International observers monitoring Zambia’s presidential election raised concerns over intimidation and abductions after vote counting was suspended following reports of violence at polling stations.

Ukraine launched a mass drone attack on Moscow, killing at least one person, while Russia bombarded Kyiv with ballistic missiles, according to officials on both sides.

Satellite imagery documents record-low water levels across Europe’s major rivers including the Loire, Po, Rhine and Danube, with drought conditions affecting half the continent’s land area during summer.

Indian PM Modi declared success against armed Maoist rebels but warned of ongoing threats from left-wing intellectuals and activists during an Independence Day address.

Five years after the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, multiple armed opposition groups have emerged across Afghanistan, though experts question whether they represent genuine expansion or fragmentation of resistance forces.

Ukraine struck Russian military facilities including a rocket center supporting Moscow’s satellite network, while Russia demands clarification from the US and Turkey regarding potential weapons transfers to Kyiv.

Sudan’s military leader al-Burhan announced temporary immunity for dialogue participants and ruled out restoring the RSF to power, while an African Union delegation visited to discuss peace efforts.

Turkish President Erdogan stated that Egypt could potentially join a recently signed defence agreement between Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, characterizing the pact as open to additional members.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called for reflection following the death of Cambridge professor Jason Arday, who faced intense scrutiny over plagiarism allegations before his passing at age 41.

Venezuela’s interim government says it has freed 131 political prisoners as part of reconciliation efforts following the US-backed removal of former President Nicolas Maduro.

Iran has not decided whether to resume negotiations with the United States over ending the conflict, citing disagreements about ceasefire violations and control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Major global and regional powers are increasing diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan’s Taliban government despite documented human rights abuses, raising concerns about inconsistent international pressure on the regime.