Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet in Alaska on August 15 to discuss a possible Ukraine ceasefire. The White House and Kremlin both call the talks “historic,” but allies warn nothing should be decided without Kyiv at the table.
Greece’s freeze on asylum applications from North Africa has cut arrivals by more than half, but rights groups warn the policy breaches international law and may push migrants onto deadlier routes
South African scientists inject rhino horns with harmless radioactive isotopes to deter trafficking, detectable by customs scanners and demonstrated safe for the animals.
Israel may fully occupy Gaza amid failed ceasefire talks. The UK warns it will recognise Palestine in September unless Israel agrees to halt hostilities and expand aid access.
Ukraine faces backlash over alleged forced conscription after men were detained outside a Kyiv stadium, raising fresh concerns over draft tactics.
Asia’s factory output slowed in July, with China, Japan, and South Korea reporting PMI contraction due to ongoing U.S. tariff pressure. India’s manufacturing boomed, but regional outlook remains uncertain.
Beginning 10 December 2025, Australia will prohibit children under 16 from using social media platforms including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, X, Snapchat and soon YouTube. Supporters cite safety; critics warn of free speech impacts and enforcement challenges.
A U.S. judge in Florida has denied the Justice Department’s request to unseal grand jury transcripts from the Jeffrey Epstein case—citing legal protections and procedural limits. It’s the first of several similar rulings, with related motions still pending in New York.
Russia has extended conscription age to 30, plans year-round recruitment with continuous medical evaluations, and aims to reduce draft exemptions as part of sweeping updates to its military service system.
Panama has updated its offshore tax laws and launched new residency incentives in 2025. Learn what’s changing and how it could impact expats, investors, and digital nomads.