Global Crises and Diplomatic Efforts

The article reports on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza City, with Israel intensifying its air attacks on residential areas. The UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and Japan have issued a joint statement expressing concern over the 'unfolding famine' in Gaza and urging action to facilitate aid entry. Israel denies starvation in Gaza, accusing UN agencies of not picking up aid at the borders. The World Health Organization has appealed to Israel to allow medical supplies into Gaza to address a 'catastrophic' health situation. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting 100 deaths in 24 hours, including 31 at aid sites. The international community has condemned Israel's actions, with some labeling the situation an 'unfolding genocide.'

Madonna has urged Pope Francis (erroneously referred to as Pope Leo XIV in the article) to visit Gaza, citing his ability to gain entry into the conflict zone. She expressed her concern over the suffering of children in Gaza and called for the humanitarian gates to be fully opened. The article highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, with the UN warning of a 'worst-case scenario of famine' and reports of increasing malnutrition-related deaths. Madonna's plea comes amid international pressure on Israel to address the humanitarian crisis, with various countries and organizations, including U2, expressing solidarity with the people of Palestine and calling for action to alleviate the suffering.

The US National Guard has been deployed to Washington DC amid a surge in violent crime, with 800 troops and 500 federal law enforcement agents expected to be involved. Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has criticized the move as an 'authoritarian push' by President Donald Trump, who has also threatened to deploy troops to other Democratic-controlled cities like New York and Chicago. The deployment comes as crime figures in Washington DC show a mixed picture, with some data indicating a drop in crime last year, while others suggest the capital's homicide rate remains higher than average compared to other major US cities.

At least 40 people have been killed in an attack on the Abu Shouk camp for displaced people in Sudan's western Darfur region. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is accused of carrying out the assault. The camp is home to over 200,000 people, mostly from non-Arab communities. The conflict in Darfur has triggered a humanitarian crisis, with the UN warning of starvation in the besieged city of el-Fasher. The RSF has been accused of ethnic cleansing and genocide in the past. The attack on Abu Shouk camp is the latest in a series of violent incidents in the region, which has seen tens of thousands of people killed and 12 million displaced since the conflict began in April 2023.

Nigerian Afropop star Tems has spoken out about the lack of respect for women in the music industry. She shared her personal struggles at the start of her career and how she had to fight to be taken seriously. Tems is now using her platform to help other young women in the industry through her new initiative, The Leading Vibe Initiative. The project aims to provide opportunities for women to develop their skills and access a wider audience. Tems also spoke about her own success, including her collaborations with Beyoncé and Rihanna, and her recent investment in US football club San Diego FC.

The US has announced criminal charges against Jimmy Cherizier, a Haitian gang leader known as "Barbecue", for soliciting funds to support his gang's violent activities. Cherizier leads the group Viv Ansanm, which controls much of Port-au-Prince and has been accused of multiple human rights abuses. The US is offering a $5m reward for information leading to his arrest. Cherizier is also under sanctions from the UN, Canada, and Britain for fueling violence in Haiti. The country is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with 5.7 million people facing acute food insecurity and over one million internally displaced people.

A severe heatwave is causing widespread wildfires across southern Europe, resulting in at least three deaths and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. Countries affected include Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Greece, Turkey, Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. Temperatures have soared above 40C, with some areas expected to reach 44C. The fires have been exacerbated by strong winds and dry conditions, with many regions under red heat alerts. Governments have deployed firefighters, soldiers, and aircraft to combat the blazes, with some areas experiencing significant damage and loss.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is joining European leaders in talks with US President Donald Trump ahead of his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. The leaders are expected to reiterate that no decisions should be taken without Ukraine's involvement, particularly regarding changing its borders by force. Trump has suggested that any peace deal could involve 'some swapping of territories,' which has raised concerns in Kyiv and Europe. Zelensky has insisted that Ukraine will not 'gift their land to the occupier' and that any changes to its territory require a referendum. The White House has downplayed expectations of the summit, calling it a 'listening exercise' for Trump.

A severe heat wave is sweeping across Europe, causing temperatures to soar above 109.4 degrees Fahrenheit in southern France and the Western Balkans. The extreme heat has fueled wildfires in multiple countries, including France, Bulgaria, Montenegro, and Turkey, forcing evacuations and prompting top-level weather alerts. The heat wave is part of a larger pattern of climate change, with Europe warming at a rate nearly twice the global average. The region has experienced record-breaking temperatures, with Hungary recording its highest ever temperature on Sunday. The heat wave has had a significant impact on daily life, with many countries issuing heat health alerts and taking measures to mitigate the effects of the heat.

A 54-pound meteorite from Mars was sold at a New York auction for over $5 million, sparking an investigation in Niger, where it was discovered, into possible 'illicit international trafficking.' Sotheby's auction house disputes the claim, stating that the meteorite was exported and transported according to international procedures. The investigation is ongoing, with Niger's government examining international heritage law and the UNESCO convention on cultural property.

Two Olympic gold medalist ski jumpers, Marius Lindvik and Johann André Forfang, and three staff members of the Norway men's team have been charged with ethics violations by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) for allegedly tampering with ski suits during the Nordic worlds in March. The investigation found evidence of "equipment manipulation" and the five individuals were provisionally suspended in March. The allegations have sparked formal protests from other teams and may result in severe punishments, including bans, fines, and disqualification of results. The case is set to be judged by the FIS Ethics Committee, with verdicts expected within 30 days of the hearing.

The US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order delaying a set of tariffs on Chinese goods for at least 90 days, extending a ceasefire in the US-China trade war. The tariffs will remain at 30%, and the US and China will continue negotiations to address trade reciprocity and national security concerns. The decision was made after multiple rounds of productive negotiations between the two countries. The tariffs were initially set to expire, which could have led to a significant increase in levies on Chinese goods. The US and China have been engaged in a trade war, with both countries imposing tariffs on each other's goods. The talks have been contentious at times, but both sides have expressed optimism about reaching a longer-term trade deal.

President Trump expects to determine within the first few minutes of his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin whether a deal can be made to halt the war in Ukraine. Trump described the meeting as a 'feel-out meeting' and said he may either encourage Ukraine to keep fighting or propose a deal. The meeting has raised concerns in Ukraine and Europe that an agreement may favor Russia without sufficient input from Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte supported the meeting, saying it's crucial to gauge Putin's seriousness. Trump was noncommittal about involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the discussions. The meeting is seen as a crucial step in the ongoing conflict, with Putin expected to push for maintaining Russia's current territorial gains and preventing Ukraine from joining NATO.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about the upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that 'talks about us, without us, will not work' for Ukraine. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine will not withdraw its forces from the Russian-occupied Donbas region. The summit is scheduled to take place in Alaska, and Zelenskyy's office confirmed that he will attend a virtual meeting with Trump and European leaders to discuss the war. Zelenskyy believes that Putin will benefit from the meeting, seeking photo opportunities, and that Ukrainian issues should be discussed by at least three parties.

China accused the U.S. of infringing its sovereignty after a U.S. destroyer, USS Higgins, sailed near the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. China claimed the ship 'illegally entered China's territorial waters' without approval, while the U.S. said it was conducting a 'freedom of navigation operation' in accordance with international law. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and China, including a trade spat and clashes between Chinese and Filipino ships in the South China Sea. The Philippines has accused China of aggressive actions, including directing lasers at patrolling aircraft and pursuing Philippine vessels. The U.S. has a mutual defense treaty with the Philippines, which could potentially draw it into a conflict with China.

The CNBC Daily Open article discusses the recent U.S. inflation data, which showed a less-than-expected increase in July. The consumer price index rose 0.2% for the month, with an annual rate of 2.7%, lower than the Dow Jones estimate of 2.8%. Despite some concerns that tariffs might drive prices higher, markets reacted positively, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite reaching new highs. The article also touches on other news, including Trump's threat to sue Fed Chair Powell, Perplexity AI's bid to buy Google's Chrome browser, and a prediction that gold prices could reach $4,000. The overall tone is neutral/informative with a hint of cautious optimism.

The article discusses the recent U.S. inflation data, which showed a slower-than-expected increase in prices. The consumer price index rose 0.2% in July, putting the annual rate at 2.7%, lower than the Dow Jones estimate of 2.8%. While the core figure was slightly higher than expected, markets reacted positively, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite reaching new highs. Investors now expect the Federal Reserve to cut rates three times this year. The article also touches on other news, including Trump's threat to sue Fed chair Powell and Perplexity AI's bid to buy Google's Chrome browser.

The article discusses the current state of London's financial sector, highlighting the challenges it faces due to Brexit, rising costs, and increased competition from other global financial centers. The author, a CNBC reporter, shares their observations after returning to London after years in New York. While the city's reputation as a financial hub has taken a hit, business leaders see opportunities for growth and recovery. The Bank of England's interest rate cut and the U.K.'s efforts to secure new trade deals are seen as positive steps. However, policymakers need to create a more conducive business environment to attract investment and talent.

The stock market saw a record-setting session on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite closing at fresh highs after inflation data was tamer than expected. The S&P 500 added 1.1% to settle at 6,445.76, while the Nasdaq ended 1.4% higher at 21,681.90. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added about 483 points, or 1.1%, to close at 44,458.61. However, in after-hours trading, Cava shares plunged more than 22% after the Mediterranean restaurant chain reported disappointing second-quarter revenue growth, and CoreWeave shares dropped about 9% after the artificial intelligence infrastructure provider delivered a mixed quarter. Traders are now pricing in a nearly 94% chance of a rate cut at the Federal Reserve's September meeting. The market's reaction to the inflation data and the upcoming producer price index report and the Fed's Jackson Hole meeting will be closely watched.

The article discusses the key stock market stories that are likely to impact the market in the next trading session. It highlights the performance of various stocks, including Block, Affirm, PayPal, Cava, Sweetgreen, Bloomin' Brands, and Brinker International. The article also mentions the big shorts, including Groupon, Icahn Enterprises, Rocket Cos., Plug Power, Oscar Health, Hims & Hers Health, and Kohl's. Additionally, it notes that Cisco will be reporting its earnings after the bell on Wednesday. The overall tone is informative, with a neutral sentiment. The primary intent is to provide readers with an overview of the current market trends and key events that may impact the market.

The article discusses Barentsburg, a Russian-run company town in Svalbard, Norway, which is a NATO country. The town is a relic of the Cold War era and has been a point of contention between Russia and Norway. Despite being on Norwegian territory, Barentsburg is heavily influenced by Russia, with Russian signs, murals, and scientific institutes. The town's coal mine is uneconomic and produces poor-quality coal, but Russia maintains its presence there, potentially for geopolitical reasons. The article highlights concerns among Western intelligence officials that Russia's presence in Barentsburg could be used to cause trouble, particularly given the increased tensions between Russia and Norway since the Ukraine war. The town's population has dwindled, and those who remain face growing isolation. The article also notes that relations between Barentsburg and the Norwegian town of Longyearbyen have deteriorated, with decreased exchanges and increased militarization of Russian parades.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that he has 'lost the plot' and that Israel's planned occupation of Gaza City is 'utterly unacceptable.' Luxon's comments come as his government considers recognizing a Palestinian state, following other members of the Five-Eyes security alliance. International condemnation is growing over Israel's actions in Gaza, with reports of mass starvation and malnutrition. Luxon's criticism is part of a broader trend of Western leaders speaking out against Israel's actions, with Australia and France also announcing plans to recognize Palestinian statehood.

The White House has finalized the location for the upcoming summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the meeting set to take place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. Officials scrambled to secure a venue due to Alaska's peak tourist season, and the chosen location met the necessary security requirements despite the White House's initial hesitation. The summit, described as a 'listening session' by the White House, is the first meeting between the two leaders in over four years and is still largely a work in progress. The US and Russian diplomats, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, discussed preparation aspects for the meeting. The choice of Alaska was the result of a lengthy back-and-forth between the Trump administration and the Kremlin, with Russia rejecting European destinations due to a war crimes warrant issued against Putin by the International Criminal Court.

The remains of 25-year-old meteorologist Dennis "Tink" Bell were discovered 66 years after his disappearance in Antarctica. Bell's body was found by the British Antarctic Survey and identified through DNA samples from his brother and sister. Bell had died in a crevasse accident while on an expedition in 1959. The discovery brings closure to a decades-long mystery and highlights Bell's contribution to the early science and exploration of Antarctica.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that Australia will recognize Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly next month. The decision is part of a broader international move, with countries like France, Britain, and Canada making similar declarations. Albanese emphasized that a two-state solution is 'humanity's best hope' to end the conflict in the Middle East. The announcement was met with criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused Australia and other countries of 'marching into a rabbit hole.' The Australian government's decision is contingent on commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including the demilitarization of Gaza and holding elections without Hamas's involvement. The move is seen as an effort to isolate Hamas and promote self-determination for the Palestinian people.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet with US President Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday, marking Putin's first trip to the US in a decade. The meeting comes after Trump announced that he would be meeting with Putin to discuss a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. Several locations were considered for the meeting, including Hungary, Switzerland, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates, before Alaska was ultimately chosen. The decision to hold the meeting in Alaska has been seen as a nod to the state's historical ties to Russia, with Russian officials describing it as the 'perfect stage' for the meeting. Trump has stated that he hopes to broker a deal between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but has also said that he will not make a deal without consulting with European leaders and Zelenskyy first.

European Union leaders held a ministerial meeting to discuss the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, where Trump plans to discuss a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. The EU made it clear that there should be no concessions to Russia until they agree to a full and unconditional ceasefire. EU policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that any deal between the US and Russia must include Ukraine and the EU, as it is a matter of Ukraine's and Europe's security. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also responded to Trump's suggestion of 'land swapping' between Ukraine and Russia, stating that Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier. The EU and Ukraine are united in their stance that any negotiations on Ukraine's future must include Ukraine and that aggression cannot be rewarded.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has renewed calls for Palestinians in Gaza to leave the territory, sparking concerns among Palestinians and international critics. This comes as Egypt is working towards a 60-day ceasefire, with mediators pushing for a comprehensive agreement that includes the release of hostages and Palestinian detainees, as well as unrestricted humanitarian aid to Gaza. Netanyahu's comments have been seen as an attempt to push residents out amid an intensifying military campaign. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with the UN warning of widespread famine in Gaza.

The article discusses the potential outcomes of the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, specifically focusing on the possibility of a 'land for peace' deal that could see Ukraine give up territory to Russia in exchange for an end to the fighting. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Putin wants the rest of Donetsk and effectively the entire eastern Donbas region as part of a ceasefire plan, which Ukraine would reject. Experts say that Russia currently occupies around 19% of Ukraine, including Crimea and parts of the Donbas region, and that a ceasefire along the frontline is possible but uncertain. The article also explores the potential territories that Ukraine could be forced to give up, including the 'fortress belt' of cities that has held back Russian invaders for 11 years, and the possibility of Russia returning some territory to Ukraine.

Tennis legend Monica Seles has revealed she is 'learning to live with a new normal' after being diagnosed with a rare chronic neuromuscular disease called myasthenia gravis (MG) three years ago. Seles, who won nine Grand Slams during her career, first noticed the symptoms while playing tennis, experiencing muscle weakness, double vision, and difficulty with everyday tasks. She has partnered with immunology company argenx to promote their Go for Greater campaign to raise awareness about MG. Seles reflects on her life journey, comparing her diagnosis to other significant life challenges she has faced, including relocating to the US as a teenager, becoming a famous tennis player, and recovering from a stabbing attack during a tournament.

The Philippines has condemned China's 'dangerous manoeuvres' after two Chinese vessels collided while chasing a Philippine Coastguard patrol boat in the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. The incident occurred on Monday when a Chinese Coastguard patrol boat hit a Chinese navy ship, causing substantial damage to the Coastguard vessel and posing a grave danger to Philippine personnel and vessels. The Philippines' foreign ministry criticized China's actions, stating that they were unlawful and resulted in the collision between the two Chinese vessels. The incident has heightened tensions between the two countries, both of which claim the Scarborough Shoal and other areas in the South China Sea. The US Ambassador to Manila has also condemned China's actions, commending the Philippine Coastguard for their professionalism.

US President Donald Trump is set to host Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks at the remote Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. The base is significant for both America and Russia, given its location and historical context. Alaska was purchased from the Russian Empire 158 years ago, and the area played a crucial role during the Cold War. Despite its significance, Putin has never visited Anchorage during his time in the Kremlin. The meeting between Trump and Putin is expected to discuss the Russia-Ukraine conflict, among other topics. Some critics have raised concerns that the location may be used by Putin to make territorial arguments, referencing the historical sale of Alaska to the US.

The upcoming Trump-Putin summit is being reframed as a 'listening exercise' by the White House, reflecting concerns from European leaders about Vladimir Putin's demands. The summit will take place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, a strategic location given its proximity to Russia. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected Putin's proposal, which includes ceding territory in eastern Ukraine. European leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, are holding online talks with Zelenskyy and Trump to address their concerns. The summit's outcome is uncertain, with some critics arguing that holding talks in Alaska could be seen as legitimizing Putin's territorial demands.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding Israeli settlements in the West Bank, a territory internationally recognized as Palestinian. It explains that settlements are Israeli-built villages, towns, or cities in occupied territory, with around 700,000 settlers living in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The settlements are considered illegal under international law but are authorized by the Israeli government. The article highlights the violence and intimidation by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, with reports of attacks on Palestinian villages and olive harvesters. It also notes that the Israeli government has approved new settlements and legalized outposts previously built without authorization. The article presents different perspectives, including those of settlers who believe they have a holy right to occupy the land and Palestinians who have been forcibly displaced from their homes.

The wife of South Korea's jailed former President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Keon Hee, has been arrested over various corruption allegations including bribery, stock manipulation, and meddling in a 2022 legislative by-election. Investigators suspect that Kim and Yoon exerted undue influence on the conservative People Power Party to nominate a specific candidate. Kim is also linked to multiple corruption allegations, including receiving luxury gifts and involvement in a stock price manipulation scheme. The arrest is part of a special prosecutor's investigation launched under Seoul's new liberal government targeting Yoon's presidency. Yoon and Kim are the first former presidential couple to be jailed simultaneously over criminal allegations in South Korea.

A TikTok video showing a woman checking out of a hotel by simply walking out without notifying the front desk has sparked a debate among viewers about the proper etiquette for checking out of a hotel. Some people praised the 'ghost exit' as efficient, while others criticized it as impolite and inconsiderate to hotel staff. Travel agent Shay Martin weighed in, stating that while there's nothing stopping guests from leaving without checking out, it's considered courteous to do so to help hotel staff and avoid potential billing issues. The debate highlights differing opinions between generations on what constitutes proper hotel etiquette.

The author, a former track athlete at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), recounts her experience of being replaced by a male athlete, Sadie Schreiner, who identifies as a woman, in women's track events. She describes how Schreiner's participation erased her records, undermined her team's camaraderie, and violated her sense of dignity and fairness. The author criticizes the NCAA and RIT for allowing this to happen and for not supporting female athletes. She has joined a lawsuit against the NCAA, Gaines v. NCAA, to seek justice for women in college sports.

The article critiques NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's strategy of attacking President Trump during his borough tour, calling it 'amateur hour.' The author argues that Mamdani's approach is misguided, as it focuses on painting Trump as an enemy rather than addressing the city's issues. The article also highlights the potential consequences of Mamdani's actions, including damaging the city's relationship with the federal government and ignoring the benefits of Trump's policies, such as the increased SALT deductions.

Pete Alonso broke the Mets' all-time home run record by hitting his 253rd career home run against the Braves on Tuesday night at Citi Field. Alonso surpassed Darryl Strawberry's record, who had 252 home runs while playing for the Mets from 1983-1990. Alonso achieved this feat in his 965th game for the Mets, significantly fewer games than Strawberry's 1,109 games. Alonso expressed his pride in becoming a franchise leader and hinted at the possibility of joining the 500-home run club before his career concludes. He also mentioned his desire to play until he is 40 if he stays healthy and continues to perform.

The article compares the expected relationship between a hypothetical Mayor Mamdani and the NYPD to that of former Mayor Bill de Blasio, suggesting it will be worse. De Blasio was known for his open disdain for cops, and Mamdani's record and rhetoric are even more anti-cop. The article argues that electing Mamdani would restart a downward spiral in NYPD-City Hall relations and that the men and women who keep New Yorkers safe deserve better than a mayor who'll never have their backs.

A 19-year-old US sailor, Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV, has been declared lost at sea after going overboard the USS George Washington off the coast of Australia. Rivera Lynch was an Aviation Boatswain's Mate onboard the aircraft carrier and went missing on July 28. A search and rescue operation was launched, but it was called off after 45 hours. Rivera Lynch came from a long line of military service and had spoken with his parents just hours before he went missing. His family is grieving his loss and will hold a funeral and memorial service on Sept. 19 in Yokosuka, Japan.

The article fact-checks President Trump's claims about crime in Washington D.C., finding them to be false or misleading. Trump cited inaccurate statistics about murders and crimes committed by children to justify a federal takeover of the city. The article analyzes Trump's statements and provides evidence to contradict his claims, showing that the homicide rate in D.C. has actually declined and that the city's juvenile justice system is more complex than Trump suggested.

Kabul, Afghanistan's capital, is facing a severe water crisis, with its six million residents potentially running out of water by 2030 due to unregulated wells, scarcer rainfalls, and lack of investment in water management infrastructure. The city's water reserves are depleting at nearly twice the rate they are being replenished. Despite international efforts to improve water supply, most projects were halted after the Taliban took control in 2021. Residents are now fighting over access to water, with many relying on private water delivery services or charity. The Taliban administration lacks the funds to bring water from nearby dams and rivers to the city.

The article discusses President Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard to Washington D.C. to address local crime, contrasting it with his previous stance on the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Trump had called the January 6 rioters 'very special' and later issued pardons to those involved, while now taking a tough stance on crime in D.C. Critics argue that this shows hypocrisy and that Trump's actions are politically motivated.

President Trump is set to meet President Vladimir Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage on Friday. The meeting, described as a 'listening exercise,' aims to help Trump understand Putin's plans and potentially end the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Trump has expressed openness to negotiating 'land swaps' between Russia and Ukraine, despite Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, warning that Putin may try to deceive him. The meeting comes amid concerns over Russia's continued aggression in Ukraine and the weakening of economic sanctions imposed by the previous administration.

European leaders, led by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, are concerned about US President Donald Trump's upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. They fear Trump may cut a peace deal behind Ukraine's back and without European input. Merz will convene a video call with Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and other European leaders to stress the need for a full cease-fire before discussing peace terms. European leaders are worried that Trump's deal could embolden Putin, lead to a loss of Ukrainian territory, and encourage Russia to push further into Western Europe. They are also concerned that Trump may pull US support for Ukraine if Zelensky doesn't agree to his peace deal.

Brazil is debating whether to allow oil drilling near the mouth of the Amazon River, which could make it the world's fourth-largest oil producer. Supporters argue it will bring economic benefits, while critics warn of environmental disasters. Despite opposition, the oil lobby is likely to prevail due to conservative political majorities and President Lula's weak position. Brazil's climate policy credibility is at stake as it has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris Agreement.

The article discusses the persistence of scam hubs in South-east Asia, particularly in Myanmar, despite crackdowns. The Shwe Kokko town on the Myanmar-Thailand border continues to operate as a major scamming hub, with construction activity and entertainment venues still operational. Experts say that transnational criminal networks, predominantly from China, have driven the growth of the scam industry in the region. The industry is estimated to generate between $50 billion and $75 billion annually and involves hundreds of thousands of people, many of whom are trafficked or lured by fake job advertisements. The article highlights the role of corruption and graft in some South-east Asian governments and local militia in facilitating the growth of the scam industry.

A severe heatwave has led to widespread wildfires across southern Europe, resulting in the deaths of at least three men and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. The affected countries include Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, and Montenegro. The heatwave is linked to climate change, which is causing longer, more intense, and frequent extreme heat events. The wildfires have threatened historic sites, such as the Unesco World Heritage site of Las Medulas in Spain. The situation is dire, with temperature records broken in several regions and many areas under heat alerts.

The article discusses Chongqing, a municipality in China, and its unique urban planning challenges due to its mountainous terrain. The city's landscape is characterized by complex, multi-layered buildings and infrastructure that have been adapted to the natural obstacles. Chongqing has become a megacity with a population of 31.9 million people and is now an industrial powerhouse and a social media sensation. The city's development is rooted in its history as China's wartime capital during World War II and its designation as one of the four municipalities. The article highlights the city's innovative urban planning strategies, including a polycentric approach and extensive public transport network, which have enabled it to thrive despite its geographical constraints. However, the city also faces challenges such as heavy infrastructure investment and rising local government debt.

China's government has launched a crackdown on lavish civil servant perks, including lavish banquets and overseas travel for 'personal leisure', as part of an austerity drive aimed at reducing corruption. The new regulations, which affect the country's 40 million civil servants, have been criticized by experts who warn that they will harm the economy. The restrictions have already led to a decline in business for restaurants and liquor sales, with some analysts predicting a slowdown in retail sales growth. The crackdown is part of a broader campaign to regulate the daily lives of civil servants and reflects the government's growing concern about national security.