Ukraine war briefing: Kyiv under Russian drone attacks for second night running

In Singapore, a wave of community-led spaces like Casual Poet Library and Stranger Conversations is emerging to tackle the loneliness of our hyper-digital lives. These "third places"—not home, not work, but somewhere in between—are designed to spark real-world connections, offering everything from poetry readings to guided chats with strangers. It’s a quiet rebellion against screens and superficial scrolling, tapping into a growing hunger for meaningful, face-to-face interaction.

Editor’s Note: As digital fatigue sets in globally, this story highlights how cities are creatively addressing the isolation of modern life. Singapore’s experiment with intentional gathering spaces could inspire similar movements elsewhere—especially in fast-paced urban areas where people often feel disconnected despite being surrounded by others. It’s a reminder that even in a tech-driven world, we still crave shared physical experiences.

China is pushing the boundaries of modern engineering by constructing some of the world's most ambitious bridges—breaking records not just in length but in sheer audacity. These mega projects aren’t just about connecting places; they’re feats of innovation, built in terrains many would consider too risky or remote.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about bragging rights—China’s bridge-building spree showcases its ability to tackle extreme engineering challenges, which could reshape global infrastructure standards. For everyday people, it means faster travel and economic growth in hard-to-reach areas. For the world, it’s a reminder of how far engineering can go when ambition meets expertise.

Japan is pushing its strengths in shipbuilding and liquefied natural gas (LNG) investments as it negotiates with the U.S. over tariffs. The stakes are high—these tariffs could tip Japan’s economy into a technical recession just before a crucial election.

Editor’s Note: Trade tensions aren’t just about numbers—they can shape elections and economic stability. If Japan can’t resolve these tariff talks soon, it could hurt growth at a politically sensitive time. For readers, it’s a reminder of how global trade fights ripple into everyday economies.

The Kremlin dropped an interesting tidbit about a recent phone call between Putin and Trump: apparently, Putin can understand Trump directly in English without needing an interpreter. According to a spokesperson, this cuts down on miscommunication—though it’s unclear whether this is a nod to Putin’s language skills or just a quirky diplomatic footnote.

Editor’s Note: On the surface, this seems like a minor detail, but it hints at the unusual dynamics between these two leaders. If Putin truly grasps Trump’s unfiltered words, it could streamline talks—or, skeptics might say, sideline professional interpreters who usually ensure clarity in high-stakes diplomacy. Either way, it’s a curious peek into how personal relationships shape global politics.

A deadly Israeli airstrike hit a school in Gaza City early Monday, killing at least 13 people, according to Palestinian rescue teams. The attack comes as Israel intensifies its military campaign against Hamas, sparking widespread international criticism. Meanwhile, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worsens after nearly three months of blocked aid, leaving residents desperate for food, water, and medical supplies.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another headline in a long-running conflict—it’s a grim escalation with real human consequences. Strikes on civilian areas like schools heighten fears of worsening civilian casualties, while the aid blockade pushes Gaza closer to catastrophe. The world is watching, but so far, diplomatic pressure hasn’t stopped the violence or eased the suffering.