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As of early September 2025, Russian forces continue incremental advances in eastern Ukraine, notably near Dobropillia and Donetsk, pressing Ukrainian defenses along a 1,000-kilometer front. Ukraine has reclaimed some villages and launched drone strikes on Russian territory, including a fire at a nuclear plant with no casualties. Peace talks remain stalled after Russia ruled out an immediate Putin-Zelensky summit despite ongoing prisoner exchanges and diplomatic efforts led by the US and European allies.
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Leaders of China, India, and Russia gathered at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, signaling a shift towards a more multipolar world. The summit emphasized regional stability, opposition to US dominance, and cooperation on security and economic issues amid ongoing tensions with Western nations.
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Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping were secretly recorded discussing the possibility of living to 150 years through biotechnology and organ transplants during a military parade in Beijing. The conversation highlights ongoing interest among authoritarian leaders in life extension, amid broader scientific and geopolitical developments. The footage was later removed following legal objections from CCTV.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong-un traveled to Beijing to attend a military parade with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The leaders reaffirmed their alliance, with Kim visiting for the first time outside North Korea since 2019. The trip signals a show of unity against Western influence and highlights deepening ties among the three nations.
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A classified 2019 US Navy SEAL Team 6 operation aimed at gathering intelligence in North Korea ended in tragedy. The mission was authorized by President Trump, but a series of errors led to the deaths of civilians, with the SEALs opening fire on a fishing vessel. The incident was kept secret until now.
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North Korea has completed its ninth and final ground test of a new solid-fuel ICBM engine, which Kim Jong-un claims marks a major breakthrough. The engine, capable of producing 1,971 kilonewtons of thrust, suggests an imminent missile launch, possibly the debut of the Hwasong-20, with potential applications in satellite launches and re-entry technology.
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The US, South Korea, and North Korea are engaged in heightened military activities. The recent trilateral 'Freedom Edge' drills aimed at countering North Korea's threats have been met with North Korean denunciations and warnings of counteractions. The absence of US aircraft carriers in the latest exercise suggests a strategic shift to avoid provoking Pyongyang.
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North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un visited a drone complex, emphasizing AI development for military use. The country is testing unmanned vehicles amid ongoing regional tensions, including joint US-South Korea drills and North Korea's expanding missile and nuclear programs. The story highlights North Korea's strategic focus on unmanned weapons.
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As of late September 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his refusal to denuclearize but expressed openness to talks with the US if Washington abandons its denuclearization demand. South Korean President Lee Jae-myung proposed a phased approach prioritizing exchanges and normalization before denuclearization, signaling a shift in Seoul's strategy amid rising regional tensions.
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Kim Jong Un has emphasized the importance of nuclear weapons, calling for their rapid development and renewal. He dismissed the possibility of denuclearization talks with the US, citing increased stockpiles of uranium and ongoing weapons tests. Recent assessments suggest North Korea possesses enough material for dozens of nuclear devices.
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On October 10, 2025, North Korea marked the 80th anniversary of its ruling Workers' Party with a military parade in Pyongyang, unveiling the Hwasong-20, a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) described as its "most powerful nuclear strategic weapon." The missile reportedly has a 15,000 km range, capable of striking the U.S. mainland, and may carry multiple warheads. Kim Jong Un emphasized military strength and called for an "invincible" army, while also engaging in diplomatic meetings with Chinese and Russian officials amid ongoing regional tensions.
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Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung held their third and likely final summit in Busan, focusing on regional security, North Korea, and bilateral cooperation amid political transitions. Leaders reaffirmed commitments despite historical tensions, with discussions on future relations and shared challenges.
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An Iraqi man has been sentenced to life in prison for recruiting fighters to join the conflict in Ukraine and Russia, with authorities revealing thousands of Iraqis may be involved. Meanwhile, Iraq's political landscape shifts amid ongoing instability and regional alliances.
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As of October 8, 2025, the US under President Trump is deepening support for Ukraine by sharing intelligence to target Russian energy infrastructure and considering supplying long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles. These missiles, with ranges up to 1,550 miles, would enable Ukraine to strike deep inside Russia, including Moscow, marking a significant shift amid stalled peace talks and escalating conflict.
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Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited North Korea to attend the 80th anniversary of the Workers' Party, marking the most senior Chinese official visit since 2019. The trip included high-level meetings, a military parade, and reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to strategic cooperation with Pyongyang amid regional tensions.
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South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung emphasized self-reliance in defense during Armed Forces Day, citing increased military spending and technological investments. The focus is on strengthening national security and reducing dependence on the US, amid concerns over US commitment and North Korean threats. The move signals a shift toward greater independence.
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Russia’s use of a clandestine fleet of ageing tankers, linked to its sanctions-busting efforts, is intensifying tensions in Europe. France detained a Russian-linked tanker, Boracay, amid concerns over sanctions evasion and drone activity. Russia and China deny involvement, while European leaders push for stronger sanctions and maritime enforcement.
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U.S. President Donald Trump is exploring the possibility of a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his upcoming Asia trip. While no formal plans are confirmed, regional tensions and diplomatic signals suggest a potential meeting, amid North Korea's strengthened alliances and nuclear posture.
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On November 7, 2025, North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast, following new U.S. sanctions targeting North Korean cybercrime-linked entities. The missile launch coincided with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's visit to South Korea and joint military drills. Pyongyang warned of more offensive actions against perceived threats, while Washington assessed no immediate danger to U.S. or allied territories.
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US and Chinese officials have made significant progress in trade talks in Malaysia, raising expectations for a deal between Trump and Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC summit in South Korea. The discussions focus on avoiding tariffs and addressing China’s export controls, with both sides aiming to de-escalate tensions.
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North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui visited Russia, passing on Kim Jong Un's warm wishes amid ongoing military and diplomatic cooperation. The visit follows recent high-level meetings, including Putin and Kim's September encounter in Beijing, highlighting strengthened military support and strategic partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang.
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North Korea has condemned US sanctions targeting cybercrime networks linked to its regime, asserting that these measures will not alter its strategic stance. Meanwhile, the US and allies have imposed new sanctions on North Korean hackers and financial entities accused of laundering over $3 billion to fund nuclear programs, amid ongoing diplomatic stalemates.
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Kim Yong Nam, North Korea's former ceremonial head of state and longtime diplomat, died Monday at 97 from multiple organ failure related to cancer. He served under three leaders and was known for his loyalty to the Kim family. Kim Jong Un visited his bier Tuesday to express condolences. Kim retired in 2019 after leading the Supreme People's Assembly for over two decades.
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As of November 2025, over 1,400 Africans from 36 countries, including Kenya and South Africa, have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine under false pretenses. Many are deceived with promises of jobs, coerced into signing military contracts, and sent to deadly frontline assaults. South Africa is investigating 17 citizens trapped in Ukraine, while Ukraine urges recruits to desert and seek prisoner-of-war status.
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As of early December 2025, South Korea is progressing with plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines, backed by U.S. approval for fuel access. This move aims to counter North Korea's growing military threats, including drone and missile expansions. Meanwhile, South Korea's new president seeks dialogue with North Korea amid ongoing border tensions and military provocations.
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On December 3, 2024, South Korea declared martial law under then-President Yoon Suk Yeol, sparking a political crisis. The anniversary is marked by protests, legal proceedings, and reflections on the country's democratic resilience. President Yoon was impeached and is facing criminal charges, while current President Lee Jae Myung emphasizes the people's role in stopping the crisis.
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North Korea has introduced Russian as a compulsory subject from 4th grade, amid growing ties with Russia. Over 600 students study Russian, and the countries are deepening military and educational cooperation since 2022, including North Korea sending troops to support Russia's Ukraine war.