Central European state of 1918–1992, roots in Prague and Bratislava
UNESCO has inscribed Mount Olympus in Greece and South Sudan’s Boma-Badingilo Migratory Landscape to the World Heritage List, marking a major milestone in a 12-year Greek campaign and highlighting one of Africa’s largest wildlife migrations. The moves come as Japan’s Asuka-Fujiwara sites are also recognized, underscoring UNESCO’s focus on cultural and natural heritage amid rising tourism.
Audrey Werro leads as the Diamond League heads to Zurich, with Keely Hodgkinson withdrawing due to readiness concerns. Dos Santos and Russell have set world-leading times, while Duplantis and Karalis push for 6.32m in pole vault.
Leaders from 34 countries are meeting in Kyiv on Ukraine’s Independence Day to pledge additional air defences and military aid. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is co-chairing the Coalition of the Willing, with France and Germany, and will authorize the release of classified blueprints for the SCALP missile to support Ukrainian production. EU funds are also being stepped up to bolster Ukraine’s shield as Russia escalates strikes.
West Ham United are reshaping leadership as Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky becomes chairman with a 46% stake, while long-time owner Sullivan steps back to 40% after a high-profile reshuffle that keeps him in the frame.
President Donald Trump has said the US is holding talks with Russia and China aimed at denuclearising their largest arsenals and that China could "catch up" to US nuclear capacity within five years; he has discussed the issue in interviews and, Newsmax reported, in a call with Xi Jinping. Today's date: Wed, 21 Oct 2026 16:20:11 +0100.
Elon Musk has pledged to give one SpaceX share to every child in America next year, a move tied to Trump Accounts and Treasury rules. The gift, worth about $10.5-10.7 billion at current prices, would reduce Musk’s SpaceX stake by roughly 1.5% while leaving voting power largely intact due to SpaceX’s dual-share structure. Details on eligibility and execution remain unclear.