Beijing talks focus on trade, diplomacy, and ending Ukraine hostilities

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Russia is prepared to take control of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region by force if necessary, or else Ukraine's troops must withdraw. This statement coincides with ongoing negotiations between U.S. and Ukrainian officials aimed at resolving the conflict.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in India for discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking their first meeting since the onset of the Ukraine conflict. The talks aim to enhance economic ties, particularly in defense and energy sectors, amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

French President Emmanuel Macron is facing criticism from right-wing factions for proposing that news outlets be labeled based on their adherence to journalistic ethics, a move they claim could lead to an Orwellian 'Ministry of Truth.' This backlash is particularly pronounced from media entities owned by billionaire Vincent Bolloré.

France's unique form of secularism, known as 'laïcité', is a fundamental principle of the French Republic, promoting the separation of church and state. This concept, established 120 years ago, remains a contentious issue, with supporters arguing it fosters social harmony, while critics claim it is increasingly used to marginalize Muslims.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed concerns during a confidential call that the United States might 'betray' Ukraine in ongoing peace negotiations with Russia, as reported by Spiegel. This warning highlights the delicate balance of international relations amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Recent discussions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. negotiators have been characterized as constructive, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Analysts in Russia express mixed views, with some believing Ukraine obstructs peace efforts, while others suggest Putin's ambitions may hinder resolution.

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to meet with Ukraine's National Security Council Chief Rustem Umerov in Miami, following a five-hour discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. This meeting is part of Washington's intensified diplomatic efforts to establish a pathway to peace in Ukraine, amidst ongoing conflict and instability in the region.

A massive fire engulfed the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, resulting in at least 128 confirmed fatalities and many individuals still unaccounted for. The blaze, which took over 40 hours to control, has sparked widespread public outrage and raised urgent questions about construction safety and emergency response protocols in the city.