Ukraine anticorruption investigators search home of Zelenskyy’s top aide

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where they discussed Ukraine and energy deliveries. Putin praised Orbán's 'balanced' stance on the Ukraine conflict, while the European Commission rejected Putin's characterization of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as an 'illegitimate' leader, affirming Zelenskyy's democratic election by the Ukrainian people.

Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies, NABU and SAP, have conducted searches at the office of Andriy Yermak, President Zelensky's chief of staff, amid allegations of a $100-million kickback scheme in the energy sector. This scandal has intensified public outrage as the country faces ongoing Russian attacks on its power grid.

Flooding in Indonesia has resulted in a tragic death toll of 174, with authorities reporting 79 individuals still missing and thousands of families displaced across Sumatra. The severe weather has caused widespread destruction, prompting emergency responses to assist affected communities.

Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever has criticized the EU's proposal to utilize frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, labeling the plan as fundamentally wrong and a violation of international law. He expressed concerns that such actions could destabilize financial markets and harm the euro, casting doubt on Europe's ability to fund Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Severe flooding in southern Thailand has resulted in a rising death toll, now reported at least 145, with thousands stranded and significant damage across multiple provinces. The flooding has been exacerbated by the heaviest rainfall in 300 years, prompting a state of emergency in affected areas such as Songkhla province.

Robbie Gibb's influence within the BBC has been scrutinized as reports indicate his role has contributed to a crisis within the organization, raising concerns about governance and bias. This scrutiny follows a series of high-profile resignations, including that of the director general and BBC News chief, which have been linked to a toxic culture of distrust fostered by the board's assertiveness.

Ukraine’s anti-corruption investigators conducted searches at the offices of Andriy Yermak, a top aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky, amid rising political tensions and increasing pressure from Washington for a peace deal with Russia. The specific reasons for the searches remain undisclosed, but they highlight ongoing concerns about corruption within the Ukrainian government.

Venezuela has revoked the operating permits of six international airlines, including Iberia and TAP, amid escalating tensions with the United States. This decision follows warnings from the U.S. regarding increased military activity in the region, which has led to several airlines suspending flights to Venezuela due to safety concerns.