Paramilitary Expansion Shows Scale of War Preparations on NATO’s Eastern Frontier

A devastating fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, resulting in at least 44 fatalities and approximately 279 individuals reported missing. Hundreds of firefighters are engaged in ongoing rescue operations as they work to extinguish the blaze and locate those unaccounted for.

A leaked phone call between U.S. and Russian officials has sparked widespread speculation regarding the identity of the leaker and their motives, with diplomats and analysts investigating who had the capability to intercept the conversation and who stands to gain from its disclosure.

The U.K. government has announced significant new tax increases, including a levy on high-value properties and a tax on sweet dairy products like milkshakes, aimed at addressing public finance challenges. Treasury officials indicated that these measures are necessary to stabilize the economy amid rising government borrowing, which has surpassed earlier projections by nearly £10 billion this fiscal year.

US envoy Steve Witkoff provided guidance to the Kremlin on negotiating a peace deal regarding Ukraine with President Donald Trump, as reported by Bloomberg. The proposed 28-point peace plan is perceived to favor Russia, demanding significant territorial concessions from Ukraine and limiting its NATO aspirations.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is unlikely to resign peacefully due to limited options for a comfortable exile, contrasting with past dictators. His regime faces mounting pressure from the U.S., which is reportedly preparing new operations aimed at his overthrow.

Canada’s industry minister has indicated that a decision regarding Anglo American’s proposed takeover of Teck Resources will be made in the coming months, but has expressed that the commitments made by Anglo American thus far are insufficient.

Ukraine has informed the Trump administration of its willingness to sign a U.S.-drafted peace deal aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia, with only minor details left to finalize. This development comes as discussions between U.S. and Russian officials are reportedly progressing, indicating a potential resolution to a conflict that has persisted for nearly two years.

French authorities have detained the last suspected member of a four-man team believed to have stolen France's crown jewels from the Louvre in broad daylight. This arrest marks a significant step in resolving a high-profile theft that has captured public attention and raised concerns about security at one of the world's most famous museums.