World Story Archive: October 2026
Every World story on Standard Topic from October 2026, newest first. Each keeps its AI-generated write-up and its sources.
- Iran attacks on Hormuz shipping cut traffic and lift oil prices
Iran's Revolutionary Guard has threatened undersea internet cables in the waterway.
- Rubio visits India to discuss trade and Venezuelan crude
Senator Marco Rubio visited India to discuss trade and the possibility of processing Venezuelan crude oil, a topic he plans to raise with Reliance Industries.
- Second possible Chinese drone mothership spotted near Guangzhou
Satellite-style images show a 150-metre ship on the Pearl River whose design resembles a larger vessel recently launched in Shanghai. Its purpose remains unconfirmed.
- China's clean energy exports rise as Iran war boosts demand
Exports of Chinese vehicles, solar panels and batteries are growing, while domestic electric vehicle sales have slowed.
- US sanctions five Chinese firms over AI trade secrets theft
Washington has blacklisted five Chinese entities tied to a former Google engineer accused of stealing AI trade secrets. Beijing responded by pledging to protect its companies' legitimate interests.
- Modi marks Dussehra in Delhi, urging India to defeat enemies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's head of government, spoke at a Dussehra event in Delhi, linking the festival to self-reliance and urging the nation to rely on its own capabilities and defeat its enemies.
- New Zealand's trade pact with India takes effect
Indian goods now enter New Zealand duty-free across all tariff lines after the India-New Zealand free trade agreement took effect on October 20. India's own tariff cuts vary by product, with some immediate and others phased in over time.
- Zelensky and Witkoff hold Norway talks amid strained US-Ukraine ties
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Norway, with Norway's prime minister and Finland's president also taking part. The talks come as Kyiv accuses Washington of restricting intelligence sharing, which Secretary of State Marco Rubio denies.
- Ambani's Jio Platforms draws $25 billion in IPO bids
Jio Platforms, a cheap broadband internet provider in India, is raising $3.2 billion through its share sale, with its stock market debut set for Wednesday.
- Philippines summons China's envoy over war remarks in sea dispute
Manila formally protested after Ambassador Jing Quan said China could easily win a conflict with the Philippines. Calls for an apology and a Senate move to declare him unwelcome have followed.
- China publishes image of Y-20B aircraft fitted for refuelling
A training image shows the Y-20B transport with underwing refuelling pods, and it can carry enough fuel to top up fighters.
- Rubio in India as trade deal nears completion, Reliance refinery visit set
America's top diplomat, Marco Rubio, expects an agreement with New Delhi within weeks. He also visits Reliance's Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat on Wednesday, a key site in Washington's push to curb Russian oil buyers.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guard says it destroyed US drone
The reports give no stated consequences beyond the Guard's claim that it had downed another American drone.
- China says US warship entered its waters without permission
Beijing's navy says the USS Charleston sailed into waters near Sabina Shoal early Monday without approval, dispatching forces to monitor it and calling the move an illegal intrusion that threatens regional security.
- Students block Paris Louvre entrance amid France-wide education protests
Students returned Monday to block the entrance to the Louvre in Paris, a day after weekend clashes. Alice Cohen-Morzadec, a French student union spokesperson, says the anger is aimed at Macron's policies.
- French government orders partial curfews after weekend of unrest
The interior minister admitted police struggled to control riots in some cities, while the Paris-Barcelona Champions League match is still set for Tuesday.
- Albanian protesters clash with police over luxury resort
Nearly 300 people have been hurt in unrest, most of them police, as demonstrators in Tirana call for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign.
- World Food Programme ends aid for half a million in Gaza
Funding cuts have forced the agency to stop food support for about 500,000 Palestinians, while 200,000 people face famine danger.
- Chinese border crossings rise nearly 8% in third quarter
Border checkpoints in China processed 192 million crossings in July through September 2026, up 7.9 percent from the same period last year, officials said Tuesday.
- RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat warns of external forces weakening India
Speaking on Dussehra, Mohan Bhagwat, head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, called for unity and blamed Western influence for unrest.
- Mines and attacks in Hormuz keep shipping under threat as Iran warns
Iran's Revolutionary Guard says vessels that switch off navigation systems will meet a firm response, while Tehran offers to reopen the strait within six days if Washington meets its conditions.
- Ship attacks in Strait of Hormuz push oil near five-month high
Iran's Revolutionary Guard says mines hit tankers in the strait, and roughly 6,000 sailors are reportedly stranded there. Shipping traffic has dropped about 70%.
- India urges legally binding nuclear disarmament framework at UN
Congress MP Manish Tewari, speaking at the UN General Assembly's First Committee, said nuclear arms decisions must stay under human control rather than artificial intelligence, and reaffirmed India's no-first-use stance.
- China's economy grows 4.5% in third quarter, beating forecasts
Official data showed growth picked up from the spring quarter's pace, driven by exports tied to AI demand, while domestic consumer spending stayed weak.
- Russian drone strike kills children at Kharkiv Oblast park
A Russian drone hit a central park in a Kharkiv Oblast town where families had gathered, and officials say the attack killed several civilians, including young children and an infant. Interior Minister Ivan Vyhivskyi gave the early casualty account.
- Rain-driven floods in eastern Spain leave at least four dead
Floodwaters carried off vehicles and cut off roads in eastern Spain on Monday, trapping people on rooftops. Military and helicopter teams pulled residents to safety.
- Ukrainian troops use drone to evacuate wounded soldier
Ukraine's army says a drone pulled an injured soldier out of a frontline post, calling it the first such evacuation anywhere. Units including the 92nd Separate Assault Brigade and drone maker Gurzuf Defense took part, and video was released.
- Rubio denies US paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine
Ukraine says it got no advance warning of overnight Russian ballistic missile strikes on Kyiv, which killed one person and injured eight. Rubio rejected claims of a US intelligence pause, while a Zelensky adviser blamed US restrictions for civilian deaths.
- Israel detains ten over West Bank assaults on photographer, EU envoys
Police have arrested 10 people after settlers attacked a Washington Post photographer, a French mayor and European Union diplomats during olive harvesting. The photographer, Heidi Levine, 63, is recovering in an Israeli hospital.
- Kenyan court convicts cult leader Paul Mackenzie of murder
A Mombasa court found self-proclaimed preacher Paul Mackenzie guilty over starvation deaths of 191 people, most of them children.
- Houthi missiles hit Yemen training camp, killing dozens as war reignites
Authorities say 50 security recruits died when three missiles struck a government-run camp in Shabwa province. Over 200 people, mostly young, were reportedly wounded.
- China's central bank unveils liquidity support for non-bank firms
Governor Pan Gongsheng of the People's Bank of China said the country will create a support facility for non-bank financial firms hit by heavy withdrawals.
- Lavrov visits Tehran as Iran blames US for Hormuz tensions
Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, held talks in Tehran with Iranian officials, who blamed Washington for regional instability.
- Albertans vote to stay in Canada in historic referendum
Most voters rejected separation, and Prime Minister Mark Carney called the outcome a great result for Canada. Separatist leaders vowed to keep pushing.
- Trump open to three-way talks with Putin and Xi
Russia's Kremlin said the APEC summit in Shenzhen, China, could bring together Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump.
- Rights group accuses Mali's army and rebels of civilian abuses
A new report says Mali's army, its Russian paramilitary allies and armed opponents have committed violations against civilians, including killings.
- Iran keeps Hormuz reopening offer open as tanker hits mine
The Revolutionary Guards have also warned vessels with navigation systems switched off that they will face a firm response.
- Philippines summons Chinese envoy over remarks on force
Manila called in Ambassador Jing Quan after he said Beijing could easily win a conflict, and the envoy later denied threatening the Philippines.
- China's premier visits Tajikistan, pledges wider cooperation
Premier Li Qiang, China's head of government, arrived in Dushanbe for an official visit and a regional summit. Beijing then signaled interest in digital economy and AI ties.
- Rubio holds Mumbai talks with Jaishankar on India trade deal
Rubio met officials from five Central Asian nations and a Uzbekistan business gathering of nearly 300 Americans, outlining minerals, transport and technology cooperation. He then left for India, where he is set to meet S. Jaishankar in Mumbai.
- China unveils tech-driven plan to revive consumer spending
Beijing has introduced a guideline to bring science and technology into commerce, with a stated aim of lifting consumer goods, services, and trade efficiency. The move comes alongside a reported $37 billion subsidy push.
- Trump defends easing Russia sanctions amid Ukraine feud
The president said his plan to end the Ukraine war is simple and justified waiving some Russia sanctions while pressing Kyiv. Zelenskyy said talks with Washington continue almost constantly despite the spat, and Trump accused him of not wanting peace.
- Pope Leo greets crowds in St Peter's Square after surgery
Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Catholic Church, addressed thousands of worshippers on Sunday, thanking them for their prayers during his hospital stay. He said he will gradually return to his duties after recent surgery.
- Netanyahu raises fears of a hostile future US leader
The remarks come ahead of Israel's election, and Netanyahu is seeking closer ties with countries beyond the United States.
- China's economy expands faster than expected on AI-linked exports
Third-quarter GDP rose 4.5% year on year, above the 4.4% forecast, while domestic consumption stayed soft and the yuan hit a four-year high.
- Unidentified projectiles hit tugboat off Strait of Hormuz
Two unidentified projectiles hit a tugboat, prompting the International Maritime Organization's Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, to urge ships to avoid the waterway. About 6,000 seafarers are reportedly trapped nearby as 24 ships face attacks.
- Ukraine rejects Russia's claimed territorial gains as illusion
Kyiv says Moscow's claim to have seized over 1,800 square kilometers since September is false. President Zelensky later said Ukraine has retaken more land than Russia has captured this fall.
- Trump delays Russia sanctions to keep talks alive
Donald Trump has halted a set of planned Russia sanctions just before they were set to start, saying the pause will keep peace talks alive. Ukraine and some US lawmakers strongly object, arguing it signals weakness to the Kremlin.
- Drone blast in Lithuanian airspace prompts NATO jet response
An object believed to be a drone exploded after entering Lithuanian airspace on October 18, damaging a car and sending people to take cover. NATO scrambled jets in response.
- France imposes curfews as riots and looting spread across cities
Protests over living costs and school conditions turned violent over the weekend, drawing an estimated half-million-plus participants. Police have made 2,400 arrests.
- Canada nears China as a holder of U.S. Treasury debt
Official figures put China's recorded U.S. bond holdings at $590.7 billion in August, down from a year earlier, while Canada's reached $464.6 billion.
- Trump pauses Russia sanctions for 60 days, drawing Kyiv's criticism
The U.S. has temporarily halted sanctions on Russia for 60 days, a move criticized by Ukraine's foreign minister and defended by President Trump.
- Rubio says Ukraine's Starshield access remains under discussion
Ukraine currently lacks that access, and its future is still being discussed.
- Truck crashes into temple crowd in India's Gwalior, killing devotees
A loaded truck rammed into worshippers near a Madhya Pradesh temple on Sunday. Death tolls reported range from 12 to 14, with dozens injured.
- Indian police hold Cockroach Janta Party leaders as protests spread
Police in Mumbai detained a demonstrator during a Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026 protest. Student demonstrations have also pressured Prime Minister Narendra Modi over a revision of electoral rolls.
- Taiwan's coast guard drives off 16 Chinese vessels near its islands
Taiwan sent patrol boats to shadow Chinese vessels that entered restricted waters near its Pratas Islands, and on Sunday said the 16 ships had been forced to leave. Taipei calls the activity harassment at sea.
- Protesters across Europe take to streets over housing and living costs
Clashes in Milan led to more than 200 detentions, Italian media say, and Giorgia Meloni called an emergency meeting in response.
- Russia and Ukraine trade mass drone and missile strikes on energy sites
Overnight attacks on both sides killed civilians and damaged homes and infrastructure. Zelenskyy accuses Moscow of breaking an energy ceasefire and seeking a total blackout.
- Indian diaspora protests in London, Dublin over voter roll revision
Protesters in London and Dublin objected to India's revision of its electoral rolls, while YouTuber Dhruv Rathee led a London rally accusing Modi's government of manipulating elections.
- China plans export curbs on 40 key technologies
A draft from China's Ministry of Commerce would restrict foreign shipments of advanced AI, solar and biomedical tools, citing national security concerns.
- Mines and attacks in Hormuz leave ships trapped as talks stall
Fifteen container ships have come under fire in the strait over ten days, and roughly 6,000 seafarers are stranded. Iran says the waterway could reopen within a week if Washington agrees to its terms.
- Pakistan bars Indian aircraft from its airspace until November 24
Pakistan has extended its closure of its skies to Indian planes, military flights included, through November 24, 2026. Indian carriers must take longer routes as a result.
- Israeli voters expected to shift further right in election
Israeli opposition leaders hoping to unseat Netanyahu share largely similar Gaza positions, while European condemnation of Israel grows.
- Fire at Canadian military base in Alberta kills four soldiers
A grass fire during a live-ammunition exercise at CFB Wainwright killed four service members and injured dozens, with 19 reported in critical condition.
- Ukrainian drones attack St Petersburg, sparking fires and one death
A large overnight drone assault on Russia's second-largest city set industrial sites ablaze and left one person dead, officials said.
- Suspected Russian drones hit Black Sea ships six times
Over ten days, six attacks on vessels were carried out by drones believed to be Russian, marking a sharp escalation at sea.
- Some US CEOs reportedly skip Shenzhen APEC summit
China has extended its Shenzhen APEC deadline again, and some American executives are said to stay away over unclear schedule details.
- Romania shoots down two drones that entered its airspace
Romanian jets brought down two Geran-family attack drones after they breached national airspace, according to the Defense Ministry.
- Flydubai pilot recounts fighting off cockpit attack on flight
Indian captain Smit Machchhar says his co-pilot attacked him in the cockpit of a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight, and a plumber helped regain control.
- Iranian fishermen collect goods from Hormuz shipwreck
A viral video shows a man saying he was heading to a sunken vessel for floating phones and perfume, while sellers in Tehran advertise cheap iPhone 18s as war booty.
- Chinese premier Li Qiang visits Uzbekistan on official trip
Li Qiang met Uzbek leaders in Tashkent, pledging closer ties on rail, energy and technology. The visit responds to an invitation from Uzbekistan's prime minister.
- Seven arrested after Kolkata festival stampede kills 19
A crush amid heavy rain at a festival in West Bengal's capital left 19 people dead and 25 hurt on Saturday.
- Settler violence in West Bank hits European diplomats during olive harvest
Israel's military condemned the assault, while the prime minister's office called it part of a 'smear' campaign. France and Belgium have also denounced it.
- Kenya's Ebola cases climb to seven, including health workers
Four new infections were confirmed, three among staff who had cared for the country's first patient, a death tied to the Democratic Republic of Congo outbreak.
- Marco Rubio bypasses New Delhi on India trip
Rubio left Joint Base Andrews for Uzbekistan and India, with his India stop set for October 20. His itinerary covers Mumbai and Jamnagar but skips New Delhi, drawing criticism from Indian opposition leaders amid trade and oil disputes.
- Twelve ships attacked in Strait of Hormuz in one week
The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency recorded a daily high of six attacks on October 11 alone. U.S. Central Command says most attempted attacks fail.
- Taiwan turns to AI to track Chinese military imagery
Taiwan's defense ministry has adopted an automated tool to scan orbital pictures faster, aiming to spot People's Liberation Army vessels, planes and launchers and locate hostile activity at bases near the island.
- Iran offers seven-day Hormuz reopening plan as tanker hits mine
Iran's IRGC Navy says a supertanker hit a sea mine and caught fire, its second such incident in 24 hours. Ship attacks in the strait have hit a record this month.
- Over 1.3 million Albertans vote early in referendum
Advance polling in Alberta's referendum on leaving Canada has drawn 1.3 million ballots as the Monday vote approaches.
- China condemns Japan's Takaichi over Yasukuni shrine offering
Beijing's embassy in Japan called the offering and cabinet visits an affront to historical justice. Lawmakers and cabinet members also visited the war-linked shrine.
- Protesters across France torch buildings and clash with police
Around 1,800 people have been arrested as nationwide demonstrations over living costs and education turned violent.
- Trump suspends some Russia oil sanctions, offering buyers possible relief
President Donald Trump waived some sanctions and tariffs linked to Russia just before they were set to start, through a late Friday order. Experts called the relief temporary, and Indian refiners had already begun cutting purchases beforehand.
- Indian youth protests against election chief persist after Dipke's release
Thousands defied police in New Delhi demanding the resignation of Election Commission head Gyanesh Kumar over alleged tampering. Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke, detained before a rally, was ordered freed by a Delhi court.
- China's envoy urges joint action on nuclear risks
Li Chijiang, China's disarmament envoy, told a UN General Assembly committee on Friday that nations must cooperate to address nuclear risks and challenges. Beijing frames the issue as one of fairness in disarmament talks.
- Iran keeps Strait of Hormuz closed as tanker attacks mount
Ships are being struck near the strait, with two sinking and attacks rising, while Iranian officials say passage must be coordinated and the US military must leave the region.
- Russian drone attacks hit Ukraine's power grid overnight
Strikes on Ukrainian cities killed at least three people in one attack wave, and a later campaign killed at least eight and cut power to one million.
- India dismisses UN expert's youth rights report as unverified
India's first secretary Anuj Swarup dismissed a UN human rights report as hearsay at the UN General Assembly's Third Committee. He defended the country's constitutional safeguards.
- US-Iran war disrupts oil flow through two key waterways
Oil movement through Hormuz and, more recently, Bab al-Mandeb has been badly hit. A retired admiral warns that no substitute structure currently exists to keep global seas stable.
- Tanker reportedly hits mine near Hormuz as Indian crew stay unharmed
Iranian media, citing the Revolutionary Guard, say a supertanker hit a mine and caught fire near the Strait of Hormuz. India's ports minister said every Indian sailor aboard was unhurt.
- Albanian PM Rama blames foreign hands for student protests
Riot police clashed with young demonstrators for a fourth day as the protests over corruption and university conditions grew.
- Putin declares non-negotiable zone inside Ukraine's border
Russian President Vladimir Putin says the territory is off the table in any talks, and the Kremlin puts it at 660km.
- US pauses Russia sanctions for 60 days, drawing bipartisan criticism
President Donald Trump waived sanctions and tariffs tied to Russian oil purchases, and Rubio described the move as a 60-day pause to assess its effect on the global economy. Critics argue it weakens support for Ukraine.
- Lawmakers ask Rubio to raise India's protest detentions
A letter asks US Secretary of State Rubio to push New Delhi for independent probes into alleged rights abuses. India rejected the move as interference and called earlier electoral roll remarks unwarranted.
- Quad members weigh leaders' talks on ASEAN sidelines
US President Donald Trump is set to attend the Manila gathering on Nov 16, improving chances he meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Starlink says it is ready to serve India
Elon Musk's satellite internet company says it is prepared to offer high-speed service in India, while Reliance Industries says it welcomes the competition if rules are followed.
- EU weighs new trade tools as China presses for restraint
Brussels is considering a new instrument that could shut out a foreign competitor in severe situations, as its trade gap with Beijing grows. China has called on the bloc to act sincerely and steer clear of protectionism.
- Youth protests seeking election chief's exit grow as India detains activists
Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke was held before a Delhi march and later granted bail, while two other detained protesters remain in judicial custody.
- US lawmaker seeks to halt Trump's diesel trade deal with Russia
A new bill would stop the agreement, which analysts say mainly benefits Russian companies. The lawmaker argues it will not lower American costs.
- Rubio presses Ethiopia's leader for dialogue amid tensions
The United States is calling for dialogue as differences between Ethiopia and Eritrea escalate in East Africa.
- Chinese court jails six over kindergarten food poisoning
In northwest China's Gansu Province, six people were sentenced, including a preschool's head who received life, after toxic food sickened 247 children.
- Alberta separation referendum nears as over a million ballots are cast
On Friday, Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney made a joint unity appeal at a rally in Red Deer, and by Thursday more than one million ballots had already been cast.
- China drafts curbs on 23 artificial intelligence technologies
Beijing published the draft on Friday, October 16, covering large models, agent software and computing clusters, while open-source releases and API services stay out of scope.
- Ukraine raises Black Sea shipping risks with Turkish ambassador
Ukraine's foreign minister warned Russia's blockade could make the Black Sea as vital to world food supply as the Strait of Hormuz.
- Canada confirms Modi's December visit dates
Prime Minister Mark Carney's office set Narendra Modi's Canada trip for December 11 to 12. The leaders also pledged to speed up talks on a trade pact.
- Alberta heads to separation vote as Carney and Poilievre push unity
Ballots in Alberta's independence referendum passed one million, with Monday's vote approaching. Campaigners on both sides are making final appeals to voters.
- Settler attacks on West Bank olive harvest now hit European diplomats
Violent settlers struck foreign envoys in the occupied territory as Palestinians tried to pick olives. Belgium's foreign minister urged more EU sanctions, while Israel's military condemned the violence.
- Zelensky smiles at question on Trump treating him as scapegoat
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky answered a question about whether U.S. President Donald Trump sees him as a scapegoat by pausing, then replying that he defends Ukraine's interests and its people. The exchange came amid Trump's latest attacks on him.
- Air India extends Saudi Arabia flight cancellations into late October
The airline cited regional tensions and Houthi attacks, offering refunds while it reviews operations.
- Indian police detain 'cockroach' movement founder as Delhi protests grow
Police have detained Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the youth-led movement opposing India's nationwide voter-roll revision, before a planned Delhi protest. The movement vows to return to the streets despite the crackdown.
- US military disputes Iran's claims over Strait of Hormuz
US Central Command rejects Tehran's assertions of authority in the strait and questions how a Singapore-flagged cargo ship went down.
- Zelensky seeks EU backing for weapons and funds in Brussels
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked EU leaders for missiles, funding and Russian assets while warning that Russia's ambitions reach beyond eastern Ukraine.
- EU's von der Leyen plans new Russia sanctions package
The bloc says Russia ignored an energy truce, so pressure must grow. No sanctions will be lifted until the war stops.
- China's central bank governor defends policies on global imbalances
Pan Gongsheng, the People's Bank of China chief, argued global imbalances need a wider view than current accounts and exchange rates, while Finance Minister Lan Foan told European officials in Bangkok that Beijing is ready to cooperate with the EU.
- Ladakh group dismisses China's territorial claim over region
Apex Body Leh, one of two Ladakh groups in talks with the central government, says the region belongs wholly to India and has never historically belonged to China.
- US president eases Russia sanctions that had threatened India with duties
President Donald Trump set aside some Russia-linked sanctions that had put India at risk of 100% duties, after being given 10 days to rule on tariffs tied to Russian oil purchases. The tariff threats were seen as straining US-India ties.
- China to stage global governance forum in Xiongan
Beijing is aiming for practical results from the gathering, which it is convening as part of its drive toward a different model of global governance.
- Trump says US is pursuing nuclear talks with Moscow, Beijing
President Donald Trump said he is discussing denuclearization with Russia and China, amid growing concern over expanding nuclear arsenals.
- Philippines rebukes Chinese envoy over remark on force
Manila objected after China's envoy, Jing Quan, said Beijing could easily prevail in a conflict yet would refrain from force. Philippine officials argued the comments amounted to an implied threat, turning the exchange into a public dispute.
- Supreme Court bars automatic quota benefits for religious converts
The court upheld a High Court order that struck down Tamil Nadu's move to reserve places for Hindus who had converted to Islam.
- Chinese minister Wang Yi presses Israel on West Bank settlements
China's top diplomat urged Israel to halt and reverse West Bank settlement building during talks with President Herzog in Azerbaijan. Beijing also demanded full access to Gaza to prevent a wider humanitarian disaster.
- Iran keeps Strait of Hormuz closed as tanker attacks mount
Iranian forces are said to control the waterway, and ships have been struck near it, with at least 12 attacks reported in one week. A supertanker was reportedly hit by a mine on Oct 17.
- Delhi clampdown on youth 'cockroach' movement deepens as founder is held
Police held the movement's founder, Abhijeet Dipke, before a planned Delhi rally, days after mass arrests and two leaders being locked up.
- France's prime minister says student anger is being manipulated
School protests are sweeping France, with students angry over crumbling classrooms, missing teachers and their future. Unions and other protesters are preparing to join them on the streets.
- China and Pakistan begin first joint army drills in Xinjiang
The exercise, named Karakoram 2026, focuses on counter-terrorism and uses Chinese military technology in high-altitude terrain.
- EU leaders back quick safeguards against Chinese chemical and machinery imports
EU leaders asked Brussels to build trade tools quickly to counter imbalances tied to China's economic policy. Officials are reviewing import data as a record trade deficit widens.
- Iran's ship attacks rise, yet oil keeps moving through Hormuz
Over 12 million barrels a day passed the strait in October, above last month's average, though 26 vessels have been struck since the month began.
- Eritrean troops suffered heavy losses in Tigray, militia says
Ethiopian forces expanded their control in Tigray, while Eritrea denied its troops had moved inside northern Ethiopia. The US called for de-escalation.
- Peshawar school roof collapse leaves dozens of pupils dead
A school roof gave way in Peshawar, Pakistan, and the death toll has been put at 35 by later accounts. Officials have arrested the school's owner and opened an investigation.
- Wang Yi and Lavrov meet in Baku, discuss US relations
Beijing also backed a two-state solution for Palestinians.
- Drones hit two ships off Romania's Black Sea coast
Seven sailors are missing after two tankers caught fire, and Romanian authorities are investigating a possible drone strike after drones violated their airspace overnight.
- India and US finish initial trade pact stage, start legal drafting
India's trade secretary said the opening stage of the commerce agreement with Washington is settled and moving to legal wording, while a few issues remain.
- India orders US citizen Imran Khan to leave over protest
Authorities gave the Bollywood actor until October 28 to depart after he joined a Mumbai demonstration against the election chief. He plans to challenge the notice in court.
- China's regulator reportedly greenlights Alibaba AI for Apple devices
Apple's Tim Cook said Apple Intelligence has been approved in China, with Alibaba's support, and a China-focused launch is planned. The Siri AI feature is excluded from the test version.
- India's jobless rate holds steady at 5% in September
Government data showed the rate for people aged 15 and above stayed unchanged, beating a Reuters poll that expected 5.2%.
- US weighs 'mother of all bombs' option against Iran
Trump has ruled out nuclear weapons against Iran but did not rule out the massive conventional bomb. Officials are evaluating an underground nuclear complex as a possible target.
- Ukraine resumes refinery strikes as energy truce collapses, Trump objects
Russia is hammering Kyiv's power and water supply while Ukraine has restarted drone attacks on Russian oil plants, drawing a sharp rebuke from U.S. President Donald Trump.
- EU weighs tougher China trade steps after hybrid car deal
Brussels plans new measures against Chinese imbalances despite a recent accord on hybrid and electric vehicles, while Beijing says it will keep talking.
- PepsiCo warns Indian court of drink shortages over labeling ban
The company says a ban on its energy drink label could empty store shelves nationwide within two months, while rival Red Bull continues selling under a reprieve.
- Indian police hold thousands as youth protests over voter rolls spread
Police shut the Jantar Mantar protest site and a court jailed two Cockroach Janta Party leaders for five days, while the Supreme Court will hear Rahul Gandhi's petition seeking an independent audit of voter deletions.
- Kenya confirms second Ebola case in patient's family
A second Ebola infection has been logged in Kenya, involving a relative of the country's first patient. Authorities in the border town of Busia are increasing screening for travelers arriving from Uganda.
- India jails two protest leaders as voter-roll purge protests grow
Over 130 million names were stripped from India's electoral rolls, sparking youth-led demonstrations against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.
- Albanian students clash with police in Tirana protests
Student protests in Albania's capital, Tirana, turned violent as demonstrators threw bricks, smashed shop windows and attacked the Education Ministry.
- Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia grow as rebels advance on Taiz
Yemen's Houthi rebels hit Riyadh's airport 20 times in October, a Saudi-led coalition said, while a separate investigation says they are building missiles with Chinese components.
- Chinese chipmaker CXMT's progress sends memory stocks sliding
Shares of Micron, Sandisk and other memory makers fell after reports that China's CXMT advanced new chip designs.
- India sells majority IDBI Bank stake to Canada's Fairfax
Canadian billionaire Prem Watsa's Fairfax Financial Holdings will acquire a 60.72% controlling stake in IDBI Bank for Rs 52,878 crore, about $5.6 billion.
- Iran's attacks on Hormuz shipping hit record as ships sink
Iran's military has claimed responsibility for strikes on vessels in the strait, and a Singapore-flagged container ship went down after a reported mine strike. Tanker arrivals have fallen sharply in recent weeks.
- Mauritius imposes curfew after unrest over police shooting
Protesters blocked roads and burned tyres after police shot a 27-year-old woman. Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam then ordered a curfew.
- Starlink curbs disrupt Ukraine's military as US senators seek probe
Speed limits on Starlink access cut into Ukrainian battlefield operations after restrictions began on Oct. 14. Nine bipartisan US senators are asking for an investigation into the disruption.
- Xi warns Africa's resources should not fuel rivalry
Chinese President Xi Jinping told Botswana's president in Beijing that African resources must stay out of geopolitical competition.
- Air India jet diverted to Jaipur over suspected hijack alert
Flight AI2030 from Frankfurt, carrying more than 300 people, was rerouted after an alleged bomb threat. Security agencies later cleared it to resume its journey to Delhi.
- Boat capsizes in India, killing at least 13 children
Rescuers recovered the bodies of children after a packed boat sank while heading to a festival in eastern India. The search for survivors was continuing.
- China's September exports climb 36.3% on AI-driven demand
Shipments abroad jumped by over a third, the steepest rise since the COVID-19 outbreak, while imports climbed 31 percent.
- Congo's Ebola outbreak surpasses 9,000 cases, deaths over 4,000
Health workers face community mistrust while the Bundibugyo strain drives the Democratic Republic of Congo's worst-ever Ebola outbreak.
- China sends carrier Liaoning into western Pacific drills
The Chinese navy said the Liaoning, one of its three carriers, is conducting an annual training exercise, as Japan and the US prepare Keen Sword maneuvers.
- Beijing warns Taipei over water cannon clash near Pratas
China has warned Taiwan it will face repercussions after a water cannon episode between a Chinese fishing boat and Taiwanese forces near the Pratas Islands. The incident has heightened strain over contested waters.
- Taiwan's foreign minister warns Europe about dependence on China
Speaking in Poland ahead of a summit, Taiwan urged the EU to reduce reliance on Chinese suppliers, citing risks to freedom.
- Modi pitches India as reliable partner amid global pressure
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said supply chains, energy, minerals, payments and technology are increasingly used as tools of pressure, casting India as a stable alternative at a New Delhi forum.
- China's producer prices hit highest level since 2022
Factory-gate prices in China climbed 5% in September from a year earlier, beating forecasts. Consumer inflation also edged up to 0.9%.
- Jaishankar says India and China lack agreed border
Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, made the comments in a Bloomberg interview in Delhi, noting the boundary dispute has lasted for decades.
- Border bridge between Dandong and Sinuiju finally opens after 12 years
Trade between the neighbors, hurt by tensions and pandemic disruption, is expected to recover through the crossing linking Dandong and Sinuiju. The bridge was finished in 2014 but sat unused for roughly 12 years.
- IMF raises world growth forecast, warns of debt risks
The International Monetary Fund slightly lifted its outlook for the global economy this year, while flagging risks from rising borrowing and AI-driven market excitement.
- China sentences three to death over Myanmar scam centers
A Chinese court handed death sentences to three members of a crime syndicate that operated scam compounds in Myanmar, where police reportedly found victims' remains bound with iron chains. Dozens more were jailed for fraud, trafficking and murder.
- Germany opens case against Ukrainian over Nord Stream blasts
Serhii Kuznetsov, once an officer in Ukraine's army, denies charges of complicity in war crimes over the 2022 pipeline attacks as his Hamburg trial began Wednesday.
- Malaysia's Firefly cancels Singapore flights over Indonesian haze
Firefly has halted flights to Singapore as smoke from Indonesian fires pushes the cities of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to the top of global pollution rankings.
- Iranian Guards commander warns of attacks on US ships near Hormuz
Rear Admiral Ali Azmaei, a senior commander, said Iranian forces were preparing to meet American vessels near the strait. Washington rejected Iran's claim of control, saying American forces and partners hold the waterway.
- Russian strikes hit Kyiv's power and water as missiles fall again
Russian drone strikes left parts of Kyiv without electricity and reduced water pressure, with fires burning, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
- Saudi Arabia strikes oil depots near Yemen's capital
Civilians were warned to leave Sana'a's outskirts before the attack, which targeted Houthi energy infrastructure. The Houthis have threatened retaliation against Riyadh and Dammam.
- China objects as India names 28 Ladakh sites
Beijing says the region is its own and calls the naming illegal, while New Delhi rejects the claim and says China's denial cannot alter the facts.
- Modi and Carney hold phone call on India-Canada ties
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney discussed closer engagement and agreed to speed up a trade pact. They also aim to double bilateral trade by 2030.
- UK intelligence chief sees rising state threats, citing Iran and Russia
MI5 chief Ken McCallum's annual update warned that Russia, Iran and AI-related risks are growing dangers to Britain. He said Iran is increasing targeting of military bases, and 50 arrests were made in the past year.
- Hackers spoil food in hundreds of French supermarket freezers
An overnight intrusion into remote systems pushed refrigeration units at many stores to high temperatures, ruining goods estimated at millions of euros.
- Iranian navy says tanker burned near Hormuz, amid attack reports
A tanker caught fire east of the Strait of Hormuz on Oct 13 after Iran's navy said it had switched off its tracking and tried to pass a restricted area.
- Hyundai plans $15.5 billion India investment through 2032
The South Korean carmaker will spend over seven years on production, research and mobility in India, including a dedicated investment entity there.
- Britain sanctions two Iranians over RAF base plot
Officials say Iran likely coordinated incidents at two RAF bases, and Tehran has offered help with the investigation.
- Alberta separation vote nears as Carney urges Canadian unity
Albertans vote October 19 on whether to begin legal separation talks. Prime Minister Mark Carney, in his Thanksgiving message, called Canada worth fighting for, and a doctors' group survey found over half of respondents would leave if Alberta became independent.
- Attacks sink a container ship in Strait of Hormuz and slow traffic
More than 20 vessels have been struck over the past two weeks, with Tehran claiming control of the waterway and targeting ships it says pass without permission.
- Trump rejects claims Russia and China are aiding Iran
Trump said he doubts Moscow and Beijing are backing Tehran in the war, arguing both have far more to lose by doing so.
- China tightens border security after suspected plague death in Russia
A 28-year-old lab worker died at a Siberian anti-plague institute, prompting China to step up checks. Russia has not fully explained the death, and critics say questions remain.
- India's security adviser Doval holds phone talks with Iran's Rezaei
The two officials discussed regional and international developments as well as shared interests between their countries during a phone call.
- Drones hit two ships off Bulgaria's Black Sea coast
One vessel sank and another was damaged after drone strikes, with rescue operations underway, according to the reports. The Bulgarian prime minister called the attacks unacceptable.
- IMF slashes Gulf growth outlook over prolonged Hormuz shutdown
The IMF has lowered its 2026 projections for Gulf nations because the Strait of Hormuz has stayed closed for an extended period.
- China and Russia pledge deeper maritime and Arctic cooperation
Wang Yi said Beijing and Moscow will strengthen strategic trust and widen ties on sea and Arctic routes, a partnership he described as growing in importance.
- Indian court jails youth protest leaders as voter-roll unrest spreads
Police have detained large numbers of youth protesters, who are demanding the election chief's resignation over the removal of about 130 million names from voter rolls. Critics say the changes favor Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party.
- Armenia and China sign freight transport facilitation deal
Armenia and China have concluded an accord aimed at easing the movement of cargo, following a high-level gathering in Beijing on the Trans-Caspian route.
- Sunak says India and Gulf states gaining strategic independence
Speaking Tuesday, the former British leader argued that nations are less bound to choose sides between Washington and Beijing amid rising global uncertainty.
- China's central bank lets Visa prepare a domestic clearing business
China's central bank has cleared Visa to start preparing a domestic card clearing institution, letting the U.S. firm begin groundwork in the country's payments market. Visa's CEO Ryan McInerney called it a significant step.
- UK delegation in India unlocks over £1 billion in deals
Among the announced items are a £50 million investment in AI research in Britain and an aviation expansion by Menzies Aviation.
- Roman Abramovich's staff allegedly altered records to conceal wealth
An investigation alleges staff, including Deloitte Cyprus employees, backdated over 1,000 files to hide holdings and reduce tax bills.
- France boards sanctioned Russian-linked tanker in Indian Ocean
French naval forces boarded the DF Peak, formerly the Kaliningrad, in the Indian Ocean near Reunion Island. The tanker was suspected of oil smuggling and had falsely flown Benin's flag despite sanctions from several Western governments.
- Alberta opens 310 advance polls for historic secession vote
Roughly 310 advance polling stations opened Tuesday as Albertans weigh whether their province should leave Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged them to stay, warning that separation would be a lengthy and unclear path.
- NATO commander vows to destroy any force attacking alliance territory
NATO's supreme commander said forces under his control would annihilate any assault on alliance soil, and he unveiled a new plan to counter a possible Russian push into Europe. European officials have also called for heightened watchfulness against Russian attacks.
- Chinese automakers lean on exports as home car sales slump
September saw China's home car sales fall 28.1 percent to about 1.63 million, the 12th consecutive monthly drop, while overseas shipments surged 73.2 percent to 923,000 units. The EU has suggested a deal could cut Chinese hybrid exports by half.
- Pope Leo XIV recovering well after surgery to remove lung tumor
Tests after the 90-minute operation on Tuesday came back normal, and the 71-year-old pontiff is eating, walking and doing breathing exercises.
- Andy Burnham says Russian interference in Brexit vote is clear
The claim is the first by a UK prime minister to publicly acknowledge Russian involvement in the 2016 referendum, and he later tied it to calls for closer EU ties.
- Iran's attacks on Strait of Hormuz shipping reach record high
Two cargo ships have sunk in the waterway, including a Singapore-flagged vessel, while the US military contests Tehran's claims of control.
- EU approves biggest-ever set of sanctions on Russia
Foreign ministers formally signed off on a blacklist covering nearly 1,600 individuals and firms tied to Russia's military-industrial complex, with more than half linked to ballistic missile production.
- Drone strike shuts Yandex data centre in Vladimir
A Yandex facility went offline after a drone attack, the third strike on the company's sites within a week, according to the reports. Russia is now weighing protective measures for data centres.
- China sanctions Paraguayan and Belizean ministers over Taiwan ties
Beijing has imposed sanctions on officials from two countries, citing sovereignty and Taiwan separatism as grounds for the measures.
- Germany's labour minister Bärbel Bas quits both her posts
The departure follows the death of a stepdaughter and political attacks, deepening strain on a fragile coalition. Finance minister Lars Klingbeil also scrapped part of an Asia tour.
- Pakistan's president suspends Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government led by Khan's party
Emergency rule was declared Sunday in the northwestern province bordering Afghanistan, as backers of the jailed ex-premier planned a march toward Islamabad.
- India's retail inflation climbs to 5.54% in September
Retail price growth in India hit 5.54% in September, up from 4.83% in August and beating forecasts of 5.4%. Food inflation accelerated to 7.74%, and the rate has now risen for 11 straight months.
- Doctoral student Neha Bora emerges as face of Indian youth protests
The 29-year-old, who is studying for a PhD, is now among the most recognizable figures in a movement seen as the sternest test for Prime Minister Narendra Modi in years.
- EU and China strike hybrid car deal as Brussels readies tougher trade steps
Beijing agreed to limit hybrid car exports and cut tariffs, while EU leaders prepare new measures against Chinese imports. Industry groups say the deal helps stability but leaves car parts unaddressed.
- Indian villagers rally against $87 billion river project
Tribal residents in Ajaygarh, on the Ken River, lay on mock pyres, saying they would choose death over surrendering land for inadequate payouts.
- Houthi media say Saudi-led coalition struck Sanaa targets
Houthi-aligned media reported strikes on Houthi-held territory, including Sanaa's airport, and Houthi rebels later reported airstrikes on two Sanaa districts.
- Taiwan monitors Chinese live-fire drills along its coast
China's maritime safety body issued no-sail notices for five areas, with drills scheduled through Friday. Taiwan's defence minister said the exercises create regional insecurity.
- US seizes tools of Chinese-linked hacking firm Flax Typhoon
American authorities took control of hacking tools tied to a Chinese-government-linked group that operated a portal giving access to stolen email. Australia's Signals Directorate joined a seven-nation warning about the campaign, which reportedly targeted Taiwanese infrastructure and universities.
- Iran offers to mediate between Saudi Arabia and Houthis
Iran's foreign minister, speaking with his Saudi counterpart, urged diplomacy and offered to help broker talks between Riyadh and the Houthis, as Houthi attacks inside Saudi Arabia grew more lethal. No further outcome from the diplomatic efforts has been reported.
- Hormuz tanker attacks spread as Iran launches missiles toward UAE
Several vessels were hit near the strait, and two Indian sailors remain unaccounted for after drone strikes. Talks over reopening the waterway are stalled.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guard hits tankers near Hormuz as peace talks stall
Three vessels were reportedly struck in two days, two Indian sailors are missing, and India has condemned the attacks as diplomacy over reopening the waterway remains stuck.
- Volkswagen chief presses EU for rules to counter cheaper Chinese brands
Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume backed an EU Made in Europe plan to counter lower-priced Chinese carmakers, urging a regulatory framework to support the firm's restructuring after its largest-ever layoffs.
- Russian strike hits Kharkiv grocery store and residential area
Authorities reported several dead and dozens hurt after a strike landed near a shop and homes. Footage captured the moment of impact on a residential street.
- Hurricane Simon strengthens into Category 4 storm off Mexico
Forecasters tracked the storm as it moved toward the Pacific coast, with businesses in Puerto Vallarta boarding up windows.
- India's Delhi protests over election chief grow as police detain thousands
Opposition parties and youth activists marched toward the Supreme Court after police detained thousands, while New Delhi was locked down and metro stations shut. Journalists have accused police of targeting reporters covering the demonstrations.
- Nepal orders evacuation along Budhi Gandaki after flash flood
Torrents on Sunday carried off buildings and a span in the north-central part of the country, prompting authorities to tell people along the river to leave.
- Iran attacks tankers near Strait of Hormuz as reopening talks stall
Iran's Revolutionary Guard says it struck several oil tankers, and India condemned attacks that left two Indian sailors missing. Tehran says it will answer Washington's latest response through mediators.
- Russia keeps striking Ukraine despite Trump's energy truce
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Moscow kept attacking power facilities and cities even after Trump announced an energy ceasefire. Trump has declined to say Russia broke it.
- Abbas delays Palestinian legislative elections to 2027
The Palestinian president has pushed back a vote planned for November 2026, moving it into next year by decree. Public reaction has followed the postponement.
- Spanish police clear last migrant beach camp in Ceuta
Officers moved people onto buses bound for reception centres before cleaning crews cleared the sand. The clearance came ahead of a royal visit.
- Maextro V800 minivan fails emergency braking test in China
Independent tests found brake pedal mounts broke in three vehicles during simulated hard stops, raising concerns about the $150,000 model's safety.
- Former Wuhan mayor jailed over bribery conviction
A Chinese court sentenced Zhou Xianwang to a 14-year prison term after convicting him of taking bribes.
- Polish police probe reported plan against Tusk and defence chief
Authorities in Poland are looking into information about a possible attack on the prime minister and his defence minister. The defence minister said the matter is being treated very seriously.
- Zelensky says Kyiv will halt refinery strikes under energy truce
Zelensky said Ukraine would stop hitting Russian oil sites only if Moscow also stops attacking Ukrainian power infrastructure, blaming Putin for refusing.
- Chinese mathematicians form AI research alliance under Yau
Yau, a Fields Medal winner, is heading a push to bring artificial intelligence into mathematical study, with more than a thousand researchers expected to join.
- Boat carrying migrants overturns near Djibouti, leaving 139 dead
Rescue teams searched the waters near Guhere after a vessel holding over 300 people went down. Later counts showed 84 people still unaccounted for.
- Taiwan's volunteer military falls short of staffing target
Taiwan's volunteer military staffing was 76.62 percent at the end of June, below its 80 percent target.
- India rejects Pakistan's Kashmir claims at the UN
India's UN envoy said Jammu and Kashmir is an inseparable part of India, while Pakistan warned of a possible pretext for a strike.
- Cockroach Janta Party founder freed after detention in Delhi
Abhijeet Dipke walked out of court after being held on arrival in the capital, and he immediately criticised Prime Minister Modi.
- Swadeshi Jagran Manch seeks ban on Starlink in India
The RSS-linked economic group condemned Elon Musk's remarks about India and asked authorities to stop Starlink's entry, citing national security.
- Justice Department probes TV networks over White House pool access
The department is examining whether networks pulling back from Trump coverage broke antitrust law, after the White House restricted access for several outlets.
- China's securities regulator gathers market ideas to steady stocks
Chairman Wu Qing met listed companies and brokerage and fund experts over the weekend to collect suggestions for improving capital markets.
- Tractor-riding farmers held up near Noida-Delhi border
Delhi Metro closed 45 stations during the CJP protest, and two Namo Bharat stations, Sarai Kale Khan and New Ashok Nagar, also stayed shut.
- Trump rules out Iran strikes before midterms
Trump says Iran is weak economically and militarily, while tanker attacks near Hormuz have slowed shipping to a crawl.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guard widens tanker attacks beyond Hormuz, hitting ships on unauthorized routes
Iran's naval force claims strikes on tankers using routes it has not approved, now reaching into the Gulf. Hormuz traffic has fallen and a supertanker later exploded after hitting a mine, the Guard said.
- US sanctions International Criminal Court in push to dismantle it
Washington has placed new penalties on the tribunal, which it says has become politicized, and allies including European states have pushed back in its defense.
- Reserve Bank of India tightens dollar curbs to support rupee
The central bank cut dollar demand and drained banking liquidity, while the rupee sits close to its all-time weakness and bond yields climb.
- Trump jokingly floats renaming Strait of Hormuz after himself
During remarks, the US president quipped that the waterway could become the 'Trump Strait,' while also discussing possible Iran actions.
- Tanker attacks near Strait of Hormuz continue as Iran and US talks stall
Two Indian seafarers are missing after a drone strike on a vessel near Oman's Sohar port, while Iran says Washington's reply on reopening the strait falls short.
- INDIA bloc escalates campaign against election chief Gyanesh Kumar, plans mega Delhi protest Monday
Opposition MPs, stopped by police earlier in the week, met the President with a four-point charter, and now plan a large protest. The BJP has attacked Rahul Gandhi over his account of the meeting.
- India's youth-led Cockroach protests spread as police detain demonstrators
Authorities have jailed two leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party after a banned Delhi protest, and the Supreme Court is weighing a petition over the voter-roll revision.
- Hurricane Isaias strikes Florida, leaving power outages across Gulf states
Isaias came ashore in Florida as a life-threatening storm, and nearly a million people across three states were without electricity the next day.
- Shipping firms pay tanker captains up to $100,000 a month
Captains guiding oil tankers through the Persian Gulf strait can reportedly earn as much as $100,000 monthly, according to shipping insiders and unions.
- UAE accuses flydubai co-pilot of planning Israeli airport attack
Authorities say the suspect confessed to working by himself, having readied his mind and body, and was allegedly aiming for Ben Gurion.
- Navi Pillay receives Nobel Peace Prize for human rights work
The former UN rights chief was praised by advocates, though Israel criticized the choice. She later called US penalties on the ICC unheard of.
- India detains protest leaders as voter-roll protests spread in Delhi
Demonstrators want the election chief to quit after more than 130 million names were removed from voter lists. Critics say the purge benefits the party of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Ethiopia and Eritrea trade accusations amid fears of regional war
Ethiopia and Eritrea are accusing each other of launching war, as fighting in northern Ethiopia raises fears of a wider regional conflict.
- Houthi strikes on Riyadh prompt flight cancellations and Saudi counterstrikes
Houthi missiles have targeted Riyadh for three days, killing one person at the airport, while Saudi forces have hit fuel depots near Sana'a.
- Taiwan's Lai pledges bigger defence spending amid China pressure
Taiwan's president said on Saturday that raising defence outlays aims to deter war, as he rejected giving up the island's freedom.
- Trump administration suspends PERM green card reviews for eight tech firms
Companies including Microsoft, Infosys, Tata and Wipro are affected, with the government arguing the practice has shut Americans out of jobs.
- Panama hit by strong quake, prompting tsunami warnings across region
A powerful offshore earthquake and a strong aftershock shook Panama, damaging buildings and sending residents fleeing, though no deaths were reported.
- US eases Russian diesel sanctions, drawing Ukraine clash and bipartisan backlash
Trump's temporary lifting of sanctions on Russian fuel has drawn criticism from both US parties and sharp exchanges with Kyiv.
- Russia keeps striking Ukraine as Trump's energy truce frays
Ukraine says it halted strikes on Russian refineries, but Moscow kept hitting Ukrainian energy sites, injuring dozens. Senators have urged Trump to scrap a diesel deal with Russia.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards strike more tankers in Hormuz as supertanker explodes after hitting mine
Ships using routes the Guards have not approved are being hit almost daily in the strait. A supertanker caught fire Saturday, and the UAE rescued 22 crew from a burning tanker.
- China and EU reach 16 accords, easing rare earth export licences
The package includes simpler licensing for rare earth exports, while the United States still faces supply uncertainty.