18-08-2025

Global Conflicts and Diplomatic Tensions Escalate Worldwide

Date: 18-08-2025
Sources: bbc.com: 10 | cbsnews.com: 4 | cnbc.com: 3 | economist.com: 1 | edition.cnn.com: 6 | foxnews.com: 2 | news.sky.com: 5 | npr.org: 2 | nypost.com: 3 | nytimes.com: 5 | straitstimes.com: 1 | theguardian.com: 1 | washingtonpost.com: 1
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Source: edition.cnn.com

Image content: The image depicts a meeting between former US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior advisor, seated across from them. The three men are engaged in conversation, sitting in ornate chairs around a polished wooden coffee table. The room is decorated with various flags and gold statues on a mantle, creating an atmosphere of formal diplomacy.

Summary

The world is witnessing a surge in global conflicts and diplomatic tensions, with multiple hotspots emerging across different regions. From the ongoing war in Ukraine and the Gaza conflict to protests in Serbia and Israel, and diplomatic meetings between world leaders, the situation remains volatile and complex.

Key Points

  • The war in Ukraine continues with diplomatic efforts to broker peace, including meetings between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.
  • Tensions rise in the Middle East with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and protests in Israel.
  • Global economic concerns are heightened by the impact of tariffs and trade policies, particularly between the US, India, and China.
  • Protests and civil unrest are reported in various countries, including Serbia and Bolivia.

Articles in this Cluster

Bolivia set to elect first non-left wing president in two decades

Bolivia is set to elect its first non-left-wing president in nearly two decades after Sunday's presidential election. Senator Rodrigo Paz Pereira and former president Jorge Quiroga are heading to a run-off in October as neither received a majority vote. Paz Pereira's campaign focused on redistributing funds to regional entities, fighting corruption, and promoting capitalism. The election outcome may lead to changes in Bolivia's foreign policy, potentially strengthening ties with the US and increasing support for foreign investment in lithium reserves. The country's economic crisis, marked by fuel shortages, high inflation, and debt, contributed to the incumbent socialist party's unpopularity. The left-wing party, MAS, is divided, with ex-president Evo Morales still having many supporters despite being barred from running again.
Entities: Rodrigo Paz Pereira, Jorge Quiroga, Bolivia, Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS), Evo MoralesTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Hollywood stuntman set on fire for Pink Floyd cover dies aged 88

Ronnie Rondell Jr, a Hollywood stuntman and actor who was famously set on fire for the front cover of Pink Floyd's Wish You Were Here album, has died at the age of 88. Rondell had a career spanning over 50 years, with dozens of TV and film credits, including Lethal Weapon, Thelma and Louise, and Star Trek: First Contact. He was involved in numerous iconic stunts and worked as a stunt coordinator for films like Batman and Robin. Rondell was one of the founders of Stunts Unlimited and received a lifetime achievement honor at the Taurus World Stunt Awards in 2004.
Entities: Ronnie Rondell Jr, Pink Floyd, Wish You Were Here, Hollywood, MissouriTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Huge crowds gather in Israel calling for hostage deal and end to Gaza war

Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Israel to protest against the ongoing Gaza war and demand a deal to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. The protests, which included a one-day national strike, were met with criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other government officials. The protests came after Israel's war cabinet voted to occupy Gaza City, a move condemned by the UN Security Council. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands of residents fleeing Gaza City's southern Zeitoun neighbourhood due to continuous Israeli bombardment.
Entities: Israel, Gaza, Hamas, Benjamin Netanyahu, Tel AvivTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Hurricane Erin grows in size as it barrels towards Caribbean

Hurricane Erin, currently a category 3 storm, is moving towards the Caribbean and is expected to intensify. It briefly reached category 5 strength on Saturday with winds up to 160mph. The storm is forecast to bring hazards including flash flooding and landslides to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. The US National Hurricane Center expects Erin to turn away from the US mainland and back into the Atlantic. The storm is expected to generate life-threatening surf swells and rip currents along the US east coast, particularly in Florida and the mid-Atlantic states. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an 'above normal' Atlantic hurricane season this year, with an increased number of tropical storms reaching category 4 and 5 due to global warming.
Entities: Hurricane Erin, Caribbean, Bahamian Archipelago, US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Mike BrennanTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Macron vows justice after tree memorial for murdered Jew cut down

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the cutting down of a tree memorial dedicated to Ilan Halimi, a Jew who was tortured and murdered by a Paris gang in 2006. Macron pledged that every effort will be made to track down and punish the person responsible for the act, which he described as 'an attempt to kill him a second time'. The tree was planted 14 years ago in the suburb of Épinay-sur-Seine and was one of several memorials across the French capital for Halimi. Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez confirmed an investigation was underway. The incident has been blamed on 'antisemitic hatred' by Macron and French Prime Minister François Bayrou.
Entities: Emmanuel Macron, Ilan Halimi, Paris, Laurent Nuñez, Épinay-sur-SeineTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Mumbai: Pigeon feeding ban sparks debate in India

A recent court ban on feeding pigeons in public spaces in Mumbai has sparked a heated debate between civic bodies, public health activists, and bird lovers. The ban was imposed due to concerns about health hazards posed by pigeon droppings, which can cause respiratory illnesses. However, many people, including members of the Jain community, have protested the ban, citing cultural and religious reasons. The issue is not unique to Mumbai, as other cities like Venice, Singapore, and New York have also implemented regulations on pigeon feeding. Experts suggest that a balanced approach, such as allowing feeding during set hours, could be a possible solution. The Bombay High Court has set up an expert panel to suggest alternatives, and civic officials are considering controlled, staggered feeding.
Entities: Mumbai, India, Pigeons, Jain community, Syed IsmatTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Serbia ruling party offices set on fire in fifth night of protests

The offices of Serbia's ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) were set on fire during a fifth night of protests against President Aleksandar Vučić's government. The protests, initially triggered by a railway station collapse in Novi Sad, have drawn hundreds of thousands of people and have been largely peaceful until recent clashes with riot police. The government has denied allegations of police brutality, while Russia has pledged to support Vučić, calling the protests a foreign plot. The demonstrations have resulted in injuries and arrests, with concerns raised over the police's use of force.
Entities: Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), Aleksandar Vučić, Serbia, Russia, Novi SadTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Sudan army torturing people to death, says rights group

A Sudanese human rights group, Emergency Lawyers, has accused the country's army and security forces of torturing people to death and operating 'execution chambers' during the ongoing civil war. The group documented hundreds of arrests in the capital Khartoum and reported that some captives were later found dead with evidence of torture. The Sudanese army recaptured Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in March. Both sides have been accused of atrocities, including arbitrary detention, torture, and sexual violence. The war has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, 12 million displaced people, and a severe humanitarian crisis, with famine declared in parts of the country and a cholera outbreak that has claimed nearly 2,500 lives.
Entities: Sudan, Emergency Lawyers, Khartoum, Sudanese army, Rapid Support Forces (RSF)Tone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

What handing Donbas to Putin would mean for Ukraine

The article discusses the potential implications of Ukraine surrendering the Donbas region to Russia as part of a peace deal with President Trump. Ukrainian leaders, including President Zelensky, are under pressure to make concessions to end the conflict, but many Ukrainians are opposed to giving up territory, citing concerns about Russian aggression and the potential for future attacks. The region is rich in minerals and industry, and its loss would be a significant blow to Ukraine's economy and identity. While some Ukrainians are desperate for an end to the suffering caused by the war, others are adamant that surrendering the Donbas would be a betrayal and a tragedy. The article highlights the complexities and challenges of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict, including the need for security guarantees and the uncertainty surrounding the process of surrendering territory.
Entities: Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky, Donbas, UkraineTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

White House talks more important than US-Russia summit in Alaska

The article discusses the upcoming meeting at the White House between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other European leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer and President Macron, to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The meeting is seen as crucial in ensuring that Ukraine is not left out of any potential peace deal between the US and Russia. The article highlights the challenges in reaching a peace deal, including the issue of Ukraine giving up land to Russia and the need for 'cast-iron' security guarantees. The tone is informative and neutral, with a focus on the complexities of the situation and the various stakeholders involved.
Entities: White House, Ukraine, US-Russia summit, Alaska, Donald TrumpTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Air Canada suspends all operations as flight attendants go on strike, government forces arbitration - CBS News

Air Canada's flight attendants went on strike on Saturday, causing the airline to suspend all operations and stranding over 100,000 travelers worldwide. The strike was the result of a bitter contract dispute between the airline and the Canadian Union of Public Employees, representing 10,000 flight attendants. The Canadian government intervened, forcing the flight attendants back to work and into arbitration. The dispute centered on issues of pay and unpaid work done by flight attendants. The strike had significant impacts on travelers, with many stranded abroad and others facing uncertainty about their travel plans. The government's intervention was seen as a move to mitigate the economic risks associated with the strike.
Entities: Air Canada, Canada, Patty Hajdu, Canadian Union of Public Employees, Federal Jobs MinisterTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Iraq starts excavation of suspected Islamic State mass grave - CBS News

Iraqi officials have begun excavating a suspected mass grave left behind by the Islamic State (IS) in al-Khafsa, south of Mosul. The site is believed to contain thousands of victims, including Iraqi army and police personnel, Yazidis, and Shiite victims. The excavation is being carried out by local authorities, the judiciary, forensic investigations, Iraq's Martyrs' Foundation, and the directorate of mass graves. The operation is initially limited to gathering visible human remains and surface evidence while preparing for a full exhumation that will require international support. Witness testimonies and findings from other mass graves suggest that the site may be one of the largest mass graves in modern Iraqi history.
Entities: Iraq, Islamic State, Mosul, Ahmad Qusay al-Asady, NinevehTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Israel prepares to move Palestinians to southern Gaza as Israelis urge mass protest over war - CBS News

The Israeli military is preparing to move Palestinians from combat zones to southern Gaza ahead of a planned military offensive. The move has been criticized by several countries, including France, Britain, Canada, and Australia, which have announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state. Meanwhile, families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza are calling for a nationwide protest in Israel to demand the government's action to secure their release. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with high levels of starvation and malnutrition reported, and the U.N. has warned of a catastrophic situation. The U.S. has announced a halt on visitor visas for people from Gaza pending a review of the visa issuance process.
Entities: Israel, Gaza, Palestinians, Benjamin Netanyahu, HamasTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Rubio says "both sides are going to have to make concessions" to end war in Ukraine - CBS News

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on CBS News' 'Face the Nation' that both Russia and Ukraine will need to make concessions to end the ongoing war. Rubio's comments came after a meeting between President Trump and Russian President Putin in Alaska, which Trump described as 'extremely productive.' Rubio emphasized that a lasting peace agreement requires compromise from both sides, highlighting areas such as security guarantees for Ukraine, territorial disputes, and rebuilding efforts. The US is set to discuss these matters further with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders at the White House.
Entities: Marco Rubio, Ukraine, Russia, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Vladimir PutinTone: neutralSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

An Asian data center hub is quietly grappling with AI's massive costs

The rapid growth of data centers in Johor, Malaysia, driven by the demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, is straining the state's energy capacity and natural resources. The region has attracted billions of dollars in investments from major tech firms like Google, Microsoft, and ByteDance, creating economic opportunities and jobs. However, the massive energy requirements of data centers are pushing the limits of Johor's resources, with officials slowing down approvals for new projects. Malaysia's data center industry is expected to consume 20% of the country's total energy-generating capacity by 2035, potentially clashing with its net-zero emissions goal. The government is exploring solutions such as renewable energy, nuclear power, and water conservation measures. The issue is not unique to Malaysia, as data centers globally face similar challenges, with some governments prioritizing economic growth over environmental concerns.
Entities: Johor, Malaysia, Google, Microsoft, ByteDanceTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Pop Mart's Labubus boost China's soft power as its brands find global appeal

China's soft power is growing as its brands gain global appeal, driven by companies like Pop Mart, whose 'Labubus' plush toys have become a cultural phenomenon worldwide. The success of Chinese brands, including video games like 'Black Myth Wukong' and 'Genshin Impact', is helping to reshape the country's image and challenge negative perceptions. According to consultancy Brand Finance, China's strategic efforts to enhance its global image and focus on sustainable development have contributed to its rise in the global soft power index, overtaking the UK and ranking second only to the US. As Chinese brands continue to expand globally, it remains to be seen whether the government will allow them to speak for themselves and maintain their authenticity.
Entities: Pop Mart, Labubus, China, Goldman Sachs, RihannaTone: positiveSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

Tokyo tops list for 2025's best 'workcation' destinations in the world

Tokyo has been ranked as the top destination for 'workcations' globally in 2025, according to a report by International Workplace Group (IWG). The ranking is based on factors such as broadband speed, transport infrastructure, safety, culture, and the newly launched digital nomad visa. Tokyo's proximity to natural escapes like mountains, coastal regions, and national parks also contributed to its top spot. The report highlights the growing trend of hybrid workers seeking destinations that offer a mix of urban atmosphere and natural escapes. Other top destinations for workcations include Rio De Janeiro, Budapest, Seoul, and Barcelona. The report also notes that 86% of hybrid workers consider the availability of flexible workspaces a major factor in their choice of destination.
Entities: Tokyo, International Workplace Group (IWG), Japan, Mark Dixon, SeoulTone: neutralSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

The new geography of stolen goods | The Economist

Britain has become a leading exporter of stolen goods, including high-end cars, phones, and agricultural equipment, which are smuggled out of the country via container ships and sold in distant markets such as West Africa, China, and Eastern Europe. The rise in theft is attributed to the growing demand for these products in emerging markets, facilitated by encrypted communications and global supply chains. The UK's saturated consumer market, weak export controls, and low crime-solving rate make it an attractive hub for criminal gangs. The article highlights the sophistication of the criminal enterprise, dubbed 'Grand Theft Global Inc,' and warns that this phenomenon may spread to other countries.
Entities: Britain, Grand Theft Global Inc, Felixstowe, MSC Ruby, Adam GibsonTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

After Putin’s win in Alaska, Zelensky travels to Washington for his day of high stakes talks, how far can he push Trump? | CNNClose icon

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington for high-stakes talks, following a recent summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The Alaska meeting was seen as a significant diplomatic victory for Putin, with Trump appearing deferential to the Russian leader. The talks in Washington will focus on a potential peace deal in Ukraine, with concerns that Trump may push for a quick agreement that involves significant territorial concessions to Russia. Ukraine and its European allies are likely to resist such demands, potentially casting themselves as obstacles to peace in the eyes of the White House.
Entities: Volodymyr Zelensky, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Ukraine, RussiaTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Lavrov appears to wear CCCP sweater | CNN

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov was seen wearing a sweater with 'CCCP' on it during a visit to Alaska, sparking interest ahead of a summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The summit ultimately ended without a deal on the war in Ukraine, despite Russian state media reporting positively on the outcome. Other news stories covered include protests in Israel demanding a hostage deal, climate change affecting poorly housed residents in Hong Kong, and a toxic landfill in London.
Entities: Sergey Lavrov, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Alaska, CCCPTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Live updates: Trump tells Zelensky to give up Crimea and agree to never join NATO | CNN PoliticsClose icon

US President Donald Trump is pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to agree to Russia's conditions to end the war, including ceding Crimea and not joining NATO. Zelensky is visiting Washington, DC, accompanied by European leaders, to discuss a potential peace deal. Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, says Putin has agreed to allow US security guarantees for Ukraine and made concessions on 'land swaps.' However, many sticking points remain, and Zelensky has repeated his red line on territory, stating that the Ukrainian Constitution makes it impossible to give up territory or trade land.
Entities: Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky, Vladimir Putin, Steve Witkoff, CrimeaTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Russian media reacts positively to Trump-Putin Summit | CNN

The article discusses the positive reaction of Russian media to the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, where the two leaders met to discuss Ukraine and other issues. Russian state TV celebrated the handshake between Trump and Putin, and Russian officials stated that the meeting resulted in progress on sanctions and opened up room for future negotiations. The article also covers related news, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's upcoming meeting with Trump at the White House, US envoy Steve Witkoff's hopes for a trilateral meeting between Trump, Zelensky, and Putin, and protesters in Alaska condemning the 'no deal' outcome of the Trump-Putin talks. Additionally, the article touches on other news stories, such as DC Attorney General Brian Schwalb's lawsuit against the Trump administration over its moves to take over the city's police department.
Entities: Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Volodymyr Zelensky, Alaska, CNNTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Trump cranks up pressure on Zelensky ahead of his high-stakes White House return | CNN PoliticsClose icon

The article discusses the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House, where Trump is expected to pressure Zelensky to agree to terms to end the war with Russia. Trump recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where he appeared to echo some of Moscow's talking points, causing concern among European leaders and Ukrainian officials. The meeting is seen as a critical moment for European security and the Western alliance, with Trump's sincerity and capacity to lead Ukraine and Russia toward a peaceful resolution being put to the test. European leaders are accompanying Zelensky to the White House as a show of support and to ensure that Europe's interests are represented.
Entities: Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky, Vladimir Putin, Ukraine, RussiaTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump relaxed restrictions on a key AI chip for China. Beijing isn’t saying thank you. | CNN BusinessClose icon

The US, under President Donald Trump, has relaxed restrictions on Nvidia's sales of a key AI chip, the H20, to China. Despite China's long-standing requests to ease export controls, Beijing's response has been lukewarm, with concerns raised about the chip's security risks. China's chip industry has made significant progress, with companies like Huawei developing comparable chips, but still relies on US technology. The H20 chip remains highly sought after by Chinese companies due to its performance and Nvidia's established ecosystem. The development has sparked questions about Trump's transactional approach to national security and China's confidence in its growing semiconductor capabilities.
Entities: Donald Trump, China, Nvidia, Huawei, USTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Israel announces next phase of war against Hamas in Gaza City operation | Fox News

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is planning to move forward with its war against Hamas in Gaza City, with the Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, announcing the next phase of 'Operation Gideon's Chariots.' The operation aims to decisively defeat Hamas and bring home Israeli hostages. The plan, approved by Israel's Security Cabinet, involves calling up over 400,000 military reservists to carry out the operation until November 30. Zamir emphasized the IDF's moral duty to bring the hostages home and praised the soldiers for their service. The announcement comes a week after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced plans for Israel to take over the Gaza strip for an indefinite period following the war.
Entities: Israel Defense Forces, Hamas, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, Gaza, IsraelTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Trump backs Putin's proposal for Russia to control Ukraine's Donbas region | Fox News

The article reports that Russian leader Vladimir Putin proposed that Moscow take full control of Ukraine's Donbas region in exchange for ending the war with Ukraine, and that President Trump supports the terms. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously rejected the idea of surrendering the territory. Trump told European allies that Putin wants the key Luhansk and Donetsk regions, but is open to ending the stalemate in other areas. After meeting with Putin, Trump reversed his support for a ceasefire and is now seeking a peace agreement. Zelenskyy is set to meet with Trump at the White House to discuss the proposal.
Entities: Vladimir Putin, Ukraine, Donbas region, President Trump, Volodymyr ZelenskyyTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Donald Trump says Volodymyr Zelenskyy 'can end war with Russia if he wants to' - ahead of crucial White House meeting | World News | Sky News

Donald Trump has stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy can end the war with Russia 'almost immediately if he wants to' ahead of a crucial White House meeting. Zelenskyy will be supported by European leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, and Ursula von der Leyen, as they aim to protect Ukraine from conceding key regions to Russia. The meeting comes after Trump's high-profile talks with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where they discussed a potential 'NATO-like' security guarantee for Ukraine. Zelenskyy has expressed gratitude for the invitation and emphasized the need for a lasting peace, while Trump has suggested that the meeting could pave the way for a three-way meeting with Putin.
Entities: Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Vladimir Putin, Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel MacronTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Jimmy Lai's son says his father will 'most likely die in jail' unless UK govt intervenes | World News | Sky News

The article discusses the trial of Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy campaigner and UK citizen, who faces life in prison under Hong Kong's national security law. Lai's son, Sebastien, warns that his father will 'most likely die in jail' unless the UK government intervenes. The trial has drawn international attention, with concerns over Lai's health and the implications of his imprisonment for Hong Kong's status as a financial centre. The article also highlights the crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong and the erosion of democratic freedoms.
Entities: Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong, UK, Sebastien Lai, BeijingTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Leaders have worked hard to get on the right side of 'unpredictable' Trump - precisely for moments like today | World News | Sky News

The article discusses a meeting at the White House between US President Donald Trump and several world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to discuss Ukraine's security guarantees. European leaders have worked hard to build relationships with Trump, and the meeting is seen as an opportunity for Trump to create a moment for peace. However, there are concerns about Trump's unpredictability and the potential for a peace deal that may not be sustainable. The leaders will likely use a tone of flattery and gentle warning to persuade Trump to commit to Europe's security.
Entities: Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, White House, Europe, RussiaTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Why is Zelenskyy bringing a posse of European leaders to the US for peace talks? | World News | Sky News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is bringing a group of European leaders to the US for peace talks with Donald Trump, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Sir Keir Starmer, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The move is seen as an attempt to prevent a repeat of a chaotic meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump in February, where Trump and his vice-president, JD Vance, berated Zelenskyy. The European leaders are expected to provide support and mediation during the talks, which will discuss a potential ceasefire with Russia and a mineral deal between Ukraine and the US. The leaders accompanying Zelenskyy have good relationships with Trump, with some having developed friendships with him.
Entities: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Donald Trump, European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, Sir Keir StarmerTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

'You just need a bad day to get killed': Defusing death in the former IS terror capital | World News | Sky News

The article discusses the ongoing threat posed by landmines and booby traps left behind by Islamic State (IS) and other parties in the Syrian city of Raqqa, now that the regime of Bashar al-Assad has fallen. Mine disposal expert Sunil Thapa, who has 19 years of experience, is working to defuse these explosives, risking his life daily. The article highlights the scale of the challenge, with over 1,100 casualties from landmines and unexploded ordnance since Assad's fall, and the expected return of two million Syrians to their homes by the end of 2025. Thapa's work is crucial in making Raqqa safer for its people, and he does it for his family, whom he hopes to spend more time with upon his retirement.
Entities: Sunil Thapa, Raqqa, Syria, Islamic State, Bashar al-AssadTone: analyticalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Bolivia's presidential vote heads to runoff : NPR

Bolivia's presidential election has gone to a runoff between centrist Rodrigo Paz and right-wing former President Jorge Quiroga. Paz received 32.8% of the votes, while Quiroga secured 26.4%. The results mark a significant shift away from the left-wing dominance of the Movement Toward Socialism party, which has governed Bolivia for nearly two decades. The runoff will be held on October 19.
Entities: Rodrigo Paz, Jorge Quiroga, Bolivia, Movement Toward Socialism, Evo MoralesTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Pakistan defends flood response after over 270 people killed : NPR

Heavy monsoon rains have caused severe flooding in northwestern Pakistan, resulting in at least 274 deaths. Authorities have defended their response to the disaster, stating that they do not require foreign assistance. The flooding has been exacerbated by climate change, with Pakistan experiencing 50% more rainfall than in the same period last year. The region is prone to extreme weather events, and experts warn that the frequency and severity of such events will continue to intensify. Residents have criticized the lack of timely warnings, which they say contributed to the high casualty count. The death toll is expected to rise as search efforts continue.
Entities: Pakistan, Kashmir, Buner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, IndiaTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Ex-Nashville cop Sean Herman enters new plea after being arrested for groping OnlyFans star’s breasts during mock traffic stop

Former Nashville police officer Sean Herman has pleaded no contest to felony official misconduct after being arrested for groping an OnlyFans model's breasts during a mock traffic stop for a promotional video while on duty. Herman, 35, was sentenced to a year of supervised probation and granted judicial diversion, which may result in the dismissal of his case if he completes probation successfully. He was fired from the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department in May 2024 after detectives discovered he was the officer in the X-rated video. The video was produced by local OnlyFans star Jordin, who claimed it was for promotional purposes and not for her OnlyFans content. Herman's certification to be a law enforcement officer in Tennessee was indefinitely suspended in August 2024.
Entities: Sean Herman, Nashville, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, Jordin, OnlyFansTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump knows the dangers of addiction — he must reject Big Weed's push to reclassify marijuana

The article argues that President Trump should reject the push to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, citing the dangers of addiction and the lack of sound science on its medical benefits. Trump has personal experience with addiction due to his brother's struggles with alcoholism and has been considering reclassifying marijuana. The article claims that marijuana is worse than alcohol, especially for mental health, and that reclassification would benefit the $33 billion industry but not the public. It also highlights that three states recently rejected marijuana legalization measures and that the new DEA administrator, Terrance Cole, has expressed concerns about marijuana.
Entities: President Trump, Joe Biden, Marijuana, Trulieve, Kim RiversTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: persuade

Trump says Zelensky can end war with Russia 'almost immediately' by doing these two things, ahead of White House meeting

Former President Trump stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could end the war with Russia 'almost immediately' if he agrees to two major concessions: dropping Ukraine's bid to join NATO and accepting Russia's annexation of Crimea. Trump's comments came ahead of a high-profile summit at the White House where he is expected to meet with Zelensky and European leaders. Zelensky has expressed gratitude for US support but emphasized that any peace deal must be lasting. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that a lasting peace would require both Russia and Ukraine to make hard compromises. Putin has demanded that Ukraine surrender the remaining quarter of Donetsk as part of a deal, but Zelensky has rejected this demand.
Entities: Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia, Ukraine, NATOTone: positiveSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Is Arsenal’s grind impressive? Should three teams be worried? Who does Guardiola want to leave? – The Briefing - The Athletic

The article discusses three main topics related to the Premier League: Arsenal's 1-0 win over Manchester United, the struggles of Brentford, West Ham, and Wolves, and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's concerns about having too many players on his squad. Arsenal's victory was seen as a testament to their resilience and mentality, but not necessarily a revelation. The article also expresses concerns about the prospects of Brentford, West Ham, and Wolves, who all lost their opening games in a manner that reinforced existing doubts. Meanwhile, Guardiola highlighted his concerns about having too many players on his squad and potentially letting some go, with Tottenham and Nottingham Forest being linked to City players Savinho and Rico Lewis, respectively.
Entities: Arsenal, Manchester United, Mikel Arteta, Brentford, West HamTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Opinion | All Russia Needs to Do Is Go Home - The New York Times

The article argues that Russia's President Vladimir Putin is the main obstacle to peace in Ukraine and that the US President Donald Trump has been too lenient towards him. The author, Olga Rudenko, asserts that Russia could end the war by simply withdrawing its forces and that any peace deal must involve Ukraine's participation. She criticizes Trump's approach, suggesting that he is driven by his friendship with Putin and may force Ukraine to accept Russia's terms, which would be a betrayal of the Ukrainians who have died defending their land.
Entities: Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, Ukraine, Russia, NATOTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: persuade

Trump Is Pushing India Back Toward China - The New York Times

The article discusses how the Trump administration's threat to double tariffs on Indian goods has led to a rift between the US and India, causing India to ease tensions with China. The thaw in relations between China and India has been marked by increased official visits, discussions on easing trade barriers, and the movement of people. Analysts say that China's cautious optimism is driven by the possibility that India's friendlier posture may be a hedge against the Trump administration. Despite this, there are still many areas of tension between China and India, including border disputes and China's close ties with Pakistan.
Entities: China, India, United States, Narendra Modi, Xi JinpingTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump’s Tariffs Will Crush India’s Exporters, Threatening Livelihoods - The New York Times

The article discusses the potential economic impact of the US doubling tariffs on Indian exports from 25% to 50% on August 27, as imposed by President Trump. Indian industries such as carpetmaking, textiles, garments, aquaculture, and furniture are expected to be severely affected, potentially leading to widespread unemployment and poverty. The article highlights the concerns of Indian businesses and the government's response, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizing the need for self-reliance. The tariffs are seen as a threat to India's economy and the livelihoods of millions of workers.
Entities: Donald Trump, India, United States, Narendra Modi, Ishtiaq Ahmad KhanTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Zelensky Calls for ‘Lasting’ Peace in Ukraine Ahead of Trump Meeting - The New York Times

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for a 'lasting' peace to end the war in Ukraine ahead of his meeting with US President Donald Trump. Zelensky warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously used seized Ukrainian land as a 'springboard for a new attack.' Trump's recent meeting with Putin in Alaska ended without a ceasefire, with Trump backing Putin's plan for a peace agreement based on Ukraine ceding territory to Russia. Zelensky subtly pushed back against this idea, referencing Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and invasion of eastern Ukraine as a cautionary tale. The two leaders are set to meet at the White House on Monday, along with several European leaders.
Entities: Volodymyr Zelensky, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Ukraine, RussiaTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Lights dim at South-east Asia’s scam hub but ‘pig butchering’ continues | The Straits Times

The scam hub in Shwe Kokko, Myanmar, continues to operate despite a crackdown in February that removed over 9,000 workers. The town's entertainment venues and scam compounds remain open, with syndicates using alternative power sources and trying to stay under the radar. South-east Asia has become a major breeding ground for transnational criminal networks, with the region described as "ground zero" for the global online scamming industry. Experts estimate that regional scam networks generate between US$50 billion and US$75 billion annually.
Entities: Shwe Kokko, Myanmar, China, Thailand, South-east AsiaTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Bolivia presidential election: preliminary results put two rightwing candidates in run-off vote | Bolivia | The Guardian

Bolivia's presidential election has gone to a run-off for the first time, with two right-wing candidates, Rodrigo Paz Pereira and Jorge 'Tuto' Quiroga, competing for the presidency. The election marks the end of nearly 20 years of dominance by the leftist Movimiento al Socialismo (Mas) as the country grapples with an economic crisis. Preliminary results show Paz Pereira leading with 32.1% of the vote, followed by Quiroga with 26.9%. The run-off is scheduled for October 19. The election was monitored by over 2,500 national and international observers, who reported that polling proceeded normally. The economic crisis, characterized by shortages of dollars and fuel and rising inflation, is expected to dominate the run-off campaign. The leftist candidate Andrónico Rodríguez finished fourth, and former president Evo Morales urged his supporters to cast null and void votes in protest against rulings that blocked him from seeking a fourth term.
Entities: Rodrigo Paz Pereira, Jorge 'Tuto' Quiroga, Bolivia, Movimiento al Socialismo (Mas), Evo MoralesTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Who were the Ukrainian children killed by Russian strikes in 2025? - Washington Post

The article from The Washington Post discusses the tragic deaths of Ukrainian children due to Russian strikes in 2025, amidst the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. It highlights the stories of several children killed in various attacks across Ukraine, providing personal anecdotes and details about their lives and the circumstances of their deaths. The article underscores the escalating violence and its impact on civilians, particularly children, and mentions the failure of diplomatic efforts to halt the conflict, such as the meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Entities: Ukraine, Russia, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, United NationsTone: emotionalSentiment: negativeIntent: inform