Ukraine Peace Talks Gain Momentum as Zelensky and Scholz Explore Path to Lasting Resolution
President Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held a phone call to discuss ways to achieve just peace in Ukraine. Scholz reiterated his solidarity with Ukraine and assured continued support. Zelensky and Scholz agreed that Ukraine must be included in future peace negotiations and that close coordination with European partners is necessary. A recent poll showed that 91% of Ukrainians oppose peace talks without Ukraine's participation. Read the full story here
European Union Unveils €20 Billion Rescue Plan for Ukraine Amid Shifting Global Alliances
The European Union is coordinating efforts to replenish Ukraine's arms supply, led by top diplomat Kaja Kallas. The aid is expected to come from individual member states rather than an official EU package. The move comes as EU officials prepare for a group expedition to Kyiv, marking the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and will be in close contact with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during their trip…
Israeli Embassy Targeted: Teenager Apprehended Over Alleged Terror Plot
German police have arrested an 18-year-old Russian national suspected of planning a "politically motivated" attack in Berlin, reportedly targeting the Israeli Embassy. The suspect was taken into custody in the state of Brandenburg and remanded in custody after appearing in court. The arrest was made after a tip-off, with riot police and specialist officers involved. Authorities have not provided further details on the alleged attack plan to protect the investigation, which is ongoing ahead of…
Aramco Makes Philippine Comeback Through Unioil Partnership
Saudi oil giant Aramco is reentering the Philippine market with a 25% stake in Unioil Petroleum Philippines, heating up competition in the industry. Aramco's investment aims to capitalize on the growth of the high-value fuels market and expand its global retail network, introducing its brands to Filipino consumers through Unioil's 165 retail stations and four storage terminals. Read the full story here
Standing Firm Against Putin: Macron’s Stark Warning to Trump
French President Emmanuel Macron intends to tell US President Donald Trump that it's in the joint interest of Americans and Europeans not to be weak in the face of Russian leader Vladimir Putin amid US-led negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Macron will travel to Washington to meet with Trump, and plans to persuade him that US interests and Europeans' interests are the same, emphasizing the need for a peace deal that includes Ukrainians…
Beijing Bolsters Maritime Might: China Conducts Consecutive Live-Fire Exercises in Tasman Sea
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has witnessed live rounds being fired from a Chinese warship in the Tasman Sea, approximately 340 nautical miles south-east of Sydney. The NZDF is working with the NZ Civil Aviation Authority to ensure all aircraft are notified of the live firing activity, with the safety of people, aircraft, and vessels in the area being the paramount concern. Read the full story here
Europe Rallies Behind Ukraine with Massive €20 Billion Defense Boost
The European Union is in discussions for a military aid package worth €20 billion for Ukraine. This package aims to provide significant financial support to the Ukrainian military. The proposed package is part of the EU's efforts to bolster Ukraine's defensive capabilities amidst ongoing conflict. The details of the package are still being negotiated among EU member states. Read the full story here
Seoul Seeks Reprieve from Washington’s Trade Taxes
South Korea has requested an exemption from new US tariffs and asked for continued support for companies investing in the US. Deputy trade minister Park Jong-won made the request during a meeting with US officials in Washington. Park emphasized the close economic ties between the two nations and proposed holding high-level talks to discuss pending issues and expand bilateral cooperation, highlighting the importance of free trade agreements. Read the full story here
Hong Kong’s Democratic Party Teeters on Brink of Collapse Amid Disbandment Plans
The Democratic Party of Hong Kong is considering dissolving due to the challenging situation its core members and imprisoned members face. A motion to disband the party was put forward by the central committee, and will be reviewed by all 400 members before a final decision is made, amid concerns about the party's ability to participate in the upcoming Legislative Council election. Read the full story here
Kyiv Seeks to Unlock Mineral Riches Amid Exclusion from US-Brokered Peace Negotiations
The United States and Ukraine are nearing a deal that could grant the US valuable mineral rights in Ukraine, with President Trump stating that an agreement could bring up to $500 billion to the US. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that his country is working on a draft agreement, aiming to strengthen relations with the US, while ensuring the deal's details are properly worked out to be effective. Read the full story here