A landlocked nation in East Asia, wedged between Russia and China
Airlines are expanding premium cabins and adding routes to host World Cup cities as bookings rise in June and July. United, Delta and others are boosting capacity with larger aircraft and special routes, while some markets see premium pricing and strategic network adjustments.
Fuel shortages persist across Russia as Ukrainian drone strikes disrupt refineries and supply networks. Regions report rationing, long queues at petrol stations, and authorities are imposing export bans while exploring imports to stabilise domestic supply. Prices have risen as the crisis deepens.
Sotheby’s has sold a 67‑million‑year‑old Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton nicknamed “Gus” for $50.1 million, the highest price ever paid for a dinosaur at auction. The specimen, about 61–63% complete, was excavated in South Dakota from 2021–23; scientists are warning that private ownership will restrict research access.
The Comac C919 has flown from Beijing to Ulaanbaatar, marking the aircraft’s first international commercial route. Analysts say progress remains hampered by dependence on Western technology, certification hurdles, and slow ramp-up, even as China pushes to compete with Boeing and Airbus.