Latest World News
Indonesia Floods Death Toll Rises to 604 with 464 Missing
The toll from devastating floods in Indonesia has increased to 604 people killed and 464 more missing, linked to the 2025 North Indian Ocean cyclone season including Cyclone Senyar. A landslide is also reported in the region. Recovery efforts continue amid ongoing natural disasters.
Nigeria Grants Asylum to Guinea-Bissau Opposition Leader
Nigeria has granted asylum to Guinea-Bissau presidential candidate Fernando Dias da Costa at its embassy in Bissau, protecting him from detention by the military junta following the 2025 coup. This move highlights tensions in Guinea-Bissau's foreign relations. The opposition leader sought refuge amid political instability.
Trump Pardons Former Honduran President Hernández
Former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández was released from a US prison in West Virginia after President Donald Trump pardoned him for aiding large-scale cocaine trafficking. The pardon ends his conviction in US-Honduras relations context. Hernández had been imprisoned for drug-related crimes.
Canada Joins EU Security Action for Defense Market Access
Canada agreed to join the European Union's Security Action for Europe initiative, enhancing access for Canadian defense firms to EU markets and encouraging European investment. This strengthens Canada-EU relations. The deal promotes bilateral defense cooperation.
Philippines Cancels Passport of Corruption Suspect Zaldy Co
President Bongbong Marcos announced the cancellation of former Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co's passport over alleged involvement in a flood control corruption scandal. Agencies are tasked to facilitate his return for investigation. The scandal involves large-scale graft in flood projects.
Canada Designates New Terrorist Entities Including IS-Mozambique
Canada designated 764, Islamic State – Mozambique Province, Terrorgram, and Maniac Murder Cult as terrorist entities to combat extremism. This enhances national security measures. The listings target global terror networks operating internationally.
Brazil Approves Bill Reducing Penalties for Bolsonaro's Coup Charges
Brazil's Chamber of Deputies passed a bill reducing penalties for crimes including attempted coup, potentially shortening former president Jair Bolsonaro's 27-year sentence. The measure addresses his ongoing legal battles. It could significantly impact his imprisonment.
Belarus Releases 123 Political Prisoners After US Lifts Sanctions
Belarus freed 123 political prisoners, including Nobel laureate Ales Bialiatski and Maria Kalesnikava, following US sanctions relief. This marks a shift in Belarus-US relations and human rights. The releases follow diplomatic concessions.
Deadly Gas Explosion Levels Pennsylvania Nursing Home
A gas explosion destroyed part of a nursing home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, killing two and injuring dozens in a mass casualty incident. First responders searched for survivors amid holiday chaos. Police are investigating the cause.
Two Russian Police Killed in Moscow Explosion
Two Russian police officers died in a Moscow explosion, days after a car bomb killed general Fanil Sarvarov. The incidents heighten security concerns in Russia. Investigations point to targeted attacks.
Seven MERS-CoV Cases Reported in Saudi Arabia, Two in France
Saudi Arabia reported seven MERS-CoV cases with two deaths between June and December 2025, plus two imported cases in France. No epidemiological links found among cases; contact tracing ongoing. WHO assesses ongoing zoonotic risk with 2635 global cases total.
130 Kidnapped Schoolchildren Returned in Nigeria
130 schoolchildren kidnapped in Nigeria have been returned safely. The release alleviates a major humanitarian crisis. Details on negotiations remain limited.