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China’s military conducted large-scale exercises around Taiwan, signaling a sharp warning to “outside powers.” The drills follow heightened tensions involving the US and Japan, underscoring Beijing’s growing assertiveness in the region as geopolitical strains continue to intensify.
Thailand’s Narcotics Suppression Bureau has detained a Bangkok parliamentary candidate from the People’s Party over alleged money laundering linked to drug trafficking. Investigators claim nearly 20 billion baht was moved through illicit channels, raising serious questions about political accountability and the deep reach of narcotics networks.
Pakistan has summoned the UK’s envoy and issued a formal protest after a video from a Bradford rally showed inflammatory and violent remarks targeting Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan’s army chief. Islamabad urged British authorities to investigate and take action, stressing such threats go beyond free speech.
India and New Zealand have finalized a free trade agreement that cuts tariffs on most goods, boosts access to each other’s markets, and aims to double bilateral trade. The pact is expected to expand jobs, raise incomes, help Indian exporters, and open new opportunities for students and professionals.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday to push forward a peace plan aimed at ending the nearly four-year war with Russia. Discussions will focus on security guarantees, territorial disputes, and completing a 20-point framework that’s said to be about 90% ready.
