke health, President Dwight Eisenhower helped make heart attacks less frightening and mysterious. During a news conference in 1955, millions of Americans learned from the president's doctors about his heart condition, his treatment, and concrete steps they could take to reduce their own heart attack risk. Other notable figures have shared their health experiences over the years. Soap opera legend Susan Lucci , who was diagnosed with heart disease in 2018, has advocated for women's heart health. Basketball great Kareem Abdul Jabbar talks about his irregular heartbeat, known as atrial fibrillation, and advocates for regular health screenings. Lawyer, author and television personality Star Jones continues to speak about heart disease risk after having lifesaving heart surgery in 2010. Longtime TV and radio personality Dick Clark brought stroke and aphasia into the national spotlight when he returned to hosting "New Year's Rockin' Eve" in Times Square just a year after his 2004 stroke and continued until his death in 2012. And actor and comedian Jamie Foxx recently revealed he had a stroke last year. "Celebrity disclosures represent teachable moments," said Dr. Seth M. Noar, director of the Communicating for Health Impact Lab at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. "Searches for different health conditions often spike in the wake of these types of announcements. They cause people to think about these health issues, learn more about them, and in some cases change their behaviors." Celebrities have also highlighted the importance of CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator, or AED, to restore a person's heartbeat if they experience cardiac arrest. Interest in CPR and AEDs spiked in 2023 after Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest during an NFL game broadcast on national TV. Views of the American Heart Association's hands-only CPR pages jumped more than 600% in the days following Hamlin's cardiac arrest. Three months later, around 3 million people had watched the AHA's CPR video. Family members of celebrities who have died from a heart issue have also spread awareness. After actor John Ritter died of an undiagnosed aortic dissection in 2003, his wife, actor Amy Yasbeck, started the Ritter Foundation to raise awareness about the condition and help others avoid a misdiagnosis. A literature review published in Systematic Reviews in 2017 found that people are conditioned to react positively to celebrity advice. Research also has found that people often follow advice from celebrities who match how they perceive – or how they want to perceive – themselves. The most effective celebrity disclosures are frequently the ones that tell a compelling story and include clear steps people can take to apply lessons the celebrity learned to their own health situation, Gall Myrick said. "People are more likely to take action when they feel confident and capable." Research has shown that celebrity disclosures often impact calls to hotlines and page views on health-related websites, and they can spark behavioral and even policy changes. Anecdotally, Gall Myrick said, people ask their doctor more questions about health conditions and request medical screenings. Celebrities can have a big impact because people tend to have parasocial relationships with them, Gall Myrick said. These are one-sided relationships in which a person feels an emotional connection with another person, often a celebrity. People may feel as if they know the basketball player they've watched on the court for years, or the Hollywood actor they've followed, she said. They want to comfort them after a health disclosure. Social media has only increased this feeling of familiarity, as celebrities regularly share mundane – but fascinating – details of their daily lives, like what they eat for breakfast, their favorite socks, or the meditation they do before bed. "We spend a lifetime being exposed to celebrities through the media, and over time, you get to know these public figures," Gall Myrick said. "Some feel like friendships." A study published in the journal Science Communication in 2020 compared reactions to actor Tom Hanks, who had COVID-19 early in the pandemic, and an average person with COVID-19. Researchers found that participants identified more with Hanks when it came to estimating their own susceptibility to COVID-19. The participants also felt more emotional about the virus that causes COVID-19 when thinking about it in relation to Hanks versus an average person. When a celebrity reveals a health condition, it's a surprise that may feel personal, especially if they are well-liked and the health issue is dramatic and sudden. "We feel like we know them, and the emotional response is what can then push people out of their routine," Gall Myrick said. Noar said a celebrity health story is often a more interesting and powerful way to learn about a health condition than just the facts, which can feel overwhelming. People are drawn to the slew of media coverage that typically follows a celebrity disclosure, he said. "Some of these high-visibility public figures' stories are now woven into some of these illnesses," Noar said. For example, Angelina Jolie is often linked to the BRCA1 gene mutation after the actor shared she had a preventive double mastectomy because of her elevated breast cancer risk and had her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed because of her increased risk for ovarian cancer. "It's a narrative, a story that humanizes the condition in a way that very informational communication really doesn't," Noar said. "People remember it, and it can potentially be a touch point." After a disclosure, patients may bring up a celebrity's story during a doctor's appointment and connect it to their own care. Today's multiplatform digital culture only amplifies celebrity messages. "You're seeing everyday people react to these events, and that can have a ripple effect too," Gall Myrick said. "We know from research that seeing messages more than once can be impactful. Often it's not just one billboard or one commercial that impacts behavior; it's the drip drip drip over time." Still, there's a cautionary tale to be told around the impact of celebrity health news, especially if the celebrity has died. An unclear cause of death may lead to speculation. Gall Myrick said that guesswork could potentially end up hurting rather than helping if patients were to act on misinformation or a lack of information. "Maybe the death was atypical or it needs more context," she said. "That's where advocacy groups and public health organizations come in. They need to be prepared for announcements or disclosures about celebrity deaths, and to fill in some of those gaps." American Heart Association News covers heart and brain health. Not all views expressed in this story reflect the official position of the American Heart Association. Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved.The Houston Texans are back to their winning ways as they prepare to face the Tennessee Titans. Considering that the Titans are still licking their wounds from the lashing they took from Minnesota, everything looks set up for a Texans win here. It may be tempting for DFS players to buy low for some Titans, but there is little reason to predict that they will perform well in this game. Texans vs. Titans Start Em’ Here are a few of the players that we are leaning on heavily in this game. These players are in a good spot to put together a solid performance and have a favorable matchup. In terms of fantasy sports, it’s been a while since C.J. Stroud lit the stat sheet up. He had some rough losses without his main receivers, and even with Collins back he turned in only a serviceable performance against Dallas. The Texans have a strong run defense, so that might force the team to throw the ball more, which should result in an increase in Stroud’s numbers this week. While Collins played well in his comeback game against Dallas, he also didn’t light up the stat sheet. A big reason why that was the case, though, is that Mixon scored 3 touchdowns. Since the Titans have a better run defense, Collins might have more opportunities in the red zone. He was on pace for wide receiver one on the year before his injury, so it’s well-documented how big of an impact he can have. Tank Dell is more of a risky investment considering that he hasn’t lived up to the lofty expectations placed on him at the beginning of the season. Looking at his target share, though, he is still a big part of this offense. Even with Collins returning, Dell got 7 targets in the win against Dallas. Assuming he gets the same amount of snaps against Tennessee, he should be in for a solid performance. Texans vs. Titans Sit Em’ On the flip side of things, here are a few of the players we are sitting in this one. It may be more simple to just say “sit the Titans” in general. This isn’t the case just because Tennessee is having a bad year; it’s the matchup. Ridley will have to get open against Derek Stingley Jr. and have a decent ball thrown to him by Levis, who will probably be running for his life in the backfield. Ridley is still a great talent, but given his 58 yards against Minnesota, he clearly isn’t matchup-proof. In the Minnesota game, Levis led the Titans in rushing. Just go ahead and let that sink in. This is also with the lion’s share of snaps, as the Titans aren’t placing him behind Tyjae Spears in the depth chart even if he’s out due to a concussion. Pollard will be the leadback against a Texans team that will force Tennessee to throw to win, so the pathway to a good game just isn’t here for him . Many fans are hoping that Tyler Boyd may one day return to the greatness he displayed when he was in Cincinnati, but that day won’t be Sunday in Week 12. Levis will have to face down a stout Texans pass rush, so if he has a bad game, Boyd’s performance will naturally suffer as well. He will also be covered by Karamir Lassiter, who is having a good season at cornerback. Texans vs. Titans Lock Is Mixon getting any nods for potential MVP? Probably not considering how well other backs like Derrick Henry are playing. However, there isn’t much to be sad about looking at Mixon’s numbers. There have only been two games in this entire season where Mixon did NOT rush over 100 yards. Any players who have lots of money to throw around and want a sure thing should just spend on Mixon. Texans vs. Titans Fade It’s definitely a tough stretch of the season for Will Levis. Playing Minnesota and Houston back-to-back doesn’t sound like fun. Levis has shown glimpses here and there of some strong quarterback play, so it may be wise to buy him cheap down the road if there is a better matchup for him. Don’t play him if the Titans are going up against any playoff teams, though. This article first appeared on Total Apex Fantasy Sports and was syndicated with permission.

NEW YORK , Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global home services market size is estimated to grow by USD 6.54 trillion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 40.34% during the forecast period. Increasing influence of digital media is driving market growth, with a trend towards increasing number of startups entering the market. However, high competition among vendors poses a challenge. Key market players include Amazon.com Inc., Angi Inc., AskforTask Inc., Frontdoor Inc., Gapoon Online Consumer Services Pvt. Ltd., Helpling GmbH and Co. KGA, Home Depot Inc., Home Reno Pte. Ltd., Johns Lyng Group Ltd., MyClean Inc., Oneflare Pty Ltd., Paintzen Inc., Porch.com Inc., SC Pointer Systems Srl, Super Home Inc., TaskEasy Inc., Taskrabbit Inc., The ServiceMaster Co. LLC, Urbanclap Technologies India Pvt. Ltd., and Zauba Technologies and Data Services Pvt. Ltd, Amazon Home Services, American Home Shield, TruGreen Limited, Chemed Corp, The Maids International, Inc. Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Home Services Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period - Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 40.34% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 6541.8 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 28.93 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 47% Key countries US, China, Germany, India, and UK, Canada, France, Australia, Japan, South Korea Key companies profiled Amazon.com Inc., Angi Inc., AskforTask Inc., Frontdoor Inc., Gapoon Online Consumer Services Pvt. Ltd., Helpling GmbH and Co. KGA, Home Depot Inc., Home Reno Pte. Ltd., Johns Lyng Group Ltd., MyClean Inc., Oneflare Pty Ltd., Paintzen Inc., Porch.com Inc., SC Pointer Systems Srl, Super Home Inc., TaskEasy Inc., Taskrabbit Inc., The ServiceMaster Co. LLC, Urbanclap Technologies India Pvt. Ltd., and Zauba Technologies and Data Services Pvt. Ltd., Amazon Home Services, American Home Shield, TruGreen Limited, Chemed Corp, The Maids International, Inc. Market Driver The home services market is experiencing significant growth due to an increase in seed funding for startups. For instance, Urban Company and Housejoy, both tech-enabled home services marketplaces, have raised substantial investments in recent years. Urban Company secured Series F funding of USD255 million in June 2021 , while Housejoy raised USD35 million in 2020. These funds are being used to expand their business operations. Startups are attracting consumers with attractive offers and interactive platforms. Airtasker, Askfortask, and Housejoy are some startups offering general services, connecting consumers to service providers for short-term, non-professional projects. Handy, Helpling, and MyClean are examples of startups providing on-demand home cleaning services through online booking. Houzz Inc., The Porch Company, and Pro.com help consumers connect with professional contractors for various household improvement projects. The rise in the number of startups is a major factor driving the growth of the home services market. These companies are offering innovative solutions, making it more convenient for consumers to access home services. The availability of a wide range of services under different categories is also contributing to the market's growth. Overall, the home services market is expected to continue growing due to the increasing number of startups and the investments they are receiving. Home services market is witnessing significant trends with the rise of virtual versions of physical entities on platforms like Microsoft Azure. This includes maintenance, repair, and improvement activities for homes, covering cleaning, landscaping, plumbing, electrical work, remodeling, and more. Homeowners, renters, and property managers prioritize safety, comfort, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency. Ageing housing stock and DIY trends call for technological disruptions, regulatory difficulties, labour shortages, and price wars. Seasonal variations impact demand for services like plumbing, electrical repairs, HVAC maintenance, appliance repairs, home improvement, renovations and remodeling, carpentry and woodworking, and cleaning services. Environmental considerations are a growing concern, with eco-friendly practices and energy-efficient solutions gaining popularity. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This home services market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Home care and design- The home care and design segment generates revenue through services including interior designing, pest control, deep cleaning, sofa cleaning, laundry services, glasswork, woodwork, waterproofing, masonry, and carpentry. This market is fragmented with numerous small and large players offering various home care and design services. For instance, TaskRabbit Inc. Provides house cleaning and furniture assembly, Helpling offers cleaning and furniture assembly in multiple cities, Cleanly specializes in laundry and dry-cleaning, and Serviz offers a wide range of cleaning services. Amazon also entered the market with offerings in deep cleaning, carpet cleaning, tile cleaning, grout cleaning, and gutter cleaning. The market's growth is driven by an increasing number of vendors and their business expansions in the segment. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis The Home Services Market is experiencing significant growth in the digital age, with the rise of online platforms and cloud-based solutions transforming the industry. Services such as home cleaning, landscaping, maintenance, repair, and improvement activities are now easily accessible through non-cellular and m-commerce platforms. The Internet and digitalization have made it possible for consumers to book appointments, track progress, and manage their homes more efficiently. Homeowners can now avail of services like plumbing, electrical work, and remodeling through e-commerce platforms, offering convenience and transparency. Companies have embraced cloud-based solutions like Microsoft Azure to offer virtual versions of their services, allowing for remote consultations and virtual assessments. The physical entity of home services is being complemented by these digital offerings, providing a more comprehensive and convenient experience for consumers. Services like Ginger, One Medical, and Zimmber, among others, are leading the charge in this digital transformation. They cater to various needs, from health and welfare to home cleaning and maintenance. Timesaverz and similar platforms are making it easier for homeowners to manage their homes and schedules, while healthcare providers are leveraging technology to offer telemedicine and remote consultations. The future of home services is a blend of physical and digital offerings, providing consumers with greater convenience, accessibility, and value. Market Research Overview The Home Services Market is a dynamic and growing industry that caters to various needs of homeowners, renters, and property managers. This market includes a wide range of services such as home cleaning, landscaping, plumbing, electrical work, remodeling, and maintenance activities. With the increasing trend of digitalization and e-commerce, the market has seen the emergence of mobile and m-commerce platforms, cloud-based solutions, and virtual versions of physical entities. Non-cellular devices like smartphones have become essential tools for booking appointments and managing services online. The market serves diverse customer segments, including homeowners, renters, and property managers, who seek to ensure safety, comfort, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance of their homes. The Ageing Housing Stock and DIY trends present opportunities for growth, while regulatory difficulties, labour shortages, and technological disruptions pose challenges. Environmental considerations and price wars are also significant factors influencing the market. Services offered include plumbing, electrical repairs, HVAC maintenance, appliance repairs, home improvement, renovations and remodeling, carpentry and woodworking, and various cleaning services such as house cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and gutter cleaning. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/home-services-market-size-is-set-to-grow-by-usd-6-54-trillion-from-2024-2028--increasing-influence-of-digital-media-boost-the-market--technavio-302314928.html SOURCE TechnavioTesla stock lower as UBS says 'animal spirits' rather than fundamentals driving monster rally

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Russia’s steady gains along much of the Ukraine war’s battlefront have fueled doubts among Ukrainians that their military will ever reclaim significant swaths of lost territory. And as pressure grows to reach a negotiated settlement, they are increasingly resigned that any peace deal will entail giving up much if not all of the land Russia now occupies. According to a Gallup poll published this week, 52% now say Ukraine should be willing to give up territory to end the war. Still, many remain adamant that what is at stake is not just some eastern provinces bordering Russia, but Ukraine’s existence as an independent nation. And the notion remains strong that Ukraine’s acquiescence to Russia on the territorial issue would send a devastating signal around the world that force prevails over the rule of law. “It sounds very good if it could end the war, but the truth is that if you give Russia one meter of territory, they will see that as weakness, and they will not stop until they take everything,” says Yevhen, an engineering student at Mykolaiv’s Black Sea National University. “We Ukrainians know this,” he adds, “but it’s something the world must understand as well.” Standing on the shrapnel-pocked steps of Mykolaiv’s Black Sea National University, second-year engineering student Yevhen ponders the seductive appeal of the formula “land for peace” for ending Russia’s war against Ukraine. And then, like many of his fellow Ukrainians, he firmly rejects the idea. “It sounds very good if it could end the war, but the truth is that if you give Russia one meter of territory, they will see that as weakness, and they will not stop until they take everything,” says Yevhen, who asked that his last name be withheld. “We Ukrainians know this,” adds the student, whose city was blasted and bombed – but never occupied – following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. “But it’s something the world must understand as well.” For months Russia has advanced – slowly and at great cost, to be sure – along much of the war’s battlefront. That has fueled doubts that Ukraine’s military will ever reclaim significant swaths of lost territory. Moreover, Russia’s steady gains have fed resignation that any peace deal will entail giving up much if not all of the 20% of Ukrainian territory Russia now occupies. The impending return of former President Donald Trump to the White House is only the latest element in mounting pressure on Ukraine to reach a negotiated settlement with Russia. Last week German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about ending the war, the first conversation between the two in nearly two years. The German government said Mr. Scholz expressed full support for Ukraine. Even so, the outreach was panned by some NATO members and widely interpreted as another sign of fading Western interest in sustaining Ukraine’s military effort – and growing interest in a negotiated settlement. Even President Joe Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied missiles to strike deeper inside Russia is seen by many analysts as an effort to position Ukraine better for the negotiations Mr. Trump is expected to push for, rather than to boost Ukraine’s ability to win the war. Signs of escalation before any negotiations continued Thursday, as Ukraine said Russia had launched an intercontinental ballistic missile armed with conventional warheads at the central city of Dnipro. Russia refused comment, and U.S. officials reportedly said it was more likely an intermediate range ballistic missile. On Wednesday, President Biden authorized supplying Ukraine with antipersonnel mines to thwart Russia’s ground assault. As Russia’s full-scale invasion – what Ukrainians now call “the big war” – reaches 1,000 days, signs are growing that more Ukrainians are shifting in favor of entering negotiations with Russia. Moreover, a growing number appear to have resigned themselves to the once-taboo prospect of ceding territory to reach a deal. A Gallup poll of Ukrainians published this week finds that more than half want to see negotiations start as soon as possible – up from about one-quarter a year ago. And the same proportion, 52%, says the country should be willing to give up territory to end the war. That view is echoed by Black Sea student Yevhen’s friend Andrii, who says Ukraine’s priority now must be ending the loss of life. “There are two sides to this question of giving up land for peace,” he says. “I understand that for some people, giving up land would be dishonoring the soldiers and others who died defending Ukrainian territory,” says the engineering student. “But if by giving up land for peace you save Ukrainian lives, that view has value, too.” Yet even as more war-weary Ukrainians appear ready to accept ceding territory, many remain adamant that what is at stake is not just some eastern provinces bordering Russia, but Ukraine’s existence as an independent nation. Indeed, the notion remains strong that Ukraine’s acquiescence to Russia on the territorial issue would send a devastating signal around the world that force prevails over the rule of law. For many Ukrainians, their country’s long history with the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union, and now Mr. Putin’s Russia, offers proof that no deal involving Russian-occupied territory will satisfy Mr. Putin’s real goal: reconstituting the former USSR. “With this war, we are talking about two very different things, either an independent Ukraine that sets its own course and decides its own future, or Ukraine as part of Russia,” says Anastasiia Khmel, dean of the faculty of political sciences at Black Sea National University. As a result, “We have come to the conclusion that part of our territory would not be enough, [that] just the occupied lands would never guarantee peace,” she says. Explaining why “land for peace” is a “false promise,” Professor Khmel says Russia’s real goal – as she says Mr. Putin has made clear – is complete domination of Ukraine. And that, she adds, means more than just territorial control, but “repression of Ukrainian identity and Ukrainian culture as it has occurred throughout the past 300 years” of Russian imperialism. Others agree that ceding land would mean much more than a smaller Ukraine. “In Russia they don’t have a normal conception of national borders; they are thinking in terms of what were the borders of the Soviet Union,” says Mykhailo Ziatin, a Mykolaiv poet and mathematician who has joined a nearby military unit to help repel the invading forces. “That means Russia is not a normal entity you can negotiate with, but an aggressor who would see a land deal as a step and not an end.” And there is another dimension to the land issue that Ukraine is confronting, not just for itself, Mr. Ziatin says. “We Ukrainians don’t want to give up the lands we are responsible for to evil; we are taking a stand that force is not right,” he says. “That is a conviction that should matter to our Western neighbors and to the world.” For the Western democracies that support Ukraine, Mr. Ziatin says, the question is “Are you OK with rewarding the monster who wishes to make our democracy impossible; do we really want to give up anything to that beast?” That Ukrainians do not trust Mr. Putin to abide by any settlement for very long is hardly news, given how he has been seizing Ukrainian territory since 2014. More surprising perhaps is their deep mistrust of any “security guarantees” they anticipate Ukraine’s Western partners would offer as part of a “land for peace” deal. “We already learned the hard way that any deal based on vague security assurances comes with no means to enforce it, and that is the definition of a bad deal,” says Yevhen Hlibovytsky, director of Frontier Institute, a Kyiv think tank. “If Russia is rewarded now for its bad behavior, why should it not return to that bad behavior in the future?” As many Ukrainians are wont to do, Mr. Hlibovytsky refers to the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, under which a newly independent Ukraine gave up the world’s third-largest nuclear arsenal in exchange for assurances from world powers, including Russia, that the “inviolability” of its borders would be respected. The Budapest Memorandum “obviously didn’t work,” Mr. Hlibovytsky notes, leading him to foresee dire global consequences if Ukraine is forced into another accord now. “If Ukraine has to cede territory in exchange for another set of vague security assurances,” he says, “that’s an invitation to broader nuclear proliferation around the globe.” Mr. Hlibovytsky says average Ukrainians carry in their hearts the same basic convictions about the rules for achieving international peace. “People on the street will tell you the same thing, just with more four-letter words than a smooth-talking academic uses,” he says. “They sense that Ukraine is something like a test for what rules and order govern the world going forward.” “If the West is not committed to what it has said are its own standards and values,” he adds, “then they feel they have been fooled, and Ukraine is being betrayed.”What Benazir left behind Anniversary of her death is not just moment to mourn but time to reflect on what Pakistan lost Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto (SMBB). — APP/File On December 27, the nation pauses to remember Benazir Bhutto, a towering figure in Pakistan’s history whose life was tragically cut short in 2007. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); Seventeen years later, her absence is felt more acutely than ever, as Pakistan continues to grapple with challenges that she once faced head-on with resilience and vision. The anniversary of her death is not just a moment to mourn but a time to reflect on what Pakistan lost when an assassin’s bullet silenced one of the most courageous leaders of our time. Benazir Bhutto was more than a political leader – she was a symbol of hope, a beacon of change, and a testament to the indomitable spirit of women in a patriarchal society. As the first woman to lead a Muslim-majority nation, she shattered countless glass ceilings, standing tall in a world dominated by men. Her journey, however, was not an easy one. It was marked by personal sacrifices, political betrayals, and relentless opposition. Yet, through it all, Benazir remained unyielding, her eyes fixed on the promise of a better Pakistan. Her assassination on that fateful day in Rawalpindi was not just the loss of a leader but the extinguishing of a dream – of a Pakistan where democracy could thrive, where women could walk shoulder to shoulder with men, and where the principles of justice and equality could prevail. One cannot help but wonder: what would Pakistan look like today if Benazir Bhutto were still here? Would we have seen a stronger democracy, a more united nation, and a society more willing to embrace progress? Benazir was not just a politician; she was a visionary. Her policies were often ahead of their time, focusing on education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. She believed in a Pakistan where every child, regardless of gender or class, could have access to opportunity. She was acutely aware of the challenges that plagued the country, from poverty to extremism, and she approached these issues with a clarity and determination that few could match. But Benazir’s legacy is not just about what she achieved – it is also about what she left behind. Her children, Bakhtawar, Bilawal, and Aseefa, are living embodiments of her values and resilience. In Bakhtawar, we see the boldness of a woman unafraid to speak her mind. In Bilawal, we see the budding leadership of a young man who has taken up his mother’s mantle, navigating the treacherous waters of Pakistani politics with a strength reminiscent of her own. And in Aseefa, we see the charisma and compassion that were hallmarks of Benazir’s personality. Together, they carry forward her legacy, proving that while Benazir may be gone, her spirit lives on. Her children’s training is a testament to the strength and foresight of a mother who, even amidst political turmoil, never lost sight of her role as a parent. She prepared them for a world that would not be kind, teaching them to stand tall in the face of adversity. And today, they honour her memory not just with words but with actions, striving to create the Pakistan that she envisioned. Benazir’s life was a study in contrasts. She was a leader who wielded immense power but never lost touch with the struggles of the common people. She was a woman of privilege who fought for the underprivileged. She was a politician who understood the art of compromise but never compromised on her principles. And above all, she was a mother, a daughter, and a patriot who gave her life for the country she loved. Benazir Bhutto’s vision for a progressive Pakistan under the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) was rooted in inclusivity, empowerment, and unity. She championed the rights of ethnic minorities, advocating for their representation and protection in a nation often fractured by divisions. Her policies prioritised youth empowerment, emphasising education, employment opportunities, and political participation to harness the potential of Pakistan’s younger generation. Benazir’s leadership also sought to bridge provincial divides, fostering a sense of unity among Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, ensuring that all regions felt included in the national fabric. Under her leadership, the PPP symbolised a Pakistan where diversity was celebrated, and every citizen, regardless of background, had a stake in the country’s future. As we mark her death anniversary, it is impossible not to feel a pang of regret for what might have been. Benazir’s Pakistan was a vision of hope – a place where progress and tradition could coexist, where the voices of the marginalised could be heard, and where the future was brighter than the past. Her absence has left a void that no one has been able to fill, a reminder of how much we lost on that dark December day. Benazir once said, “The people who resent me do so because I’m a woman, I’m young, and I’m a Bhutto. Well, the simple answer is, it doesn’t matter that I’m a woman, it doesn’t matter that I’m young, and it’s a matter of pride that I’m a Bhutto.” These words encapsulate the essence of her life – a life lived with courage, defiance, and an unshakable belief in her identity. On this anniversary, let us not only remember her but also recommit ourselves to the ideals she stood for. For in celebrating Benazir Bhutto, we celebrate the enduring hope of a better Pakistan. The writer is an MNA and a member of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT. She holds a PhD in law.

PITTSBURGH — Bryan Rust had two goals and an assist to help the Pittsburgh Penguins beat the Vancouver Canucks 5-4 on Wednesday night. Blake Lizotte scored after missing five games with a concussion, while Kevin Hayes had a power-play goal and Rickard Rakell also scored for Pittsburgh. Erik Karlsson had three assists, while Sidney Crosby had two as the Penguins built a 4-1 lead through one period. Tristan Jarry stopped 25 shots for the Penguins. The Canucks trailed 5-2 entering the third period before Quinn Hughes and Elias Pettersson cut it to a one-goal deficit. Pius Suter and Aatu Raty also scored for the Canucks. Arturs Silovs made 18 saves. Takeaways Canucks: Vancouver lost for just the second time on the road. The Canucks, who saw a brief two-game win streak end, have lost four of their last seven overall. Penguins: The Penguins ended a three-game losing streak. Pittsburgh had lost eight of 10 and 14 of its last 18 games. Despite the win, the Penguins, who have the worst goal differential in the NHL, have still allowed at least four goals in seven of their last 11 games. Key moment Pittsburgh scored four first-period goals on 10 shots. Rakell and Hayes both scored from the top of the crease, Lizotte converted a carom off the end boards and Rust finished a 2-on-1 with Crosby. Pittsburgh Penguins' Kevin Hayes (13) celebrates with Evgeni Malkin (71) after scoring during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Vancouver Canucks Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, in Pittsburgh. Credit: AP/Matt Freed Key stat Mike Sullivan became the fastest-born U.S.-born coach in NHL history to reach 500 regular season and playoff wins. Sullivan, who also coached in Boston, reached the mark in 948 games, 20 fewer than Peter Laviolette. Up Next Canucks visit Buffalo on Friday, and Penguins visit Boston..Ottawa Senators could be without star goalie Linus Ullmark for rest of road trip