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Ukraine Demands Ironclad Security Pledge Before Entertaining Putin Negotiations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is seeking security guarantees and a joint US-Ukrainian peace plan before entering talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy met with US Vice-President JD Vance and agreed to further talks to reach a common understanding, with no announcement on a minerals deal that could open up resources of rare earth metals in return for US support. Read the full story here
Chornobyl Nuclear Plant Suffers Radiation Shield Damage in Alleged Russian Drone Strike
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy reports that a Russian drone has damaged the Chornobyl plant's radiation shield. This incident has raised concerns about potential environmental and health risks. The damage to the nuclear plant's radiation shield is being assessed, with officials working to mitigate any potential consequences. The incident is a reminder of the ongoing conflict in the region. Read the full story here
Ancient Treasures Unearthed: Kazakhstan Yields 2,400-Year-Old Golden Adornments
Archaeologists have uncovered gold jewelry and weapons in three burial mounds in Kazakhstan, dating back to the fifth century B.C. These findings indicate that the western Atyrau region was a central hub of Sarmatian culture. More than 1,000 artifacts have been recovered, including gold ornaments and jewelry crafted in the distinctive “animalistic” Sarmatian style. The discoveries suggest that the region was once home to wealthy or possibly even “royal” Sarmatians. Read the full story here
US Eyes Strategic Stake in Ukraine’s Rare Earth Riches
The Trump administration has proposed a deal with Ukraine, suggesting the US gain 50% ownership of the country's rare earth minerals. The proposal aims to reimburse the US for its support to Ukraine since the war began. The deal was presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who declined to sign, stating he needs to review the details and consult with others. The US has expressed interest in accessing Ukraine's minerals, with President Trump emphasizing their…
Seoul Considers Damascus Overture Amid Syrian Regime Shift
The South Korean government is actively reviewing the possibility of establishing diplomatic relations with Syria. The move could further isolate North Korea, a longtime ally of Bashar al-Assad's regime. A high-ranking Foreign Ministry official stated that conditions for establishing diplomatic ties are becoming increasingly favorable. Discussions on diplomatic ties have gained momentum following the collapse of Assad's dictatorship in late 2024. Read the full story here
Jordan Closes Doors to New Palestinian Refugees, Says Minister
Jordan's foreign minister has announced that Arab countries are developing a plan to rebuild Gaza without displacing its people, ensuring security and governance. The plan, spearheaded by Saudi Arabia, aims to provide a counter to US President Donald Trump's proposal for a Middle East Riviera, and will focus on rebuilding Gaza while maintaining peace and security in the region. Read the full story here
Taichung Blast Probe: Authorities Pursue Manslaughter Charges Amid Fatal Explosion Aftermath
Prosecutors are investigating an explosion at a Taichung department store that caused four deaths and 35 injuries. The cause of the blast is still under investigation, but initial findings suggest a gas explosion. The investigation is looking into possible manslaughter and other criminal offences. Officials have issued a fine of NT$300,000 for turned off firefighting equipment, including gas leak detectors, on the floor where the explosion occurred. Read the full story here
Transatlantic Tussle: US Lawmakers Rebel Against UK’s Bid for Apple Encryption Keys
US lawmakers Senator Ron Wyden and Congressman Andy Biggs have condemned the UK's request to access encrypted data stored by Apple users worldwide. They urge the UK to withdraw its demand, citing concerns over US cybersecurity and privacy rights. The UK's request, made under the Investigatory Powers Act, seeks access to data stored using Apple's Advanced Data Protection service, which uses end-to-end encryption. The US lawmakers argue that agreeing to the request would undermine Americans'…
Drone Strike on Chornobyl: Zelensky Warns of Radiation Risk After Russian Attack
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that a Russian drone damaged the radiation containment shelter at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, causing a significant impact on the facility. Radiation levels remained normal after the incident, according to Zelensky and the UN's atomic energy watchdog, despite the drone striking the shelter and causing a fire that was later extinguished. Read the full story here
Violent Ambush Targets UNIFIL Convoy, Deputy Chief Injured in Pro-Hezbollah Uprising
UNIFIL Deputy Chief was attacked by pro-Hezbollah rioters whilvoye in a con, resulting in injuries. The incident occurred during a violent confrontation in the area. The United Nations has not released a statement on the condition of the deputy chief, but confirmed the attack on the convoy. Read the full story here