QtrendsTrump personally sought China's help to end the Ukraine war during his summit with Xi. Iran suspends peace talks and halts indirect US negotiations after Israeli strikes on Lebanon. The US and Iran trade direct attacks as Washington strikes a commercial ship breaching blockade. Colombia's presidential race heads to a run-off between a pro-Trump candidate and a leftist rival. Ebola cases in DR Congo reach 282 with recoveries offering hope, but suspected cases emerge outside Africa.
Trump personally called for China's assistance in ending the Ukraine war during a summit with President Xi Jinping, according to exclusive SCMP reporting. A 'seasoned China hand' is set to lead the National Committee on US-China Relations, signaling a potential shift in bilateral ties. Separately, the UK foreign secretary is scheduled to visit China, adding a third diplomatic angle to the emerging dialogue.
Iran has warned that Israeli attacks in Lebanon and Gaza threaten US ceasefire talks and has suspended all indirect negotiations with the United States in protest. The suspension comes as a direct response to Israel's military offensive in Lebanon. The move significantly escalates regional tensions and casts doubt on the viability of the US-brokered ceasefire process.
The US military struck a commercial ship attempting to breach a blockade and reach Iran, escalating direct confrontation. Iran's IRGC launched retaliatory strikes in response to the US attacks. The New York Times reports a pattern of escalating exchanges, with the US also seeking changes to the Iran deal while military actions continue.
Ebola cases in DR Congo have reached 282, though increasing recoveries bring signs of hope amid the outbreak. Suspected cases have emerged outside Africa, raising global alarm. The WHO chief has called for reconsidering travel bans, while aid cuts are hampering frontline response efforts. Three Ebola vaccines are currently in development.
A pro-Trump candidate has taken the spotlight in Colombia's presidential race with a pledge to crack down on crime. The right-wing candidate pulled ahead in the first round, sending the election to a run-off against a leftist rival. The ruling party has sown doubt over the results, raising political uncertainty as the country heads to a decisive second round.