Brunei Darussalam — Southeast Asian sultanate on Borneo, oil-rich, absolute monarchy
A mounting body of studies shows climate hazards are increasingly disrupting data centers worldwide, raising costs and threatening reliability. Insurers warn of higher premiums; operators push for water-efficient cooling and location strategies. With heat waves intensifying, a systemic rethink of cooling, water use, and siting is underway.
A roundup of how restaurants worldwide are adapting to rising costs, supply challenges and changing consumer tastes, with chefs reinterpreting regional dishes using local produce, new immigrant cuisines gaining traction, and independent venues thriving amid market pressures.
The Philippines has formally objected to a China Daily AI-generated video that dehumanizes Filipinos and mocks the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling. Manila calls for takedown and warns against propaganda that escalates tensions as regional powers urge adherence to UNCLOS.
The US and Russia remain engaged in diplomatic talks aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Rubio has described constructive discussions with Lavrov in Manila, emphasizing a possible role for the US in brokering a settlement, while Lavrov reiterates Moscow’s readiness for a political solution. Talks come amid broader regional tensions and Middle East concerns.
Tensions in the South China Sea have intensified as Chinese coast guard vessels clash with Philippine forces near Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippines reports dangerous maneuvers and water cannon use by Chinese ships, while China accuses Manila of illegal activities. ASEAN ministers discuss the dispute and aim to advance a code of conduct this year.
A Vietnamese cargo vessel carrying 62 people sank near Fiery Cross Reef in the Spratly Islands. Rescue operations are ongoing with Vietnamese, Chinese and Philippine teams coordinating as 44 have been rescued and 18 remain missing.