Hong Kong to start independent inquiry into deadly fire as public pressure mounts

Ukrainian philosopher Volodymyr Yermolenko discussed the impact of international support on the morale of Ukrainians living under constant threat from Russian attacks during an interview with FRANCE 24. His comments coincided with the launch of 'Le voyage en Ukraine,' a cultural initiative in France aimed at supporting Ukraine's artistic community through a series of events featuring French artists.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the necessity for increased support from the United States and Europe in facilitating negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, although he did not disclose specific details regarding the peace plan. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the conflict and potential resolutions.

Airbus has encountered a new quality issue with the metal panels on its A320 aircraft, just days after a significant software recall linked to solar flares. This latest problem adds to the company's ongoing challenges in maintaining the safety and reliability of its aircraft, leading to a nearly 6% drop in stock value in a single day.

Following a military coup in Guinea-Bissau, the electoral commission reported that armed men destroyed most of the election ballots, rendering it impossible to publish the results. This incident occurred shortly after contentious presidential elections, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

Residents of Tehran are documenting their daily struggles as the city grapples with an unprecedented drought, characterized by dried-up lakes and recurrent water shortages. In response, authorities have organized prayers for rain, and President Massoud Pezeshkian has suggested relocating the capital, a proposal that has sparked debate among citizens.

Pope Leo XIV, during the second day of his visit to Lebanon, emphasized the importance of coexistence and unity among the country's diverse religious communities, speaking at Martyrs' Square in Beirut, a historic site symbolizing the civil war divide. He highlighted Lebanon as a testament that fear and prejudice do not prevail.

A catastrophic fire at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, has resulted in at least 151 confirmed fatalities, marking it as the deadliest fire in over 70 years. In response, Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, announced the establishment of an independent committee to investigate the incident, a move that highlights the city's distinct approach to governance compared to mainland China.

Pope Leo XIV is set to pray at the site of the devastating Beirut port explosion, which claimed over 220 lives in 2020, before conducting a Mass attended by tens of thousands of followers. This marks his first international visit since becoming pope in May, highlighting his commitment to addressing the aftermath of the tragedy.