A transcontinental federation (1922–1991) that shaped 20th-century geopolitics
Rubio has urged Europe to awaken from a long slumber and reclaim classical Western values as the West stands at a crossroads between decline and renewed strength. The remarks, delivered during a multi-country NATO tour centered on Greece, underscore a push for stronger transatlantic ties, renewed manufacturing and defence, and a tougher stance on global competition.
A Chinese delegation led by Wang Yang is visiting Pyongyang to advance agreed cooperation with North Korea, including military and economic ties. The talks follow Xi Jinping’s June visit and aim to implement a blueprint for closer strategic relations. North Korea seeks Beijing’s backing while China hopes to maintain regional stability and influence.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has carried out a surprise cabinet reshuffle that has removed defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov, nominated Serhii Koretskyi as prime minister and named SBU head Yevhenii Khmara as acting defence minister. The moves have provoked mass protests in Kyiv and other cities, prompted at least one senior military resignation and raised questions about unity in Kyiv’s war effort.
Ukrainian drone strikes have damaged Russian oil infrastructure, triggering fuel shortages across the country. Authorities report production hiccups, rationing in some regions, and attempts to stabilise supplies amid heightened price pressures. The government has sanctioned imports and redirected shipments to mitigate the impact.
The new Labour leader, Andy Burnham, has delivered a nationwide address outlining priorities for restoring government credibility and easing the cost of living. He frames his tenure as a call for honesty, reflection, and a cautious path to steady governance, with a pledge to deliver tangible improvements.
Former CIA director Woolsey has died at his Washington home after a stroke, with his wife citing Havana syndrome as a factor in his declining health. He led the CIA from 1993 to 1995 amid post‑Cold War changes and the Aldrich Ames spy case.
Zelensky has appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi, 43, as commander-in-chief of Ukraine's armed forces, replacing Oleksandr Syrskyi amid protests and calls for reform. Supporters describe Drapatyi as a reform-minded leader with frontline experience who can modernise the military and empower field commanders. Critics note his track record in drone warfare and accountability.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage has struck the Moon near Einstein Crater at about 5,400 mph, carving a new crater and launching a dust plume. South Korea’s Danuri orbiter has photographed the site and released images. NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter is scheduled to image the impact next week while scientists begin analysing ejecta and crater formation.
UKRI has pulled the Lovell telescope funding, triggering a funding crisis at Jodrell Bank. Observations are due to end in March 2028 unless new funds are found. A broad coalition is calling for immediate alternative funding.
The Suzy Lamplugh case remains active as cold-case detectives review new information and follow up 30 potential witness leads. Prime suspect John Cannan has died in prison, but investigators say advances in forensics or new testimonies could still crack the 40-year-old disappearance and bring closure to her family.
A journalist describes Yerevan’s Republic Square and Dancing Fountains, exploring the Pink City’s heritage, modern life, and recent tourism growth linked to direct flights from London and broader regional appeal.
A series of historical accounts recount the first use of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, underscoring lasting global fears, arms races, and the human cost reflected in witness testimonies and later reflections.
Survivors and officials mark the Nagasaki and Hiroshima anniversaries while Japan debates its nuclear policy. Leaders reaffirm non-nuclear principles while signals of policy shifts surface amid regional tension and calls for a clear stance.
Russian president Vladimir Putin has visited Iturup (Etorofu) in the disputed Kuril Islands, watched Pacific Fleet naval drills including live-fire missile launches, and toured a fish-processing plant, hospital and school. Japan has summoned the Russian ambassador and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi have called the visit "absolutely unacceptable," reaffirming Tokyo's claim to the islands.
Cuba marks Fidel Castro’s centenary as the island endures its worst crisis in living memory, with power shortages, water scarcity, and sanctions shaping daily life. Raul Castro remains an influential figure as the regime faces mounting external pressure and internal hardship.
A Piper PA-24 has crashed into Seldovia Slough after departing Anchorage, killing the pilot and three passengers. State troopers recovered four bodies after waiting for the tide to recede; the wreckage rested in about 15 feet of water. The NTSB and FAA have opened an investigation; officials have identified the pilot and passengers and sent remains to the state medical examiner.
The Chang’e-7 mission is delaying its launch as conditions for lift-off have not been met this year. The China Manned Space Agency has given a brief statement that the launch cannot take place within the planned window after a comprehensive assessment.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham travels to Kyiv for Independence Day amid European leaders’ meeting to boost Kyiv’s defenses. London has agreed to allow MBDA to declassify information on UK-made SCALP missiles to assist Ukraine’s local production. The visit marks a coordinated push to support Kyiv and degrade Russia’s war capabilities.
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.
The UK has formalised support for Ukraine by sharing blueprints for long-range Scalp missiles, a French variant of the Storm Shadow. Kyiv is set to produce components domestically. Russia has warned of retaliation, while UK leaders press ahead with allied security cooperation and sanctions enforcement.
The UK has granted Ukraine access to declassified blueprints for British-made components used in the Scalp missile, the European-produced version of the Storm Shadow. Russia has warned of consequences and highlighted potential threats to UK bases in Europe as Kyiv deepens its defense production.
Former defence minister has admitted misleading parliament about medical records from nuclear test veterans. The MoD has published a records review, while veterans argue that blood and urine tests could prove health damages from radiation exposure. About 22,000-25,000 people participated in tests between 1952-1967 across Australia and the Pacific.
The U.S. personnel have sustained minor injuries after a late-Friday shooting during an Eswatini army anti-smuggling operation in the northeast. The U.S. State Department says affected personnel are safe as authorities investigate; Eswatini calls it a diplomatic issue.
The Tu-95 strategic bomber has crashed during a training flight in the Amur region near Krasnoyarovo. Officials say the aircraft was not carrying weapons and one crew member has survived and is hospitalized. Investigators are at the scene to determine the cause, with mixed reports from multiple agencies about possible factors.
Starship has reached orbit on its 14th test flight, deploying 26 new Starlink satellites. The mission signals a shift to high-frequency, fully reusable launches, with SpaceX aiming to reduce costs and enable new space industries. Orbitality paves the way for lunar and deep-space missions, though challenges remain in reliability and reusability.