Rising Tensions and Humanitarian Crises Worldwide

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has announced that some state-funded perks for politicians will be reversed in an attempt to quell nationwide protests. The protests, which have been ongoing for a week, have been fueled by a range of issues including a new monthly allowance for lawmakers and the death of a ride-sharing driver. The demonstrations have led to clashes between protesters and police, resulting in injuries and deaths. Prabowo has ordered the police and armed forces to take strong action against looting and property damage. Despite the concessions, protesters continue to demand higher wages, lower taxes, and stronger anti-corruption measures. The protests are seen as a test for Prabowo's leadership since he assumed the presidency in October.

The article discusses the appointment of Sergio Gor as the US Ambassador to India by President Donald Trump. Gor is a close ally of Trump and has been involved in his 2024 campaign. The appointment has received mixed reactions in India, with some seeing it as a positive sign for India-US ties, while others are concerned about Gor's lack of diplomatic experience and the potential for increased US interference in India's relations with Pakistan. The article also highlights Gor's background, including his Uzbek origin and his rise through the Republican Party ranks.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he reached 'understandings' with US President Donald Trump regarding the end of the Ukraine war during their meeting in Alaska last month. Putin continued to defend Russia's invasion of Ukraine, blaming the West for the conflict. Trump had set a deadline for Putin to agree to peace talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but Putin's response remains unclear. The situation remains tense, with Russia launching its second-largest aerial attack on Ukraine recently. Putin's comments come as China and India, major buyers of Russian crude oil, have been criticized for supporting the Russian economy amidst the war.

The UN Secretary General has demanded the release of 11 UN staff arrested by Houthi authorities in Yemen. The detentions occurred during raids on UN premises in Sanaa and Hudaydah. The Houthis have been holding 23 other UN workers since 2021. The arrests have been condemned by the UN, and the organisation has suspended movement in Houthi-held areas in the past. The situation is set against a backdrop of heightened tension following an Israeli attack on Houthi officials and ongoing conflict in Yemen.

A flotilla carrying humanitarian aid and activists, including Greta Thunberg and Liam Cunningham, turned back due to stormy weather while attempting to reach Gaza and break the Israeli blockade. The Global Sumud Flotilla aims to deliver aid to Gaza, where a nearly 23-month war has killed over 63,000 people and left half a million facing catastrophic hunger. Israel has intensified its attacks around Gaza City, and the flotilla organizers plan to try again once the weather improves.

The Israeli military has intensified its attacks on Gaza City, claiming to have killed Abu Obeida, a spokesperson for Hamas' armed wing, in an airstrike. The operation aims to dismantle Hamas' military capacity following the group's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 251 abductions. The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 63,371 Palestinian deaths since the conflict began. The UN has declared a famine in Gaza City, but Israel denies this, claiming supplies are reaching residents. Civilians are facing dire conditions, with many unable or unwilling to flee the combat zone despite Israeli warnings.

A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, 2025, killing over 800 people and injuring at least 2,500 others. The quake destroyed numerous villages in Kunar province and neighboring Nangarhar, with several aftershocks rattling the region throughout the night. Rescue operations were underway, with medical teams and aid organizations providing emergency assistance to affected families. The disaster comes as Afghanistan is already grappling with a humanitarian crisis following the Taliban's takeover in 2021 and subsequent severing of ties with the Western world.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem discussed the expansion of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Chicago and other cities during an interview on 'Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.' Noem stated that the operations aim to target dangerous criminals and remove them from the country, citing the success of similar operations in Los Angeles. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized the plans, calling them 'inflaming passions' and 'anti-American.' Noem responded by highlighting Chicago's high murder rate and accusing Pritzker of failing to protect his constituents.

US President Joe Biden is not mentioned, but former President Donald Trump expressed doubt about arranging a one-on-one meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump had previously suggested that he would facilitate talks between the two leaders. Zelenskyy expressed frustration with Russia's lack of constructive engagement in negotiations, and Ukraine's European allies have accused Putin of dragging his feet in peace efforts. Russia continues its assault on Ukrainian cities, with Moscow's forces taking more Ukrainian territory and capturing settlements.

A U.S. appeals court has ruled that most of the tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump are illegal, but will allow them to remain in place until October 14 to give the administration time to appeal. The decision has introduced uncertainty into the markets, potentially affecting stocks that had a strong August. China's factory activity unexpectedly expanded in August, and U.S. stocks had a winning month. The article also highlights the upcoming August jobs report and its potential impact on the markets.

European stock markets rose on Monday, driven by gains in the defense and healthcare sectors. The Stoxx Aerospace and Defense index increased by 1.65% following the U.K. government's announcement that Norway had ordered £10 billion worth of British-made warships. Shares of BAE Systems, Renk Group, and Babcock International also rose. Novo Nordisk's shares ticked 3% higher after the company released positive trial data for its weight management drug Wegovy. The article also discusses regional market trends, upcoming economic data releases, and the impact of the U.S. Federal Reserve's potential interest rate cut.

Indonesia is facing a challenging political climate as widespread protests over rising living costs, lawmakers' pay, and police violence have negatively impacted investor sentiment. The Jakarta Composite Index fell 3.6% and the Indonesian rupiah depreciated to its weakest level since August 1. Despite the short-term turmoil, investors remain optimistic about Indonesia's long-term economic prospects. Analysts believe the near-term pressure on the rupiah will be temporary and that Indonesia's stable emerging market status will help it weather the current unrest. The government is expected to take steps to address public demands and restore market confidence.

A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Sunday, killing hundreds and injuring thousands. The quake hit the Kunar province near the Pakistan border, with rescuers struggling to reach remote communities due to landslides and destroyed roads. At least 800 people were killed and over 2,000 injured. The Taliban-ruled country is already facing hunger and economic crises, with deep cuts to international humanitarian aid. The United Nations is delivering emergency assistance on the ground. Afghanistan is prone to earthquakes, with a history of devastating quakes in the region.

The Flying Tigers, a group of American mercenaries who fought for China during World War II, are still revered in China today. The group was formed in 1941 by Claire Chennault, a retired US Army captain, and consisted of around 300 Americans who flew, repaired, and maintained aircraft. They were known for their bravery and skill in combat, destroying hundreds of Japanese planes while losing relatively few of their own. The Flying Tigers' legacy has endured, with their descendants being invited to attend a military parade in Beijing commemorating the end of World War II. The article highlights the strong bond between the US and China during World War II, despite current tensions between the two nations.

Global media outlets are uniting to protest Israel's killing of journalists in Gaza, with nearly 200 outlets from 50 countries participating in a coordinated demonstration. The protest, organized by Reporters Without Borders, Avaaz, and the International Federation of Journalists, aims to draw attention to the alarming number of journalists killed during Israel's war in Gaza. At least 210 journalists have been killed since October 7, 2023, making it the deadliest conflict for reporters in modern times. Israel has barred international media from reporting freely in Gaza, leaving Palestinian journalists to report under fire. The demonstration includes print newspapers running blacked-out front pages, broadcasters and radio stations interrupting their programming, and online outlets disrupting their home pages.

North Korea has released a propaganda video praising its soldiers who fought for Russia in the war against Ukraine. The 20-minute video, released by North Korean state media KCTV, shows dramatized shots of soldiers on the battlefield, handling weapons, and holding meetings with Russian soldiers. The video is seen as a way for North Korea to showcase its military might and loyalty to the party and leader Kim Jong Un. The release of the video comes ahead of Kim's visit to Beijing to attend a military parade with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The video is part of North Korea's efforts to portray Kim as a major leader and to further the narrative that North Korea is forming a solidarity front with powerful countries.

A new book titled 'Power and the Palace' by Valentine Low claims that Queen Camilla fought off an attempted assault on a train when she was a teenager. The anecdote was shared by Guto Harri, who heard it from Camilla during a meeting with Boris Johnson. According to the story, Camilla took off her shoe and hit the attacker 'in the nuts with the heel' before reporting the incident to a man in uniform at Paddington station. The story is seen as consistent with Camilla's long-standing campaign against domestic violence and support for survivors of sexual assault. CNN has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment, but the palace has not released an official statement.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China, highlighted China's emergence as a global leader, with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin standing together in opposition to the US-led world order. Xi criticized 'bullying practices' and 'hegemonism,' phrases often used to criticize the US, and unveiled a Global Governance Initiative aimed at reshaping the international order. The summit showcased the close ties between China and Russia, as well as their shared opposition to Western-led alliances and the US's 'America First' foreign policy. Xi pledged $280 million in grants and $1.4 billion in loans to SCO member states, promoting economic cooperation and a multipolar world order.

The Philippines is grappling with a rising number of teenage pregnancies, particularly among girls aged 14 and younger. A proposed Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill aims to standardize comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in schools and improve access to sexual health services. However, the bill faces fierce opposition from conservative organizations and church groups, who believe it promotes immoral values and undermines parental authority. The Catholic Church, which has significant influence in the country, is particularly opposed to the bill, citing its teachings on abstinence and natural family planning. The debate highlights the complex interplay between faith, culture, and public policy in the Philippines.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted an airstrike in Yemen, killing Houthi Prime Minister Ahmed Al-Rahawi and several other senior officials. The strike was in response to Houthi attacks on Israel and was made possible by intelligence gathered by the IDF. The IDF stated that it will continue to target threats against Israeli civilians. The strike is Israel's second against the Houthis in a week, following a previous strike that killed six people and wounded 86 others. The conflict between Israel and the Houthis has been ongoing for nearly two years, with the Houthis operating under Iran's direction to harm Israel and its allies.

Russia has blamed the US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump for Tehran's subsequent violations of the agreement. Russia's UN Ambassador, Dmitry Polyanskiy, argued that the US decision to abandon the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) led to the deterioration of the situation. The UK, France, and Germany (E3) have triggered the snapback mechanism to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran within 30 days due to its non-compliance with the JCPOA. Russia and China have introduced a draft UN Security Council resolution to extend the timeline of the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement by six months.

The UK, France, and Germany have triggered a mechanism to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran due to its non-compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA). Iran has been accused of significantly violating the agreement, including stockpiling highly enriched uranium. The decision was made after intense diplomacy and warnings from European leaders and the US. Iranian officials have responded negatively, calling the move "unjustified and illegal". The UN's nuclear watchdog, the IAEA, has stated that there is still time for Iran to comply and avoid sanctions.

A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan near the city of Jalalabad on Sunday, killing over 800 people and injuring around 2,500. The quake destroyed villages in the provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue operations continue. The disaster has further strained the resources of Afghanistan, which is already grappling with humanitarian crises. The Taliban government's chief spokesman announced the latest toll figures at a press conference in Kabul.

A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Sunday, killing over 800 people and injuring at least 2,800 others. The quake destroyed several villages in the rugged northeastern province of Kunar, near the Pakistan border. Rescuers are working to reach affected areas, but the remote and mountainous terrain is making it difficult. The disaster has added to the country's 'perfect storm of problems', with Afghanistan already suffering from poverty, conflict, and drought. The international community is being urged to provide aid, but the Taliban's policies towards women are complicating efforts.

The Israeli military has intensified its offensive in Gaza City, resulting in at least 43 Palestinian deaths since Saturday. The operation follows weeks of attacks on the outskirts of the city and the Jabaliya refugee camp. Witnesses report Israeli troops shooting at crowds in the Netzarim Corridor, a military zone cutting Gaza in half, where civilians seeking aid have been killed. The UN has reported that over 90% of Gaza's 2.1 million Palestinians have been displaced at least once since the start of the war in October 2023. The Gaza health ministry states that 63,371 Palestinians have died since the war began, including 124 children who have died from malnutrition-related causes. Meanwhile, Greta Thunberg has embarked on a second aid flotilla to Gaza, aiming to bring symbolic aid and help open a humanitarian corridor.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's four-day visit to China is seen as a demonstration of the close relationship between Moscow and Beijing, despite US attempts to weaken their ties and end the war in Ukraine. The visit includes a security summit, bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and a military parade. The trip is also seen as a show of solidarity amid Western sanctions, with Putin seeking to strengthen economic ties and secure commitments from Russia's economic partners. However, bilateral trade between Russia and China has started to decline, and the Russian economy is showing signs of recession.

The article shares the daily struggles of Tasneem al Iwini, a 24-year-old living in Gaza under Israeli siege. Through a series of audio diary entries, Tasneem describes the difficulties of accessing food, the constant presence of drones, and the psychological toll of living in a war zone. The article highlights the dire conditions in Gaza, including the high cost of food, the scarcity of basic necessities, and the impact of the conflict on civilians, particularly children.

The Russia-Ukraine war has significantly reshaped global trade and forged new alliances. The invasion led to a sharp divergence in economic strategies worldwide, with some countries doubling down on their economic relationship with Russia, while others have forsworn Russian business. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a grouping of 10 Eurasian states, has gained importance, with China, Russia, and India being key members. The war has also led to a decline in Asian nations' dependence on the American financial infrastructure, with Russia selling oil without denominating it in dollars. China and India, once sworn rivals, are edging closer to an economic rapprochement, which could have significant implications for geopolitics in future decades.

The article examines President Trump's policies for American workers seven months into his second term. Trump promised to lift up American workers and promote blue-collar jobs during his campaign, but labor leaders disagree, citing the administration's hostile policies towards workers. The article highlights the impact of Trump's immigration policies on workers and employers, the uncertainty surrounding big infrastructure projects, and the upheaval in the federal workforce. Labor leaders express concerns about the administration's actions, which they say are contrary to Trump's campaign promises.

This back-to-school season, more US states than ever are implementing cell phone bans in schools. Proponents argue that the restrictions help students focus in class and reduce anxiety. While there's bipartisan support for the bans, implementation can be uneven, and some students and parents are resistant to the change. Schools are using methods like locked pouches to enforce the bans, which come with significant costs.

The article profiles Marcus Brown, the artist behind Nourished by Time, discussing his journey to indie stardom with his second album 'The Passionate Ones.' Brown, a Baltimore native, has been working on his music for years while holding various day jobs. The album explores themes of class, labor, and creativity, reflecting Brown's personal experiences and political awakening. Brown's move to New York City and his signing with XL Recordings mark a significant step in his career, as he aims to reconceptualize work and creativity.

The article discusses how President Trump is decimating federal employee unions by ending collective bargaining rights for over one million federal workers. The move has been met with lawsuits from unions, alleging that Trump is retaliating against them for opposing parts of his agenda. The article highlights the impact on various federal agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, and features interviews with union representatives who express concerns about the loss of protections and the potential for a brain drain in the federal workforce.

Army football player Larry Pickett Jr. saves a driver from a burning car in upstate New York. Pickett Jr., a 20-year-old sophomore safety, was returning from dinner with his family when they witnessed a car crash on Route 9W in Fort Montgomery. He sprang into action, pulling the driver to safety just before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The incident was captured on video by his father, Larry Pickett Sr., who praised his son's bravery. The driver was believed to have non-serious injuries. West Point recognized Pickett Jr.'s 'heroic actions' as embodying the Army Values and Warrior Ethos. Pickett Jr. has a history of helping others, having chased a shoplifter in Raleigh and volunteering at the Marbles Kids Museum.

Country singer Bryan Martin was removed from the stage during a concert in upstate New York due to intoxication and erratic behavior. The Rensselaer County Sheriff's Office stated that deputies and event staff attempted to assist Martin offstage, but he became resistant and had to be forcibly escorted out. After the incident, Martin apologized to fans on social media, revealing that he has been struggling with mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. He expressed his intention to focus on his health and lean on his faith. The sheriff's office responded with compassion, acknowledging that addiction is a disease that requires both accountability and empathy.

The article discusses the reaction of Democrats to President Trump's crime crackdown in Washington, D.C., which has led to a significant decrease in crime rates. The author argues that Democrats are out of touch with their voters on this issue, as most Americans consider crime a major problem. The article highlights the success of Trump's crackdown, with violent crime down 30-40% since the deployment of National Guard troops. It also criticizes Democrats for their opposition to Trump's efforts, citing their history of defunding police and promoting soft-on-crime policies. The author suggests that Trump's approach will be a winning issue for Republicans in the midterms.

Jason Ader, a hedge fund boss, has thrown his investment fund, 26 Capital Acquisition Corp, into Chapter 11 bankruptcy after a failed $2.5 billion takeover of a casino in the Philippines. Ader is also being sued by his mother, Pamela Ader, over unpaid bills and a $13 million mortgage linked to his late father's Upper East Side townhouse. Furthermore, American Express is suing Ader to recover $370,000 in unpaid credit card balances, which he allegedly used to fund his lavish lifestyle. Ader claims he is unaware of the lawsuit and that it is a 'routine commercial matter.' A US bankruptcy judge has stripped Ader of control over the bankruptcy process, appointing a US Trustee administrator to settle his debts.

A disturbing viral video shows a group of women beating up a Walmart employee in Indianapolis. The employee, Tikerra Hicks, was ambushed by the mob after coming out of the bathroom. The attack was allegedly related to a rape investigation in which Hicks' friend was accused, but Hicks claimed she was not involved. The video shows multiple women attacking Hicks, with some witnesses and coworkers trying to intervene. Hicks was later suspended by Walmart.

Actress Robin Wright has revealed that she has moved to England, calling her trans-Atlantic relocation 'liberating.' She cited the fast-paced and competitive lifestyle in America as a reason for her departure, stating that 'America is a s--tshow.' Wright, who is currently renting a home on the English seaside with her boyfriend, architect Henry Smith, expressed her love for the quiet and kindness of the English people. She also reflected on her past marriages, including her 14-year marriage to Sean Penn, and her regrets as a mother, admitting that she 'wasn't hard enough' on their children.

Rosie O'Donnell apologized for falsely claiming that the transgender Minneapolis Catholic school shooter, Robin Westman, was a MAGA supporter. O'Donnell made the claim in a TikTok rant, but later admitted she was wrong after it was revealed that Westman had scribbled 'Kill Donald Trump' on one of his gun magazines. Westman, a 23-year-old trans woman, killed two children and injured 18 parishioners during a back-to-school Mass at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. O'Donnell has been a fierce Trump critic and has been living in Ireland since Trump's election win.

Prostate cancer is a common cancer in US men, with one in six men being diagnosed and about 3% dying from it. Early-stage prostate cancer often has no warning signs, making screening crucial. NYU Langone urologist Dr. Herbert Lepor discusses updates to screening guidelines, advances in treatment, and prevention methods. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, age, and being African-American. Screening involves a simple blood test measuring prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Treatment options include monitoring, surgery, radiation therapy, and focal therapy, which involves freezing the cancerous area. A vegan diet may help prevent prostate cancer.

The article discusses the case of Orville Etoria, a Jamaican citizen who was convicted of murder in the US and served a 25-year prison sentence. After his release in 2021, he was allowed to stay in the US with annual check-ins, but was later deported to a prison in Eswatini, a southern African nation, as part of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. Etoria's case highlights the tension between the administration's deportation agenda and the concerns of legal experts, who argue that sending immigrants to countries where they have no ties or citizenship is unjustified and puts them at risk. The article also reveals that Eswatini had requested a large sum of money from the US in exchange for accepting third-country deportees, and that Jamaican officials claim they were willing to take Etoria back.

The article discusses Gregory Johnson's 1984 flag-burning protest at the Republican National Convention, which led to a landmark Supreme Court case, Texas v. Johnson, in 1989. The court ruled 5-4 that flag burning was a form of protected speech under the First Amendment. Johnson, now 68, reflects on the case and expresses concern that President Trump's recent executive order may undermine this ruling. Trump's order encourages prosecution of flag burning and deportation of non-citizens who burn the flag. Johnson sees this as a threat to free speech and a move towards 'coerced patriotism.' The article also highlights the views of Justices Scalia and Kennedy, who voted in Johnson's favor, and Justice Stevens, who dissented.

Bad Bunny's three-month concert residency in San Juan, Puerto Rico is boosting the island's economy during the typically slow Atlantic hurricane season. The residency is expected to draw 600,000 attendees and have a direct economic impact of $250 million. Local businesses are leveraging the event as a marketing opportunity, and tourism is benefiting from the increased activity. The residency has also prompted Moody's Analytics to raise its 2025 economic forecast for Puerto Rico.

A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on Sunday night, killing over 800 people and injuring 2,500. The epicenter was near Jalalabad, but most destruction occurred in Kunar Province. Rescue efforts were hindered by steep terrain and landslides. The Taliban government has appealed for international aid, with several countries committing support. The earthquake has exacerbated Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis, with over half of the population in need of aid.

The article discusses how President Trump's 50% tariffs on Indian goods have undermined India's efforts to become an alternative manufacturing hub to China. Indian businesses and officials are reeling from the impact, with many feeling betrayed and struggling to adapt. The tariffs have made India less attractive to American importers, who can opt for other countries with lower tariffs. As a result, India is being forced to reconsider its relationship with China, despite strained political ties. The article highlights the complexities of the India-China relationship and the challenges India faces in navigating its economic and security interests.

The Israeli government's new negotiating stance, which demands a comprehensive deal to end the Gaza war, is likely to prolong the conflict, according to experts. Despite Hamas's recent acceptance of a phased deal, Israel has switched gears and now insists on a comprehensive agreement that would free all hostages and end the war. The Israeli military is also preparing to call up tens of thousands of reserve soldiers to advance into Gaza City. Experts, including Thomas R. Nides, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel, are skeptical that Israel can achieve its goal of decisively defeating Hamas. The Trump administration appears to be backing Israel's war plan, despite previously pushing for a phased deal. A comprehensive deal is considered much more complicated to achieve, and experts warn that it may lead to further stalling and prolonging of the war.

Robert Mueller, the former special counsel who investigated ties between President Trump's campaign and Russia, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease four years ago. His family announced this on Sunday, stating that he was diagnosed in the summer of 2021. Mueller has had difficulty speaking and experienced mobility issues in recent months, leading a congressional committee to withdraw a request for him to testify about the government's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigations. The committee, led by Representative James R. Comer, had sought to question Mueller about the F.B.I.'s handling of the Epstein investigation during his tenure as director from 2001 to 2013. Mueller's diagnosis and health issues have raised questions about his ability to testify, and his family has asked that his privacy be respected. The article also discusses Mueller's role in the Russia investigation and his report, which found a concerted effort by Russia to interfere in the 2016 election.

Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani was involved in a car accident in New Hampshire on Saturday, September 1, 2025. Giuliani, 81, was riding in a Ford Bronco that was rear-ended by a Honda HR-V on Interstate 93. The accident left Giuliani with a fractured vertebra and other injuries, but he is expected to make a full recovery. The police are investigating the crash, and no charges have been filed. Giuliani's head of security claimed that the Bronco had been stopped to assist a domestic violence victim before the accident.

Mexican cartels are adopting modern warfare tactics, using drones, improvised explosive devices (I.E.D.s), and military-grade weapons in their battles against the government and rival groups. The cartels have acquired advanced weaponry, including Claymore land mines, rocket-propelled grenades, and armored trucks, often smuggled from the United States. The violence has resulted in significant displacement and civilian casualties, with over 2,000 people displaced in Michoacán alone. The Mexican government and security analysts warn that the cartels are becoming increasingly militarized, posing a significant threat to regional stability.

The leaders of China, Russia, and India gathered at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, China, displaying a show of unity and friendship. The meeting was seen as a challenge to the United States and an attempt to promote a multipolar world order. The three leaders, Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Narendra Modi, exchanged warm gestures, including hand-holding and sharing a car ride. However, analysts noted that the display of unity masked deep-seated suspicions and conflicting interests among the three nations. The summit was part of a diplomatic showcase by China, which is seeking to promote its influence and challenge the post-World War II global order dominated by the United States.

India's economy grew by 7.8% in the April-June quarter, contradicting US President Donald Trump's claim that it was 'dead'. While leaders hailed this growth, experts warned that Trump's recent tariffs on Indian imports could negatively impact the economy later in the year. The tariffs were imposed as a penalty for India's purchase of sanctioned Russian oil, straining bilateral ties.

The article discusses the factors influencing the voting decisions of young Americans in the 2024 US presidential election. Young voters are disillusioned with the current state of the economy and are looking for a leader who can bring about meaningful change. The article highlights the differences between the two main candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, and their appeal to young voters. It also notes that young voters are more fired up than in the past, especially after President Biden stepped aside to make way for Ms Harris. The article provides insights into the views of young voters, including their concerns about the economy, education, and home ownership.

The article discusses the proliferation of AI-generated videos featuring bikini-clad women conducting street interviews, which are often used to elicit lewd comments and perpetuate sexist content. These videos, created using AI tools like Google's Veo 3 AI generator, are flooding social media platforms and blurring the line between reality and fiction. Experts warn that this trend is fuelling sexism and contributing to the erosion of trust in visual content. The article highlights the potential harm caused by such synthetic content and the challenges faced by platforms in moderating it.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has scrapped lawmakers' perks, including a $3,000 housing allowance, in a bid to calm tensions following deadly protests that have gripped the country for a week. The protests were sparked by anger over the pay and privileges given to lawmakers, and escalated after a motorcycle taxi driver was killed by a police vehicle. The government has stepped up security measures, with police setting up checkpoints across Jakarta and patrolling the city. Student groups and civil society organizations have called off protests, citing fears of a crackdown by authorities. Prabowo has promised an investigation into the driver's death and pledged to help his family. The death toll from the riots has risen to six, with multiple cities affected across Indonesia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping criticized 'bullying behavior' by other countries at the Shanghai Cooperation Summit in Tianjin, while Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed the West for the Ukraine war. The summit, attended by leaders from Eurasian member states, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to challenge Western-led multilateral blocs. Xi urged attendees to oppose 'cold war mentality' and 'bloc confrontation,' and praised the growth of the SCO as a new model of 'true multilateralism.' Putin claimed the Ukraine war was 'provoked by the West' and praised China's efforts to resolve the crisis. The summit is part of Beijing's push to challenge US dominance and is being closely watched for any formal meeting between Putin, Xi, and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.