Latest World News
European Union moves to indefinitely freeze Russian central bank assets
The EU is set to indefinitely freeze assets of the Russian central bank held in Europe to unlock funds to support Ukraine, a step that removes a major legal obstacle to using those reserves for Kyiv's defense efforts. Reuters reports the move follows member-state negotiations and aims to repurpose frozen funds for Ukraine while navigating complex legal and financial issues
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Russia vows legal action after EU freezes its assets
Russia's central bank called the EU's decision to freeze its assets 'illegal' and said it may seek court remedies to recover damages and challenge the measures. Russian officials framed the action as politically motivated and signaled retaliation or legal countermeasures in response to EU steps
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Heavy strikes and territorial claims in the RussoâUkrainian war
Russian Iskander missile strikes on Dnipro killed at least four people and wounded dozens, underscoring continuing Russian targeting of Ukrainian cities. Separately, Russia claims capture of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast after protracted fighting, amid ongoing frontline changes and civilian harm reported by international outlets
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Israel carries out airstrikes in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah sites
Israeli forces launched waves of airstrikes across southern Lebanon, saying they targeted Hezbollah infrastructure, escalating crossâborder hostilities that threaten wider regional instability. International agencies report civilian casualties and rising diplomatic concern over spillover from the IsraelâGaza war into Lebanon
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US military increases presence near Venezuela amid mounting tensions
US bombers, fighters and surveillance drones have flown along Venezuelaâs coast in recent weeks, reflecting heightened US military activity amid deteriorating relations and concerns over Venezuelan maritime movements. The uptick follows US seizures of Venezuelan-linked tankers and expanded sanctions against Caracas' leadership and shipping networks
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Germany accuses Russia of cyberattack on air traffic control and election interference
German authorities publicly blamed Russia for a cyberattack that disrupted air safety systems and accused Moscow of spreading disinformation ahead of Germany's February general election, allegations Moscow denied as 'absurd'. The accusation adds to mounting Western claims of hybrid operations targeting European democracies
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Peace agreement signed between DRC and Rwanda hosted in Washington
Presidents FÊlix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame formally signed a peace agreement in Washington, D.C., in a ceremony hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump, aiming to end tensions and rebel activity affecting eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The agreement is presented as a diplomatic breakthrough though implementation and rebel demobilization remain key challenges
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EU, governments step up measures to support Ukraine's defense financing
With the EU freezing Russian reserves, policymakers are exploring legal and fiscal frameworks to channel frozen assets and other support toward Ukraineâs military and reconstruction needs, addressing both legal hurdles and political appetite among member states. Analysts warn repurposing assets requires careful legal structuring to withstand challenge
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Arrests and political unrest in Iran and Bangladesh draw international attention
Iranian security forces reportedly arrested 2023 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi violently at a memorial event, raising human rights concerns and international criticism. In Bangladesh, a highâprofile return of Tarique Rahman, son of exâPM Khaleda Zia, is scheduled amid political tensions and questions about his health and legal status
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Malaysia Airlines MH370 families awarded damages by Chinese court
A Beijing court ordered Malaysia Airlines to pay compensation to families of eight missing MH370 passengers, awarding CNÂĨ2.9 million (about US$410,000) each in a longârunning legal process over the 2014 disappearance. The ruling is among several legal developments that continue to follow the unresolved aviation tragedy
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Sudanese conflict: Rapid Support Forces seize Heglig oilfield amid fighting
Fighting in Sudan continued as the Rapid Support Forces captured Heglig, the country's largest oilfield, after Sudanese Armed Forces withdrew, raising concerns about control of energy assets and civilian displacement. The capture risks further destabilizing revenue streams and complicating humanitarian access in conflict zones
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FIFA Futsal Womenâs World Cup: Brazil wins inaugural tournament
Brazil defeated Portugal 3â0 to win the inaugural FIFA Futsal Womenâs World Cup final, marking a milestone for women's futsal and drawing international attention to the sport's growth. The tournament showcased rising investment in women's futsal and expanded global competition structures
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