China's toilet revolution: World toilet day aims to promote clean sanitation for all

US officials are reportedly delaying the implementation of long-promised semiconductor tariffs by President Donald Trump to avoid escalating tensions with China. This cautious approach has been communicated to stakeholders in both government and private sectors over recent days, indicating a shift in strategy regarding the tariffs.

MI5 has issued a warning about ongoing espionage attempts by China in Britain, indicating that Beijing is trying to recruit British sources within parliament. The recruitment efforts involve offers for part-time work that may include writing geopolitical reports for a Chinese company, often with payment in cryptocurrency or cash. This alert highlights the persistent threat posed by China's Ministry of State Security.

The death toll from a Russian missile and drone attack on Ternopil, Ukraine, has risen to 25, with over 70 people injured. Ukrainian officials have announced plans to raise the issue at the United Nations Security Council. The attack coincided with President Volodymyr Zelensky's diplomatic visit to Turkey, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region.

NPR's international team shares insights from Yimianpo, China, where local artisans specialize in crafting Russian nesting dolls. This weekly series, titled Far-Flung Postcards, highlights unique cultural practices and the lives of those involved in traditional crafts.

Tensions between Japan and China are escalating after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Japan might defend Taiwan against a Chinese invasion. In response, Beijing has suspended Japanese seafood imports and issued travel warnings, prompting Japan to alert its schools in China about heightened security risks.

Norway conducted a test to determine if Chinese-made buses could be hacked, highlighting growing security concerns regarding the increasing presence of Chinese technology in European infrastructure. The investigation reflects broader anxieties about the implications of relying on foreign technology for critical services.

UN aid chief Tom Fletcher has described el-Fasher in Sudan as a 'crime scene' following the takeover by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). He emphasized the need for accountability for those responsible for attacks on civilians in the western Darfur region, urging that they must 'face justice.' The ongoing violence has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the area.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrived in Belem on Wednesday to attend the COP30 summit, marking a significant late-stage visit by the host country as negotiators finalize a climate deal. This visit underscores Brazil's commitment to addressing climate change during the crucial negotiations.