The average score of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic test taken by Vietnamese people was 6.2 out of 9.0 this year, thereby ranking 29th out of 39 countries, down six places compared to 2022.

According to the most recent IELTS report, the average score of Vietnamese candidates who took the IELTS Academic test is 6.2. Notably, 21% of test-takers from Vietnam achieved a score of 6.0, while only 5% reached the impressive score of 8.0. In Southeast Asia, Vietnam ranks fourth in overall performance, tied with Cambodia and Thailand.

For the IELTS General Training test, which is often taken for migration or vocational purposes, Vietnamese candidates had an average score of 5.7, placing the country 34th globally. A significant portion of candidates, 15%, scored 5.0, while 14% scored 5.5. Similar to the Academic test, only 5% achieved a score of 8.0. The average scores for Vietnamese candidates across different sections of the General Training test were 5.7 in listening, 5.6 in reading, 5.8 in writing, and 5.4 in speaking.

Globally, 79.08% of IELTS candidates opted for the Academic test, primarily for educational purposes, while 20.92% took the General Training test for vocational training or migration. The IELTS test, graded on a scale from 1 to 9, is widely recognized as a measure of English proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It is managed by the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.

While milk is a nutritious staple in many diets, certain food combinations with milk can cause digestive issues or reduce nutrient absorption. Here are five foods that should be avoided with milk, according to Times of India:

Bananas
Although many consider milk and bananas a healthy combination, the pairing can slow digestion. The heaviness of both foods can leave you feeling tired and sluggish. Dr. Pritam Moon, a Mumbai-based physician, noted that consuming them together can lead to digestive fatigue. It’s best to eat these foods separately for better digestion.

Fish
Fish and milk are both nutritious, but consuming them together may cause stomach discomfort, including food poisoning or cramps. Some people also report skin issues when combining the two. It’s advisable to avoid this pairing to reduce these potential risks.

Citrus fruits
Combining milk with citrus fruits, such as oranges or lemons, can result in stomach discomfort. The acidity in citrus fruits can curdle milk in your stomach, potentially causing nausea or vomiting. It’s recommended to wait a couple of hours after consuming citrus fruits before drinking milk.

Melons
Milk and melons don’t mix well because melons are water-rich while milk has a laxative effect. Consuming them together may lead to bloating and gastric discomfort. Keeping these foods separate can support smoother digestion.

Salted snacks
Salty snacks like chips or pretzels can make you feel thirsty, and drinking milk afterward can disrupt your electrolyte balance. This combination can lead to bloating and digestive discomfort, so it’s best to enjoy them separately.

By keeping these food combinations in mind, you can enjoy better digestion and nutrient absorption.

The world's 26 poorest countries, which are home to about 40% of the global population living in extreme poverty, are currently facing unprecedented levels of debt and heightened vulnerability to natural disasters, according to a new World Bank report. These nations, with per-capita incomes under $1,145, are experiencing their highest debt-to-GDP ratios since 2006 and are struggling more now than before the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the global recovery, these economies have not bounced back and remain heavily reliant on International Development Association (IDA) support through grants and near-zero interest loans, as access to market financing has largely disappeared.

The report, released ahead of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) annual meetings, emphasizes the growing financial challenges these countries face. Their debt-to-GDP ratio now averages 72%, with half of the nations either already in debt distress or at high risk of it. Contributing to this crisis are widespread armed conflicts or fragile political and social structures in two-thirds of these countries, which severely limit foreign investment and expose them to volatile global markets as many of them depend on commodity exports.

World Bank Chief Economist Indermit Gill highlighted the essential role of the IDA in supporting these nations, stating that IDA's financial resources have been a lifeline, particularly over the past five years as these countries grappled with severe setbacks. The World Bank is now looking to raise over $100 billion by December 6 to replenish IDA’s funds, exceeding the $93 billion raised in 2021.

Natural disasters have had an increasingly devastating impact on these countries, with average annual losses due to such events at 2% of GDP between 2011 and 2023—five times higher than in lower-middle-income countries. This underscores the need for much greater investment in disaster preparedness and recovery efforts.

The report also encourages these economies to take steps to improve their own fiscal systems. It recommends simplifying tax registration processes, enhancing tax administration, and improving the efficiency of public spending to better manage resources and stimulate growth.

In a surprising move, President Biden has authorized the deployment of U.S. military forces in Israel, deploying the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to counter escalating threats from Iran. This decision comes despite the U.S. not being a member of NATO or having a formal defense treaty with Israel.

With recent Iranian attacks resulting in significant impacts on Israeli air bases, the U.S. aims to bolster Israel's defenses and prepare for potential conflict. Join us as we explore the implications of this deployment for U.S.-Israel relations and regional stability.

Iran's foreign minister warned the U.S. military against sending forces to operate in Israel. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who helped reached Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, posted on X, "The US has been delivering record amount of arms to Israel. It is now also putting lives of its troops at risk by deploying them to operate US missile systems in Israel. While we have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region, I say it clearly that we have no red lines in defending our people and interests."

The U.S. is sending a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery along with U.S. troops to Israel. The Pentagon announced the support to Israel shortly after Iran made its threat.



US To Deploy 'THAAD' Missile Battery To Israel? | World News | English News | WION

Attachment 2438908

Did Harris Use Teleprompter During Univision Town Hall?

By Alex Kasprak

Following U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris' Oct. 10, 2024, town hall-style appearance on the Spanish-language network Univision, former President Donald Trump's campaign posted a video to X — captioned only with the words "the teleprompter" and an "eyes" emoji — showing Harris responding to an audience member's question with a teleprompter in her line of sight:



Several pro-Trump influencers suggested that Harris, Trump's Democratic rival in the November presidential election, relied on a teleprompter to answer questions from the public. Tim Pool, for example, shared the video on X with the comment "she can't even ask sincere questions without a script."

"Watch them panic when they realized they were showing the prompter live on-air," Benny Johnson posted. This video, it should be noted, cuts out before any sign of this supposed panic.

On Oct. 11, Trump himself repeated the claim:

Trump: "Did you see where she did a town hall yesterday and she used a teleprompter?" (Harris did not use a teleprompter) pic.twitter.com/w2u84c1jtP

— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) October 11, 2024


This claim that the teleprompter was for Harris' use was immediately rebuffed by the Univision anchor who moderated the event, Enrique Acevedo. On X, he said that the teleprompter text — which was in Spanish — contained his introduction for the event

Acevedo's account of events is supported by several lines of evidence.

First, the video appears to show Spanish words on the teleprompter — Harris spoke in English throughout the event.

Second, there is a marked lack of panic. As seen in context, the teleprompter turning off mid-answer (starting at the 5:42 mark) does not in any way affect or interrupt her answer:



Third, Acevedo's assertion that the teleprompter was later replaced by a timer is verified by a Getty Images photograph of the event showing that timer:



If proximity to a loaded teleprompter during a network television town hall event is sufficient evidence that a candidate made use of that teleprompter, then Trump, shown below at a Fox town hall held in September 2024, is also guilty:



Because the teleprompter contained a Spanish-language introduction intended for the Univision moderator and was replaced with a timer during Harris' first response to an audience question, and because no other evidence refutes this explanation, the claim that Harris used a teleprompter during her Univision town hall is false.

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For the most part of the 21st century, Israel and Gaza have been at war with each other; full with abductions, nationwide blockades, and over 10,000 missiles shot across borders. Still, both countries are as far from a resolution as ever - meaning the attacks may not be stopping permanently anytime soon.

Israel, being unable to stop Gaza’s launches, developed a weapon born out of sci-fi movies; one that’s silent, invisible, and capable of intercepting almost 100% of targets in as little as four seconds - the world’s first true laser weapon.

Today, we receive breaking news that a fuel storage station in the capital city of Chechnya (Grozny) exploded sending shrapnel and debris flying throughout the center of the city. It is unknown what was caused the catastrophic explosion and someone suspected it may be some kind of Russian sabotage after Ramzan Kadyrov declared a "Blood Feud" on members of the Russian Lawmaking Body.

We also get footage of large scale Ukrainian attacks on more Russian oil depots in occupied Luhansk. A Russian telegram channel also reports that an SU-34 fighter jet has also been destroyed in a major victory for Ukrainian forces.

Finally, we get groundbreaking footage showing a failed Russian offensive in the Kursk region of mainland Russia. Please like and subscribe for more daily war updates!

Ivanka Trump, at 42, maintains her toned physique through a disciplined workout regimen that focuses on five core exercises: deadlifts, back squats, push-ups, presses, and pull-ups. According to Sandy Brockman, a Texas-based personal trainer, Ivanka lifts weights four times a week and occasionally incorporates yoga into her routine for balance and flexibility.

Her workout consistently includes these five exercises, with adjustments to the weights depending on her current fitness goals. Brockman suggests that for optimal results, individuals should aim to lift their body weight in exercises such as deadlifts and squats. She sets strength benchmarks for her clients, including the ability to perform five strict push-ups, two strict pull-ups, a bodyweight back squat, a bodyweight deadlift, and a 45-pound barbell overhead press.

Each of these core exercises offers unique benefits:

Deadlifts: As a multi-joint movement, deadlifts improve overall body strength by focusing on lifting weight from the ground, targeting major muscle groups like the legs, back, and core.

Back Squats: This exercise is effective for building lower body strength, particularly in the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back, and is essential for improving power and speed.

Pull-ups: Known for their ability to work the entire upper body, pull-ups enhance core strength while engaging multiple muscle groups, making them a staple for upper-body conditioning.

Push-ups: A classic bodyweight exercise, push-ups improve core stability and upper-body strength by working muscles in the chest, shoulders, and triceps.

Presses: Overhead presses are key for improving functional strength and posture, targeting the shoulders and upper back, and enhancing overall upper-body stability.

Ivanka’s commitment to these exercises helps her maintain both her strength and overall fitness, serving as a model for those looking to build a well-rounded, effective workout routine.

A Vietnamese man who had accidentally left behind a backpack containing more than $15,000 at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport was reunited with his belongings, thanks to the quick action of airport security. The incident occurred when Nguyen Thanh Binh, a member of the car park security team, and Nguyen Thanh Tin, from the mobile security team, noticed an unattended black backpack in the lobby of Terminal 2 late on Thursday.

The two officers immediately followed protocol, performing a security check on the bag to ensure it contained no explosives. After the check, they turned the backpack over to the airport’s mobile security unit for further investigation. Upon examining the contents, airport officials discovered $15,075 in cash, along with a passport identifying the owner.

The passenger, who had just returned to Vietnam after working in South Korea, explained that he mistakenly thought a member of his group had taken responsibility for his backpack as they left the airport. It wasn’t until they were nearing downtown Hanoi that he realized the bag had been left behind, prompting him to rush back to the airport in the hopes of recovering it.

Expressing his relief, the passenger emphasized how fortunate he felt to have been able to recover his belongings. He explained that the money represented his hard-earned savings from working in South Korea and acknowledged how difficult it would have been to retrieve it without the swift actions of the security team.

This act of integrity and diligence adds to the airport's strong record of helping passengers recover lost items. To date, security teams at Noi Bai International Airport have successfully returned lost belongings to over 40 travelers in 2024 alone.

Boeing is set to cut 17,000 jobs, approximately 10% of its global workforce, amid ongoing financial struggles and a month-long strike by 33,000 West Coast workers. The company is also delaying the first deliveries of its 777X jet by a year and expects to record $5 billion in losses for the third quarter of 2024.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg addressed employees, stating that the job cuts are necessary to align the company's workforce with its financial reality. This downsizing will affect executives, managers, and general employees alike, as Boeing grapples with production halts of key aircraft models such as the 737 MAX, 767, and 777, due to the strike.

The strike, which began on September 13, has severely impacted Boeing’s production, and the company has filed an unfair labor practice charge against the machinists union for failing to negotiate in good faith. The financial strain from the work stoppage has been significant, with ratings agency S&P estimating that it is costing Boeing $1 billion per month, threatening the company’s prized investment-grade credit rating.

In addition to the layoffs, Boeing has delayed the delivery of its 777X jet to 2026, citing development challenges, flight-test pauses, and the ongoing strike. The company has also announced the end of its 767 freighter program by 2027, although it will continue producing the KC-46A Tanker.

Boeing faces further scrutiny as it awaits a Texas court decision on its offer to plead guilty to fraud as part of a deal with the U.S. Department of Justice. The planemaker has agreed to pay a $487.2 million fine, improve safety measures, and face three years of court-supervised probation.

Despite these setbacks, Boeing is exploring options to raise up to $10 billion through stock sales and other equity-like securities to stabilize its finances. The company currently has about $60 billion in debt and posted cash flow losses of over $7 billion in the first half of 2024. Analysts believe Boeing needs to raise between $10 billion and $15 billion to maintain its credit rating, which is now hovering just above junk status.

NEW YORK
Change in Voter Registration by Party since 2020
49 of 62 counties shift Republican, including 4 of 5 NYC boroughs
Shifts diluted by Automatic Voter Registration registering more non-partisans
Of note, last update is from 7 months ago. This will likely be much redder in the update just before the election given current circumstances and may shift all but a few counties.
New York will definitely be moving substantially to the right this year.

In her final statement at the People's Court of Ho Chi Minh City, property tycoon Truong My Lan tearfully expressed regret over the consequences of her actions, acknowledging the profound impact they have had on tens of thousands of families. Facing a life sentence for multiple charges, including fraudulent asset appropriation and money laundering, Lan reflected on the personal and professional price she has paid, calling it "too high."

Lan, the chairwoman of Van Thinh Phat, highlighted her aspirations for her company, including plans to develop social housing, build international hospitals, and provide education for low-income students. These ambitions remain unfulfilled, which she attributed to what she described as her "destiny" and "career accident."

While Lan maintained that she never intended to defraud anyone, she acknowledged her mistakes and asked the court for leniency, hoping that her past contributions, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, would be recognized. She referenced her efforts in securing 50 million vaccine doses for Vietnam as part of her contributions to society.

Lan also argued that she should not be solely held responsible for the crimes, suggesting that the legal charges had split her into multiple "versions" of herself. She sought reduced sentences for her co-defendants, including her husband Eric Chu, her niece Truong Hue Van, and her sister-in-law Ngo Thanh Nha, all of whom were involved in the fraudulent activities.

The court is scheduled to reconvene on October 17 for sentencing. This is Lan's second trial this year, following a previous case in April where she was sentenced to death for embezzling VND 677 trillion from Saigon Commercial Bank (SCB). She has since appealed that verdict.

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to escalate, particularly on the Kupiansk front. Russian forces launched a significant motorized attack aiming to breach Ukrainian defenses and capture key locations near the Oskil River. Despite their efforts, Ukrainian troops, bolstered by UAV reconnaissance, mounted a strong defense and successfully thwarted the Russian advance.

Two major Russian columns, totaling around fifty vehicles, faced fierce resistance. The 77th Air Mobile Brigade and the 92nd Mechanized Brigade executed coordinated strikes, utilizing precision-guided missiles and kamikaze drones, resulting in substantial Russian losses. Reports indicated that 97 Russian soldiers were killed and numerous vehicles destroyed.

As winter approaches, concerns grow about the impact of weather on military operations, prompting speculation about potential changes in Russian strategies. The ongoing battles highlight the importance of technology and tactical innovation in modern warfare, underscoring how these factors shape the conflict's trajectory.

Russian army wiped out from Ukraine map today: Ukrainians Trapped Russian Convoy!

A group of Russian motorcycle-riding troops attempted to reach and assault Ukrainian positions, but ending up being wiped out by the RYBAK unit of the 65th Mechanized Brigade near the village of Robotyne in the Zaporizhzhia region

The Rubak Unit: the Bane of the Russians



Bringing you all the latest daily news and updates, TVP World is Poland's first English-language channel where you can find world news as seen from the Polish perspective and the latest news from the CEE region. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram.

Today, Chechen Warlord Ramzan Kadyrov announced he was the target of a Russian Assassination plot against his life. Kadyrov has announced a "Blood Feud" against several Russian lawmakers as tensions rise between Russia and Chechnya.

We also have video evidence of a MASSIVE Ukrainian drone strike on a crucial Russian airbase with major damage reported on Russia's military facilities. Also the oil depot fire in Crimea continues to burn for the fourth day as Russian firefighters fail to extinguish the fire.

We also get more evidence of North Korea's involvement in the Ukraine war as we receive reports that North Korean soldiers may be fighting both on the frontlines and in support roles to assist Russia's military. We also receive news from the Middle-East that Israel's war cabinet is meeting once again today to decide on how to respond to Iran's recent attack.

Please like and subscribe for more daily war updates! Watch this clip right here:

Russia ATTEMPTS To Assassinate Chechen Ramzan Kadyrov; MAJOR Airbase Strike

According to the latest WWF Living Planet Index, wild populations of monitored animal species have seen a dramatic decline of over 70% in the last 50 years, with the loss being as high as 95% in biodiversity-rich regions like Latin America and the Caribbean. This report, tracking 35,000 populations of more than 5,000 species, highlights the accelerating damage caused by human activities, including habitat degradation, deforestation, overexploitation, invasive species, and climate change.

The report underscores that these declines are not only catastrophic for wildlife but also threaten the ecosystems vital for human survival. Experts warn of approaching tipping points that could cause irreversible harm, such as the deforestation of the Amazon turning it from a carbon sink into a carbon source, exacerbating climate change.

Freshwater species have seen the steepest population declines, followed by terrestrial and marine species. While some areas, like Europe and North America, have experienced slower declines thanks to conservation efforts and reintroduction programs (such as for the European bison), the global trend remains "incredibly concerning."

Despite these alarming statistics, the WWF emphasizes that all is not lost, pointing to international agreements, such as the 2022 UN pact to protect 30% of the planet by 2030, as steps toward reversing this trend. However, there is a growing concern that the goals set for 2030 could be missed without significant action.

Criticism has been raised about the WWF's methodology, with some scientists arguing that the decline may be overstated. However, WWF remains confident in the robustness of its data, supported by multiple indicators of ecosystem health.

Hurricane Milton, which has regained strength as a Category 5 storm, is causing widespread panic and preparation in Florida, especially around the Tampa Bay area. With sustained winds of 165 mph (265 kph), it poses a severe threat as it approaches landfall, expected Wednesday night. Florida authorities, including Governor Ron DeSantis, have mobilized extensive resources to clear debris and prepare the region for storm surges, high winds, and possible tornadoes. Over 5.9 million people in 11 counties are under mandatory evacuation orders, while many residents brace themselves, boarding up homes and securing essentials.

The storm's trajectory remains uncertain, but its impact will be devastating across central Florida. Residents are urged to evacuate locally, avoiding long-distance travel to reduce traffic and fuel shortages. Tampa Bay, in particular, has not seen a major hurricane since 1921, raising fears of unprecedented damage, especially from storm surges potentially as high as 15 feet. These surges could flood entire homes, prompting increasingly dire warnings from local officials like Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.

As Milton advances, its development reflects a concerning trend in stronger hurricanes fueled by climate change, following close on the heels of Hurricane Helene. While some residents have opted to "tough it out," others scramble to evacuate, with fuel lines growing and flights canceled. Federal and state authorities have positioned FEMA personnel and supplies to assist in the aftermath, but first responders will not be available during the height of the storm for those who remain behind.

Managing body heat is essential, especially during hot weather or after intense physical activities. Here’s an overview of some effective strategies and natural remedies for reducing body heat:

Causes of Heat Stress
Several factors can cause a rise in body heat, leading to heat stress:

Inflammatory illnesses (e.g., fever or infections)
Thyroid disorders like hyperthyroidism
Exposure to hot weather or direct sunlight for long periods
Wearing tight clothes, which trap heat and moisture
Consuming spicy, oily, or fried foods
High-protein foods such as nuts and meats
Excessive caffeine or alcohol intake
Intense physical exercise
Certain drugs
Dehydration, which reduces the body’s ability to sweat effectively
Quick Ways to Reduce Body Heat
Here are some remedies to cool down body heat quickly:

Cool Foot Bath
Soak your feet in cold water for about 20 minutes. You can add ice cubes and peppermint oil for added relief.

Drink Coconut Water
Coconut water is hydrating and replenishes electrolytes, which can help cool the body during heat stress.

Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol, which provides a cooling sensation. You can drink peppermint tea (hot or iced) to promote sweating and help cool down the body.

Hydrating Fruits
Fruits with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, and citrus fruits, are excellent for cooling the body. Vegetables like celery and cauliflower can also help.

Wear Loose, Light-Colored Clothes
Opt for natural fabrics like cotton and linen, as they absorb sweat and allow heat to escape. Wearing hats, sunglasses, and using an umbrella outdoors can protect you from the sun.

Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel applied to the skin or consumed as a drink (with aloe vera powder) can help lower body temperature and provide a cooling effect.

Buttermilk
Buttermilk, rich in probiotics, vitamins, and minerals, is a natural coolant. It helps restore energy and cools down body heat. You can enhance its flavor with honey or yogurt.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If body heat remains high despite these remedies, consult a doctor, especially if you:

Have an underlying medical condition
Are elderly (65+), pregnant, or nursing
Notice heat stress symptoms in children or babies
Untreated heat stress can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both of which require medical attention.

Hanoi police have arrested three individuals involved in smuggling 97.5 kg of crystal meth disguised as wine, which was transported by air from Europe to Vietnam. The suspects, Truong Huu Tuan, Tran Ngoc Anh, both 29, and Nguyen Van Tuan, 26, were detained on charges of illegal drug transportation.

The investigation began in mid-July when authorities detected a suspicious shipment sent to Vietnam, suspected to be linked to a large drug trafficking operation. The shipment, consisting of nine boxes, was traced to a recipient in Hai Phong. Police monitored the case and apprehended Truong Huu Tuan on July 19 while he was transferring the boxes in Hanoi’s Ha Dong District. The boxes contained vacuum-packed crystal meth hidden in wine bags.

Tuan admitted that he had been paid VND7 million (around US$290) to collect the goods, with his travel and stay arranged by an unknown person. Further investigations led to the arrest of Anh and Nguyen Van Tuan. Anh had been paid VND5 million (about US$207) by a man he met online to deliver a phone to a courier company in Hanoi.

The police are continuing their investigation, as Vietnam enforces strict drug laws, including the death penalty for smuggling large quantities of narcotics.