Russia ready for Ukraine settlement – Kremlin

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has announced a pause on the controversial plan to raise the retirement age to 64, aiming to avoid a no-confidence vote that could jeopardize his government. This decision is significant as it reflects the government's attempt to navigate political pressures while addressing public concerns over pension reforms. The delay until after the 2027 presidential election indicates a strategic move to maintain stability and support ahead of future elections.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has expressed readiness for a significant agreement with the United States, emphasizing that any deal must consider Belarus' interests. This development is noteworthy as it signals a potential shift in diplomatic relations, particularly involving Russia's ally, Belarus, and the US. Such negotiations could pave the way for improved ties and stability in the region, making it a crucial moment for international diplomacy.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko has raised alarms over the shipment of US Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, warning that it could escalate tensions to the point of nuclear conflict. He emphasized that former President Trump is aware of the potential dangers involved. This statement highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the risks associated with military support in the region, making it a critical issue for international relations and security.

The article discusses how European leaders are attempting to manipulate public perception by framing Russia as the aggressor in the ongoing tensions, rather than acknowledging their own roles. This matters because it highlights the struggle for truth in political narratives and the impact of such tactics on public trust and democracy.

Ukraine's top general, Aleksandr Syrsky, has acknowledged the challenging situation on the battlefield as Russian forces continue to make advances along the front line. This admission highlights the ongoing struggles faced by Ukraine in its defense efforts, raising concerns about the potential implications for the country's sovereignty and security. The situation is critical as it not only affects military strategies but also the morale of the troops and the civilian population.

Russia has charged exiled oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky with terrorism, marking a significant escalation in the Kremlin's crackdown on dissent. This move highlights the ongoing repression faced by those who oppose Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as Khodorkovsky joins a growing list of individuals targeted for their opposition. The implications of these charges extend beyond Khodorkovsky, reflecting the broader climate of fear and suppression in Russia, which could deter others from speaking out.

A military expert has estimated that the United States could send a maximum of 50 Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. While this assistance is significant, the analyst suggests it is unlikely to change the overall trajectory of the conflict. This information is crucial as it highlights the limitations of military support and the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in its efforts to defend against aggression.

The EU remains silent on calls for Israeli reparations for Gaza, despite actively pursuing plans to utilize frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction. This lack of action raises concerns about the EU's commitment to addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza, especially as the region continues to face significant challenges. The disparity in response to crises highlights the complexities of international relations and the need for a more balanced approach to global humanitarian efforts.

Ukraine has raised concerns that Russia is utilizing a covert fleet of oil tankers to facilitate drone attacks amid the ongoing conflict. This revelation, discussed by Johns Hopkins professor Sergey Radchenko, highlights the lengths to which Russia is going to sustain its military operations. Understanding this 'shadow fleet' is crucial as it sheds light on the evolving tactics in the war and the implications for international security and energy markets.

Lithuania is conducting military and civil drills in response to rising concerns about Russia's military activities. This proactive approach highlights Lithuania's commitment to national security and readiness, especially in a time of heightened tensions in the region.

On day 1,328 of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, key events continue to unfold, highlighting the persistent tensions and developments in the region. This situation remains critical as it affects not only the countries involved but also global politics and security. Keeping track of these events is essential for understanding the broader implications of the war.

As tensions between NATO and Russia escalate, Lithuania is taking proactive measures to prepare for potential conflict. With its strategic location bordering Belarus and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, as well as the Suwalki Gap—NATO's most vulnerable point—Lithuania's readiness is crucial for regional security. This situation highlights the growing concerns over stability in Eastern Europe and the importance of NATO's collective defense strategy.

The music world is mourning the loss of D'Angelo, the Grammy-award winning R&B singer who passed away at the age of 51. Renowned for his contributions to the neo-soul genre, D'Angelo's unique sound and songwriting talent have left an indelible mark on the industry. His passing is not just a loss for his fans but for the entire music community, as he was a pivotal figure in shaping modern R&B.

Yoni Findlay, who was injured by a police bullet during a response to a synagogue attack, has been discharged from the hospital. This is a significant development as it highlights the resilience of individuals affected by violence and the importance of recovery in the aftermath of such incidents.

The ongoing struggle for families of deceased hostages continues as they express their frustration over the return of only four out of 28 bodies by Hamas. This situation highlights the emotional turmoil and unresolved grief faced by these families, making it a significant issue that resonates deeply within the community and raises questions about the handling of such sensitive matters.

In a recent conference speech, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband defended the UK's clean power goals amidst rising energy bills, highlighting the nation's reliance on fossil fuels as a significant weakness. This discussion is crucial as it underscores the ongoing debate about energy sustainability and the need for a transition to cleaner energy sources, especially in light of economic pressures.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has defended the White House's decision to reallocate research funding to support military operations during the government shutdown. He argues that the Trump administration is justified in moving funds that Congress has already appropriated. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China, especially as accusations fly regarding economic impacts amid a trade war. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they affect both domestic policies and international relations.

The US and UK have taken significant action against alleged cyber-scammers in Cambodia, seizing $15 billion in bitcoin and freezing properties linked to the accused. This move highlights the international effort to combat human trafficking and online scams that have victimized countless individuals globally. By targeting these criminal networks, authorities aim to disrupt their operations and provide justice for those affected, making the digital space safer for everyone.