Latest World News
Heavy Russian strikes hit Kyiv ahead of Zelenskyy–Trump talks
Russia launched large overnight drone and missile attacks that struck Kyiv and other regions, causing power outages and civilian casualties, ahead of planned talks between President Zelenskyy and former US President Trump; Ukrainian officials said dozens of drones were used and infrastructure was damaged.
Israel formally recognizes Somaliland, prompting Somali backlash
Israel announced recognition of Somaliland’s independence, becoming the first UN member to do so and triggering diplomatic protests from Somalia and regional concerns about precedent and territorial integrity.
Thailand and Cambodia sign ceasefire to halt weeks of border clashes
Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a ceasefire to pause fighting after weeks of intense clashes along their border that included airstrikes and artillery exchanges; residents and officials warned implementation and verification will be difficult.
Myanmar holds first election since 2020 under military rule amid boycott claims
Polls opened in Myanmar for the military-run government’s first election in five years, a vote criticized by opposition groups and international observers who report restrictions and low participation in many areas.
Fighting intensifies in Gaza and southern Lebanon with Israeli–Hezbollah exchanges
Airstrikes and ground operations continued in Gaza while exchanges of fire occurred near Lebanon’s south, with reports of casualties and destroyed infrastructure as regional tensions remain high.
Japan approves record defense budget aiming to deter China
Japan’s Cabinet approved a record defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen focused on strengthening deterrence and bolstering missile, air, and maritime capabilities amid concerns about regional security.
Russia claims large-scale air-defense successes against Ukrainian drones
Russian defence authorities reported intercepting and destroying over 100 Ukrainian drones during concentrated attacks, reflecting continued high-intensity aerial exchanges in the Russia–Ukraine war.
Algerian parliament labels French colonization a crime and seeks restitution
Algerian legislators voted to declare French colonization a crime and demanded restitution and recognition of historical injustices stemming from 130 years of colonial rule, a move likely to strain Franco-Algerian relations.
Deadly highway crash in Japan during holiday travel season
A major multi-vehicle crash on a snowy Japanese expressway killed at least one person and injured dozens, highlighting travel hazards as holiday traffic surged across the country.
Turkey investigates black boxes after crash that killed Libya’s military chief
Turkish authorities began technical analysis of aircraft black boxes following a crash that killed Libya’s military chief and others; an official military funeral was held for Libyan officers.
International economic and policy updates: aid and budgets for Ukraine
Countries continue mobilizing financial and military support for Ukraine, including recent aid announcements and national budget increases aimed at security and reconstruction funding amid ongoing war demands.
Security sweep in Turkey detains suspects tied to planned holiday attacks
Turkish authorities arrested more than 100 suspects in Istanbul believed linked to planned attacks on non-Muslim holiday festivals, seizing weapons and documents during the counterterrorism operation.