Global Tensions Rise as Leaders Clash on Security and Trade

The UK and its allies are ready to support Ukraine before and after a peace deal is reached, according to UK Defence Secretary John Healey. Russia's President Vladimir Putin has made defiant statements, but Healey believes Russia is under pressure. The US and its allies are considering providing security guarantees for Ukraine, including deploying European troops. Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian cities, killing civilians and causing destruction. Ukrainians are frustrated with the lack of progress towards peace and are angry with US President Donald Trump's warm welcome to Putin.

Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted a grand military parade in Beijing's Tiananmen Square to commemorate China's 80-year-old victory over Japan, showcasing the country's military strength and defying the US-led world order. The event was attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, sending a strong message to the US and its allies. Xi used the occasion to assert China's growing global influence and challenge the existing world order. The parade featured advanced military hardware, including nuclear-capable missiles and hypersonic anti-ship missiles, demonstrating China's rapidly modernizing military capabilities. The event was seen as a display of China's power and a warning to Taiwan, which China considers a breakaway province. The parade also highlighted China's growing nationalism and its efforts to distract from domestic challenges such as a sluggish economy and high youth unemployment.

Victims of Jeffrey Epstein held a news conference on the steps of the US Capitol, detailing their experiences of sexual abuse and calling for lawmakers to release more files about the convicted sex offender. The group, including Lisa Phillips, Marina Lacerda, Liz Stein, and Annie Farmer, shared emotional accounts of their abuse and announced that they are compiling a confidential list of Epstein's associates who they say were involved in the abuse. The event was organized by US lawmakers who are pushing for the release of more documents from the Epstein investigation. The Department of Justice has released 33,000 pages of documents, but most were already in the public domain. Lawmakers are divided on the issue, with some calling for the release of all documents and others opposing it due to concerns about exposing the identities of innocent people.

A painting by Italian artist Giuseppe Ghislandi, looted by Nazis during World War II, has been recovered in Argentina. The painting, 'Portrait of a Lady', was spotted on an estate agent's website hanging in a house that belonged to the daughter of a Nazi fugitive. The painting was part of the collection of Amsterdam art dealer Jacques Goudstikker, which was forcibly sold by the Nazis after his death. The current owners, Patricia Kadgien and her husband, claim they inherited the artwork, but are being questioned for obstructing the investigation. The painting has been returned to the authorities and its value is estimated to be around $50,000.

A US federal judge has ruled that Google will not have to sell its Chrome web browser but must share information with competitors and stop using exclusive contracts. The decision comes after a years-long court battle over Google's dominance in online search. Google had argued that its market dominance is due to its superior product and consumer preference. The company will also not have to sell off its Android operating system. The ruling is seen as a victory for Google, with shares in Alphabet, its parent company, jumping by more than 8%. However, Google competitor DuckDuckGo said the order failed to address Google's illegal behaviour.

Guyanese President Irfaan Ali has claimed victory in the general election, with his People's Progressive Party (PPP) securing at least 242,000 votes and majorities in eight of the 10 districts. The election was centered on managing revenues from massive oil reserves discovered in 2019. Ali campaigned on using the oil reserves to improve infrastructure and reduce poverty while navigating tensions with Venezuela over the oil-rich Essequibo region. The PPP is expected to have a bigger majority in the 65-member parliament than in the previous election. Opposition parties alleged voting irregularities and unfair distribution of oil earnings, but observers from the Organization of American States have not reported any instances of electoral fraud.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin were overheard discussing organ transplants and the possibility of living up to 150 years or achieving immortality during a livestreamed event in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. The conversation, caught on a hot mic, took place as the two leaders walked with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Xi and Putin have been in power for 13 and 25 years, respectively, and have not expressed any intention of stepping down. The discussion reflects their interest in biotechnology and its potential to prolong human life. The event was part of China's 80th-anniversary celebration of the end of World War II, showcasing China's military strength and positioning itself as a global leader.

The article discusses how the war in Ukraine is affecting the city of Vladivostok in Russia's far east, over 4,000 miles away from the conflict. The city is home to a Para ice hockey team, Soyuz, whose players, including 30-year-old Dmitry Afanasyev, lost limbs fighting in Ukraine. The article explores the impact of the war on the local population, with some expressing worry and a desire for the war to end, while others are more supportive of President Putin and the Russian government. The city is preparing for Putin's visit and participation in the Eastern Economic Forum, with a large mural depicting Putin hugging a Siberian tiger.

Jasveen Sangha, known as the "Ketamine Queen," has pleaded guilty to selling ketamine that led to the death of actor Matthew Perry. Sangha, 42, pleaded guilty to five charges, including distributing ketamine resulting in death or bodily injury. Perry died in October 2023 from acute ketamine effects. Sangha is one of five individuals accused of supplying ketamine to Perry, exploiting his addiction for profit. She faces up to 65 years in federal prison. The case has shed light on Hollywood's ketamine drug network.

The Terra Nova, Captain Scott's famous polar ship, has been filmed on the sea floor for the first time. The shipwreck lies 170m down off the coast of Greenland and was discovered in 2012. The new footage shows the ship colonized with sea life, with key features like its wheel, winch, and mast still visible. The Terra Nova played a crucial role in Scott's doomed expedition to the South Pole in 1912. After the expedition, the ship continued in service until it sank in 1943 while carrying supplies during World War II. The footage provides a new perspective on the ship's history and its tragic tale.

US President Donald Trump announced that the US military conducted a strike on a drug-carrying vessel from Venezuela in the southern Caribbean, killing 11 'narcoterrorists'. The operation targeted members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Trump claimed the vessel was in international waters and was transporting illegal narcotics bound for the US. Venezuela's government reacted angrily, with President Nicolás Maduro vowing to fight any attempted US military intervention. The strike is part of the Trump administration's efforts to pressure Maduro's government, including a $50m reward for information leading to his arrest on drug-trafficking charges.

The UAE has warned Israel that annexing the occupied West Bank would be a 'red line' and undermine the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between the two countries. The warning came after Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich unveiled a proposal to annex approximately four-fifths of the West Bank. The Palestinian Authority welcomed the UAE's position, while the Israeli government has not commented. The annexation plans are opposed by many international human rights groups, who have characterized Israel's actions in the West Bank as apartheid. The UAE's assistant minister for political affairs, Lana Nusseibeh, stated that annexation would 'severely undermine the vision and spirit of the Accords' and end the pursuit of regional integration.

The article reports on the escalating violence in Gaza as Israel continues its military offensive, resulting in at least 287 deaths in three days. The International Association of Genocide Scholars has accused Israel of committing genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in Gaza. The Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health reports a total death toll of at least 63,746 and 161,245 wounded since October 7, 2023. Israel has rejected the accusations, claiming they are based on a false Hamas narrative. The UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities reports that at least 21,000 Gazan children have been disabled by Israeli assaults. Residents of Gaza City are on edge as Israeli forces advance, with many fearing they will be forced to leave their homes permanently.

The US Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, has warned that 'narco-terrorists' will face the same fate as those killed in a recent US military strike on a drug-carrying boat off the coast of Venezuela. The strike, which was carried out on Tuesday, resulted in the deaths of 11 people, according to President Donald Trump. The boat was allegedly carrying drugs and was linked to the Tren de Aragua organized crime group, which has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the Trump administration. Hegseth said that the US will continue to target those involved in drug trafficking in the region and that further strikes may be forthcoming. The US has accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's government of working with drug cartels and has offered a $50 million reward for his arrest.

Argentine police are investigating the daughter and son-in-law of a deceased Nazi official after a 17th-century painting stolen from a Dutch Jewish art collector during World War II was spotted in a real estate ad. The painting, believed to be 'Portrait of a Lady' by Italian artist Giuseppe Ghislandi, was seen in a property for sale in Mar del Plata, Argentina. The owners, Friedrich Kadgien's daughter and son-in-law, claim they inherited the artwork and are its rightful owners. However, authorities have placed them under house arrest and are searching for the painting.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended China's military parade commemorating 80 years since the end of WWII in Asia, accompanied by his young daughter Kim Ju Ae, believed to be 12 or 13 years old. This was her first known trip outside the country and has sparked speculation that she may be considered as a potential successor to her father. Experts suggest that Kim Jong Un's decision to bring Kim Ju Ae to China may be a signal of his succession plans, following a tradition set by his father and grandfather. However, challenges arise due to Kim Ju Ae's age, gender, and lack of military experience in a patriarchal society. Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un's visit to Beijing was seen as a significant political win, showcasing unity with China and Russia against the West.

An 18th-century Italian painting, 'Portrait of a Lady' by Giuseppe Ghislandi, looted by Nazis during WWII, has been recovered in Argentina. The painting was rediscovered after appearing in an online real estate listing posted by the daughter of Friedrich Kadgien, a Nazi officer accused of stealing it. Dutch journalists investigating Kadgien's past in Argentina led to the discovery. The painting's original owner was Dutch-Jewish art collector Jacques Goudstikker, whose heirs have been seeking to recover their family's lost art collection. The painting is valued at $50,000 and has been seized by Argentine authorities.

The remains of U.S. Navy Reserve Seaman 2nd Class Jerome M. Mullaney, who was killed during World War II when the USS Glennon struck an underwater mine off the coast of France, have been identified 80 years later through DNA analysis and other research. Mullaney, 18, was one of 25 sailors recorded as missing after the ship sank on June 10, 1944. His remains were initially interred in a Belgian cemetery under the designation X-9296, but were exhumed in 2022 and identified through advanced forensic techniques. Mullaney will be reburied in his hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania, bringing closure to his family.

Former US President Donald Trump remains committed to pursuing a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, despite ongoing conflict and uncertainty over potential talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump expressed optimism that a deal can be reached, stating 'something is going to happen' but acknowledged that the parties are 'not ready yet.' He emphasized his approach to diplomacy involves bringing leaders together to broker agreements in real-time, citing past successes in other conflicts. Trump also addressed his claim of having ended several wars during his presidency and his potential eligibility for the Nobel Peace Prize.

The article examines President Trump's claim of ending six or seven wars during his presidency, with a focus on the conflicts he is referencing and the extent of his involvement. The conflicts include ceasefires between Israel and Iran, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Armenia and Azerbaijan, Thailand and Cambodia, India and Pakistan, and a dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia. Experts say that while Trump deserves some credit for brokering ceasefires, many of these conflicts are not fully resolved and some were not full-scale wars to begin with. The article also notes that the Trump administration's claims of success are often overstated and that the long-term impact of these efforts remains to be seen.

The U.S. military conducted a strike on a drug-carrying boat from Venezuela, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The strike, which was announced by President Trump, resulted in the deaths of 11 people and targeted members of Tren de Aragua, a Venezuela-based organized crime group designated as a foreign terrorist organization. The boat was operating in the southern Caribbean Sea and was allegedly carrying drugs. The strike is part of the Trump administration's efforts to combat drug trafficking and follows the deployment of three U.S. warships to the waters off Venezuela last month. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has denied allegations of working with drug cartels and has vowed to defend against any possible U.S. attack.

China held a massive military parade on September 3, 2025, showcasing its latest military hardware, including drones, AI-powered systems, laser weapons, and nuclear-capable missiles. The parade was attended by 20 heads of state, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The event was seen as a display of anti-U.S. unity and a demonstration of China's growing military capabilities. The parade featured a range of new and advanced military systems, including the LY-1 laser weapon, the AJX002 giant submarine drone, and the DF-5C nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile. Defense analysts noted that China's military modernization is focused on integrating AI and other advanced technologies into its military systems. While the U.S. still maintains an operational edge, China's growing military capabilities are a cause for concern.

Asia-Pacific markets mostly rose on Thursday following a tech rally overnight on Wall Street. Japan's Nikkei 225 rose 1.56% as domestic tech stocks gained, while Australia's S&P/ASX 200 benchmark climbed 0.96% after the country's household spending in July rose 0.5% month on month. Global bond markets remained under pressure, with long-dated borrowing costs around the world continuing to be in focus. The U.S. 30-year Treasury yield nudged above 5% on Wednesday morning, and Japan's 30-year bond yield was at a record high. India's benchmark Nifty 50 rose 0.41%, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng index fell 1.21% and mainland China's CSI 300 retreated 2.47% in volatile trading.

A fund manager, James Carter, sees a 'generational opportunity' in the UK's gilt market due to high yields and attractive term premiums. The UK 30-year yield has hit its highest level since 1998, and Carter believes that the current situation presents a buying opportunity for investors. He notes that the government's emphasis on fiscal rules and a potential slowdown in quantitative tightening by the Bank of England could support the market. Carter is more optimistic about the UK gilt market compared to other markets such as Japan, the US, and the euro zone.

France is facing a political crisis as Prime Minister Francois Bayrou's minority government is likely to lose a confidence vote, leading to another government collapse. This has drawn comparisons to Italy, which experienced similar turmoil in the past but has since stabilized under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. France's economic woes, including a high debt-to-GDP ratio and large budget deficit, are exacerbating the situation. Economists are warning that France's fiscal outlook is worse than Italy's, and the country's inability to pass a budget is causing concern among financial markets.

Nasdaq has proposed a new rule requiring Chinese companies listing on the exchange to pay at least $25 million from their public offering. This move is seen as making it harder for small Chinese companies to list in New York, amid rising tensions between the U.S. and China. The change comes after a surge in tiny Chinese IPOs on Nasdaq, with 35 listings in 2024, and concerns over 'pump and dump' schemes. The rule change is expected to instill more confidence in the legitimacy of listings and protect companies from potential manipulation. The proposal needs SEC approval and would apply to subsequent listings after a 30-day grace period for companies already in the IPO process.

The article provides live updates on the stock market, with U.S. stock futures little changed on Wednesday night. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite gained on the day, driven by Alphabet's rally, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped. The labor market is showing signs of weakness, with job openings falling to low levels. Economists expect the ADP private payrolls report to show a softer print on Thursday. The article also discusses the potential impact of tariffs on the market and historical trends for the S&P 500 in the remainder of the year.

President Donald Trump has asked the Supreme Court to quickly accept and rule on his appeal to overturn lower-court rulings that found most of his tariffs on imports were not legal. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit had ruled that Trump overstepped his presidential authority when he implemented the steep levies, throwing a central pillar of his trade agenda into doubt. Trump's request to the Supreme Court comes five days after the appeals court decision and asks for a hearing in early November with a final decision soon after. The tariffs were imposed using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, but the appeals court said that 'tariffs are a core Congressional power,' not a presidential authority. Trump's Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, argued that the appeals court ruling 'gravely undermines the President's ability to conduct real-world diplomacy and his ability to protect the national security and economy of the United States.' The plaintiffs who successfully sued to block the tariffs are confident that their legal arguments will ultimately prevail, stating that the unlawful tariffs are inflicting serious harm on small businesses.

The article discusses the growing influence of Israeli settlers and their plans to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip. The settlers, emboldened by Israel's war in Gaza, are using tactics such as violence and intimidation to push Palestinians off their land. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, is accused of tacitly supporting the settlers' actions. The article argues that the settlers' agenda is advancing in both Gaza and the West Bank, with the goal of establishing permanent Israeli control and displacing Palestinians. The international community's response, including potential recognition of Palestinian statehood, may not be enough to stop the settlers' plans.

The article discusses Russian President Vladimir Putin's attendance at China's military parade and SCO summit, highlighting the strengthening ties between Russia, China, and other nations opposed to Western dominance. Putin's presence at the events, alongside leaders like Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un, demonstrates Russia's continued ability to sustain its war effort in Ukraine despite Western sanctions. The article analyzes the implications of this gathering for European security and the global order, noting that the event showcased the growing alignment between Russia, China, and other nations seeking to challenge US influence.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot visited Greenland and condemned the 'brutalization' of the world by 'major powers,' apparently referring to President Donald Trump's ambitions in the Arctic. Barrot emphasized that Greenland is 'not for sale' and reaffirmed France's solidarity with Greenland and Denmark. The visit comes amid reports of covert U.S. influence operations in Greenland and Trump's refusal to rule out military intervention to 'acquire' the territory. France and Europe are determined to respect Greenland's territorial integrity, and Barrot announced plans to finalize a critical minerals deal with Greenland in the fall.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Moscow for peace talks, according to Russian state-owned news outlet Tass. Putin made the claim while meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in China. Zelenskyy's office and the White House have not immediately responded to the invitation. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha accused Putin of issuing 'knowingly unacceptable proposals' and stated that seven nations, including Austria and Turkey, have offered to host peace talks. Former CIA Moscow Station Chief Dan Hoffman expressed concerns that Putin's invitation is a ploy to make it appear as if he is willing to negotiate in good faith and drive a wedge between Zelenskyy and the US and Europe. US President Donald Trump has been ambiguous in his response to Putin's actions, stating that he will be speaking with Putin 'very shortly' and that 'there will be consequences' if a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy is not announced soon.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping were caught on a hot mic discussing the possibility of living up to 150 years through organ transplants and biotechnology. A top U.S. transplant specialist dismissed their claims as unfounded, stating that there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that organ transplants can promote immortality or extend human lifespan to 150 years. The conversation took place during a military parade in Beijing, where Putin and Xi were in attendance alongside North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has vowed to continue striking narco-terrorist organizations, following a recent military operation off the coast of Venezuela that targeted a vessel operated by the Tren de Aragua cartel. The strike, authorized by President Donald Trump, resulted in the deaths of 11 cartel members and marked a shift from the previous policy of seizing and apprehending international gang networks. Rubio defended the action, stating that narco-terrorist organizations pose a significant threat to US national security and that the new approach will involve taking out these groups rather than just seizing their cargo. The US is increasingly concerned about the cartels' access to unconventional weaponry, including drones, and their threat to international security.

A Palestinian family in the West Bank is facing harassment from young Israeli settlers, who regularly visit their makeshift camp, intimidate them, and threaten to set fire to their homes. The family, who had their home demolished by the Israeli military and had their car stolen, is determined to stay on their land despite the constant harassment. The situation in the West Bank is deteriorating, with Israeli settlements expanding and the Israeli government lending them more support and legitimacy. The far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, has declared that Israel should annex more than 82% of the West Bank, citing biblical and historical rights.

The partial release of 33,000 pages of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein's case by the US House committee has sparked outrage among Epstein's victims and Democrats, who claim that 97% of the released documents were already public and that the release represents less than 1% of all Epstein files. The victims and their supporters believe that the partial release is a strategy to protect the guilty and that the whole truth is being covered up. The release includes previously known material such as Ghislaine Maxwell's interview and videos from Epstein's home and jail cell. Epstein's victims plan to hold a news conference on Capitol Hill to express their anger and demand justice. The controversy has also drawn in Republicans and Democrats, who are backing a petition to force the full disclosure of Epstein's files, which could have implications for Donald Trump.

Chinese President Xi Jinping presented a vision of China's future centered on its growing power during a massive military parade in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. The event, marking 80 years since Japan's surrender in World War II, showcased China's military might and was attended by key allies, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The parade was a display of China's internal strength and its projection of power internationally, highlighting its modernized military and allegiances. Xi's vision is likely to appeal to those disillusioned with America, but not everyone will be convinced. The event was tightly controlled, with extensive security measures in place for foreign media.

The article discusses the potential consequences of New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's plan to scrap the NYPD's gang database if he becomes mayor. The author argues that the database is a crucial tool in fighting crime and that its elimination would disproportionately harm minority communities, who are most affected by gang violence. The article highlights the NYPD's recent successes in reducing crime, attributing these achievements to the gang database. The author criticizes Mamdani's stance on the database, as well as his other proposed crime policies, such as eliminating the NYPD's Strategic Response Group and shifting resources to a new Department of Community Safety.

The article reports that Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers have been reassigned to provide security for former Vice President Kamala Harris after President Trump withdrew her Secret Service protection. As many as 14 LAPD's elite Metro Division officers have been pulled from working cases and crime suppression efforts to guard Harris. The decision to strip Harris of her Secret Service detail was made by Trump, despite former President Joe Biden extending her protection for a full year before leaving office. Local leaders, including Democratic LA Mayor Karen Bass, have slammed Trump's decision, calling it an act of revenge and a threat to Harris's safety. The California Highway Patrol is also expected to provide protection for Harris.

A Pennsylvania couple, James Russell Kahl and Carly Kahl, have been arrested after their five children were found locked in a deplorable 'dungeon' in their Redstone Township home. The children, aged between 5 and 14, were discovered in a feces-covered room with boarded-up windows, no beds, and little clothing or food. The parents allegedly had a live feed of the room and had installed cameras and three deadbolt locks on the outside of the door. James Kahl reportedly locked the children in the room for part of the day and all night, and allegedly neglected and abused them. The couple has been charged with endangering the welfare of children, aggravated assault, reckless endangerment, and drug possession, and have been ordered to be held in jail without bail.

The article discusses how Democrats and Trump critics have been spreading false rumors about President Trump's death and questioning his health, despite evidence of his active schedule and public appearances. The author argues that this is a desperate attempt to undermine Trump's presidency and that it fosters a climate of violence and death threats against him. The article also draws parallels between the treatment of Trump and that of former President Biden, highlighting the perceived hypocrisy of Democrats who ignored Biden's infirmities while scrutinizing Trump's health.

The article discusses China's recent military parade, which showcased its growing military capabilities, including hypersonic missiles and intercontinental ballistic missiles. The author argues that China's military buildup poses a significant threat to the United States and its allies, and that the US must respond by increasing its defense spending, strengthening its alliances, and countering China's information warfare efforts. The author also highlights the growing cooperation between China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, and suggests that the US should work to strengthen its relationships with partners such as India to counter this threat.

European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, are set to meet in Paris to discuss plans to secure a post-war Ukraine. The meeting aims to show a united front and demonstrate Europe's commitment to Ukraine's security, potentially influencing US President Donald Trump's stance on the conflict. The plans include a 'reassurance force' to be stationed in Ukraine, as well as a strengthened Ukrainian military. However, there are concerns about the level of commitment from European countries and the potential for conflict with Russia.

The article discusses the recent efforts by Jeffrey Epstein's victims to pressure Congress to release all investigative files related to his case. Despite bipartisan support, Republicans have thwarted a bill that would require the Justice Department to release the files. The bill's sponsors, Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, are trying to force a House vote on the measure, but need more Republican support. Meanwhile, House Republicans have passed an alternative measure that allows the House Oversight Committee to continue its investigation into the handling of the Epstein case. Epstein's victims and their lawyers have expressed frustration and disappointment at the lack of progress.

A funicular crash in Lisbon, Portugal, killed at least 15 people and injured 18 others, with five in critical condition. The Elevador da Glória, a historic funicular, derailed and crashed on Wednesday evening due to a loose cable. The cause of the accident is under investigation. Portugal's President declared a national day of mourning for the victims. The funicular is a popular tourist attraction and a major mode of transportation in Lisbon's hilly terrain.

The United States has blocked visas for Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and his staff, preventing them from attending the United Nations General Assembly and a conference on Palestinian statehood recognition. Palestinian leaders are launching a diplomatic effort to reverse the decision, with support from countries like France and Canada. The move is seen as a significant setback for Palestinian efforts to gain international recognition, and comes amid a worsening situation in the West Bank.

The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to allow President Trump to continue imposing tariffs on nations around the world, despite a lower court ruling that invalidated the tariffs. The administration argues that the tariffs are necessary to protect the nation's economy and foreign policy, while opponents claim that the president has exceeded his authority. The case is a major test of Trump's trade policies and his expansion of executive power.

The article discusses the growing frustration between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as well as the strengthening alliance between Russia, China, and North Korea. The leaders of these countries gathered in Beijing for a military parade, which Trump initially praised but later criticized, showing a flash of pique over the alliance. Experts say the gathering was not conspiratorial but rather a display of solidarity among anti-Western powers. Trump's summit with Putin in Alaska yielded no concrete results on the war in Ukraine, and Putin's actions have humiliated Trump, according to experts. The article highlights the complex relationships between these world leaders and the implications of their actions on global politics.

A recent cyberattack by a Chinese group known as Salt Typhoon has been described as China's most ambitious yet, targeting over 80 countries and potentially stealing information from nearly every American. The attack was a yearslong, coordinated assault that infiltrated major telecommunications companies and others, with the goal of giving Chinese officials the capability to track targets' communications and movements worldwide. The attack highlights China's growing cyber capabilities and its ambitions for global influence, with security experts warning of a new era of Chinese cyber threats. The US and its allies have condemned the attack, with officials describing it as 'unrestrained' and 'indiscriminate'.

The article discusses various aspects of the US-China trade war, including tariffs, trade negotiations, and the impact on businesses. It also touches on other topics such as the US Federal Reserve, blockchain, and the US economy. The US President, Donald Trump, is at the center of many of these issues, with his administration's policies and decisions being scrutinized. The article highlights the complexities and challenges of the trade war, as well as its effects on different industries and countries.

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 feel that their parents' American dream is out of reach. The article highlights the differences between the two main candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, and their appeal to young voters. Harris is currently leading in the polls among young voters, with a 23-point lead over Trump among under-30s who are registered to vote. The article also notes that young voters are more fired up than in the past, especially after President Biden stepped aside to make way for Harris.

Japan's top trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, visited the US for ministerial talks after staff-level discussions on the July trade deal made progress. The visit comes after Akazawa abruptly cancelled his trip last week, sparking speculation about remaining differences between the two countries. Japan is keen on the US cutting car tariffs, while the US wants to see a $550 billion investment mechanism operational. Akazawa reiterated Japan's commitment to implementing the trade deal and defended the Ishiba administration amid calls for leadership change within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

The article discusses the persistence of scam hubs in South-east Asia, particularly in Myanmar, despite recent crackdowns. The Shwe Kokko town on the Myanmar-Thailand border, once a notorious scamming hub, has seen a decrease in visible activity due to the cutoff of electricity and internet supply from Thailand. However, observations and reports indicate that scamming operations continue, with crime syndicates using alternative power sources and maintaining their operations. The region has become a breeding ground for transnational criminal networks, with hundreds of thousands of people involved in scam compounds. Experts estimate that these networks generate between $50 billion and $75 billion annually.

Portugal declared a day of national mourning on September 4, 2025, after a funicular train derailed in Lisbon on September 3, killing at least 15 people and injuring 18 others. The accident occurred in one of Lisbon's most popular tourist spots, and the victims included foreigners. The Portuguese government offered condolences, and an investigation into the accident's circumstances was launched. The funicular, known as the Gloria, had been in service since 1885 and was last maintained in 2022 and 2024. The cause of the derailment is under investigation.

The article discusses the ongoing struggle of the last surviving comfort women in Asia, who were forced into providing sexual services to Japanese Imperial Army troops during World War II. Eighty years after the war, these women, now in their 90s, continue to demand closure and justice. The issue remains a contentious topic between South Korea and Japan, with South Korea being the most vocal about seeking redress. The article highlights the dwindling number of survivors, the historical grievances, and the efforts of civic groups to raise awareness and install comfort women statues around the world.

Guyana's President Irfaan Ali has claimed victory in the country's general and regional elections, with his party winning more than 240,000 votes and seven of the country's ten electoral districts. Despite the country's significant oil wealth, poverty remains a major issue, with 58% of Guyanese living in poverty. Ali faces the challenge of turning the oil riches into prosperity for citizens while navigating tensions with Venezuela over a territorial dispute. The election was observed by various international organizations, which commended the peaceful environment but raised concerns about the voters list and implementation of previous recommendations.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his Labour Party (JLP) have secured a third consecutive term in government, winning 34 out of 63 seats in the recent elections. The opposition People's National Party (PNP), led by Mark Golding, conceded defeat, gaining 29 seats. Holness attributed his victory to the country's progress under his leadership, citing improvements in the economy and a significant reduction in crime. The JLP's success was despite concerns raised by the national anti-corruption body about Holness's income and assets declarations. The election saw a low voter turnout of under 40%.

China hosted its largest ever military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, showcasing its military might and diplomatic influence. The event was attended by leaders from authoritarian states and the global south, including Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong-un, in a display of unity against the West. China's President Xi Jinping used the occasion to promote a vision of a multipolar world order, rejecting universal values and emphasizing the importance of state sovereignty. The parade featured advanced military hardware, including tanks, drones, and nuclear-capable missiles. Analysts see the event as a demonstration of China's growing confidence and its desire to reshape the global order in its favor.