US guiding Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy – FT

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pledged to use Tomahawk missiles exclusively against Russian military targets, a statement that comes amid warnings from the Kremlin about potential escalation if Ukraine receives these advanced weapons from the U.S. This development is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the careful considerations both sides must navigate in the conflict.

Hamas has announced it will not participate in the signing of the peace deal proposed by President Trump, calling the plan to remove militants from Gaza 'absurd.' This decision highlights ongoing tensions in the region and raises questions about the viability of the peace process, as Hamas remains a significant player in Palestinian politics. The absence of Hamas at the signing could undermine the deal's legitimacy and effectiveness, making it crucial for stakeholders to address the group's concerns.

Russia has launched attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, targeting key regions like Donetsk, Odesa, and Chernihiv, as part of its strategy to weaken Ukraine's power grid ahead of winter. This escalation comes amid Russian officials voicing serious concerns over the potential supply of Tomahawk cruise missiles from the US to Ukraine. This situation is critical as it not only affects the immediate safety and security of Ukrainian citizens but also raises tensions between Russia and the US, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical struggles in the region.

China has issued a stern warning to the US, indicating that it will retaliate if President Donald Trump follows through on his threat to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese imports. This escalation in trade tensions is causing concern among investors, who are preparing for potential turmoil in the markets. The situation highlights the fragile state of US-China relations and the potential economic repercussions that could arise from a full-blown trade war.

China has made it clear that it will not yield to President Trump's threat of imposing a 100% tariff. This stance highlights the ongoing trade tensions between the two nations and underscores the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue rather than intimidation. The implications of such tariffs could significantly impact global trade and economic relations.

China has accused the United States of double standards regarding a potential 100% tariff on Chinese imports. This accusation comes as Beijing warns it may implement countermeasures in response to the US's trade threats. The situation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions between the two economic giants, which could impact global trade dynamics and economic stability.

The European Commission is set to support a loan for Ukraine using frozen Russian assets, as announced by Economy Commissioner Dombrovskis. This move is significant as it not only provides much-needed financial assistance to Ukraine amidst ongoing challenges but also demonstrates a strategic use of resources that were previously tied up due to geopolitical tensions. By leveraging these frozen assets, the EU is taking a proactive step to bolster Ukraine's economy and support its recovery efforts.

China has firmly rejected President Trump's threat of a 100 percent tariff, emphasizing its commitment to not yield to pressure. This situation highlights the ongoing trade tensions between the two nations, as Beijing calls for negotiations to resolve their differences. The implications of these tariffs could significantly impact global markets and supply chains, especially concerning rare earth materials, which are crucial for various industries.

Thousands of people gathered in cities across Australia to support pro-Palestine rallies, with organizers pledging to continue their protests even after a ceasefire in Gaza. The events reflect a growing movement advocating for Palestinian rights, with many participants expressing hope that a US-brokered deal could lead to lasting peace and an end to violence. This ongoing activism highlights the importance of public discourse around international conflicts and the role of grassroots movements in shaping policy.

Beijing has issued a stern warning to the US regarding potential retaliation if new tariffs are imposed. This escalation in trade tensions is significant as it could lead to further economic strain between the two largest economies in the world, impacting global markets and trade relationships. The situation highlights the fragility of international trade agreements and the potential for increased conflict.

A retired general has raised concerns about the effectiveness of Ukraine's US-made Patriot air defense systems, stating they are currently operating at only 6% effectiveness against upgraded Russian missiles. This revelation is significant as it highlights the challenges Ukraine faces in protecting its airspace amid ongoing conflict, potentially impacting military strategies and civilian safety.

Emmanuel Macron's recent remarks highlight a troubling trend in Europe, where belief in democracy is waning amid external pressures from nations like Russia and China. He expressed a sense of grief over the 'degeneration of democracy,' signaling a need for urgent solutions beyond the populist right's regressive proposals. This situation matters because it reflects a broader crisis in democratic values, urging leaders to act swiftly to restore faith in democratic institutions.

Scotland is set to face Belarus in the World Cup 2026 qualifying match, kicking off at 5pm BST. This game is significant as it marks another step in the journey towards the World Cup, with Scotland aiming to secure their place in the tournament. Fans are eager to see how the team performs, especially with the excitement surrounding the qualifying rounds.

In NFL week six, fans are eagerly following the live updates of exciting matchups including the Steelers vs. Browns and Ravens vs. Rams. The games are heating up, with moments like Trevor Lawrence's near miss and subsequent recovery showcasing the intensity of the competition. This week is crucial as teams vie for playoff positions, making every game significant for fans and players alike.

China has accused the United States of double standards regarding a potential 100% tariff on Chinese imports. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing trade tensions between the two nations, which could lead to retaliatory measures from Beijing, further escalating the conflict and impacting global markets.

The Israeli government is optimistic about the imminent release of all 20 living hostages from Gaza, expected on Monday morning. This development is significant as it marks a crucial step in the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, which also involve the potential release of 2,000 Palestinian detainees. The situation highlights the delicate balance of peace efforts in the region and the hope for a more stable future.

In a significant development, US Vice President JD Vance announced that a meeting with Israeli hostages released by Hamas could happen imminently, signaling a potential breakthrough in the ongoing conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed readiness to receive all hostages immediately, highlighting a hopeful shift towards a sustainable peace in the Middle East. This moment is crucial as it not only addresses the humanitarian crisis but also opens doors for diplomatic discussions that could lead to lasting stability in the region.

Sanae Takaichi, a former heavy metal drummer inspired by Margaret Thatcher, is on the verge of making history as Japan's first female prime minister. Her potential leadership is significant not only for gender representation in Japanese politics but also for her assertive stance on China, which could reshape Japan's foreign policy. This moment marks a pivotal shift in Japan's political landscape, reflecting broader changes in societal attitudes towards women in leadership roles.