1. Trump and Putin Discuss Ukraine Conflict Amid Ceasefire Efforts
U.S. President Donald Trump held a direct conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine. The U.S. is stepping up diplomatic efforts, with Vice President JD Vance also meeting with Pope Leo XIV to gain broader support for a ceasefire agreement.
2. Russia Bans Amnesty International
Russia has officially banned Amnesty International by labeling it an “undesirable organization.” This move is seen as part of the Kremlin’s continued crackdown on dissent and independent human rights advocacy.
3. WHO Faces Financial Crisis After U.S. Funding Cut
The World Health Organization is facing a major funding shortfall of $1.7 billion after the U.S. cut its financial support. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom defended the organization’s $2.1 billion annual budget request, stressing the growing global demand for health support while humanitarian aid continues to shrink.
4. Mali Dissolves All Political Parties
Mali’s military-led government has dissolved all political parties and associations amid growing pro-democracy protests. This sweeping move intensifies the country’s political crisis and has drawn international criticism.
5. India and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire
After a period of escalating cross-border clashes, including missile exchanges, India and Pakistan have agreed to a ceasefire. The deal was reportedly brokered with help from the United States in an effort to avoid further military confrontation.
6. Pope Leo XIV Becomes First American Pontiff
Robert Francis Prevost has been inaugurated as Pope Leo XIV, making history as the first American to lead the Catholic Church. He is also the first pope from the Order of Saint Augustine, signaling a new era for the Vatican.
7. U.S. and U.K. Launch Joint Strikes on Houthis in Yemen
In response to Houthi threats to international shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the U.S. and U.K. have launched coordinated air and naval strikes. The operation, named “Operation Rough Rider,” aims to weaken Houthi military infrastructure.
8. Landslide Risk Forces Swiss Village Evacuation
Swiss authorities have ordered the evacuation of a mountain village due to an imminent landslide threat. Residents have been told to leave the area immediately as geologists monitor unstable terrain that could collapse at any moment.
9. Right-Wing Surge in Polish Election
Poland’s presidential race is heating up, with right-wing populist candidates gaining substantial ground. The current results suggest a potential runoff that could drastically shift the country’s political direction.
10. Lightning Strike Kills Tourists at Angkor Wat
Three people were killed and several others injured by a lightning strike at Cambodia’s Angkor Wat temple complex. The tragic incident occurred during a sudden thunderstorm and has raised concerns about weather safety in heavily visited tourist sites.
