QtrendsHegseth softens China rhetoric, reaffirms Asia commitments
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has tempered his warnings about China while insisting the US remains committed to Pacific security. The shift comes after the recent Xi-Trump summit, signaling a recalibration of Washington's approach. Hegseth also warned that the US is 'more than capable' of resuming war against Iran, keeping pressure on multiple fronts. Allies are being urged to boost their own defense spending as the US strategy evolves.
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Donald Trump is approaching his 80th birthday amid growing questions about his physical health. A White House memo from Trump's doctor acknowledges the president should lose weight and exercise more, while still declaring him in 'excellent health'. Reports of leg swelling and hand bruising have fueled public and media scrutiny. The conflicting messaging has intensified debate over Trump's fitness for office as he ages.
A dramatic rescue operation in Laos has freed four men trapped in a flooded cave, with divers also locating five villagers alive after more than a week underground. The mission continues as two people remain missing. International diving teams are navigating treacherous flooded tunnels to reach survivors. The rescue has drawn comparisons to the 2018 Thai cave ordeal.
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