Kim Jong Un hails military alliance with Russia, honours Kursk ‘liberators’

The recent Louvre heist in France has raised concerns about security and cultural heritage, while Israel's decision to mark its control areas in Gaza has sparked fears of a permanent division, contradicting previous peace agreements. This situation is further complicated by Trump's sanctions on Russian oil companies and the stalled peace talks, leaving European allies of Ukraine to gather in London amidst ongoing tensions. These developments highlight the fragile state of international relations and the impact of political decisions on regional stability.

In a significant move, allies of Ukraine gathered in London to form a 'coalition of the willing' aimed at removing Russian oil and gas from the global market. This initiative is crucial as it seeks to intensify pressure on Russia to halt its ongoing war in Ukraine, potentially reshaping energy dynamics and supporting Ukraine's sovereignty. The commitment from these nations reflects a united front against aggression and highlights the importance of energy independence in geopolitical stability.

Kirill Dmitriev, a key aide to President Putin, has expressed Russia's willingness to engage in dialogue with the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the mistakes made by previous US administrations. This statement highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the potential for a shift in US-Russia relations, which could have significant implications for global diplomacy and security.

Moscow has firmly rejected Lithuania's claims of an airspace violation, highlighting the escalating tensions between Russia and NATO countries. This situation is significant as it reflects the ongoing geopolitical strife in Eastern Europe, where accusations and counterclaims can further strain international relations and security in the region.

Reliance Industries Ltd, India's largest oil buyer, has announced its intention to comply with Western sanctions against Russia. This decision comes after the company signed a significant deal with Russian oil giant Rosneft last year to import nearly 500,000 barrels of oil per day. The move highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the impact of sanctions on global oil trade, which could lead to shifts in energy supply and pricing.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed a desire for continued U.S. involvement in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. This statement came after a meeting in London with over 20 Western allies, where the focus was on increasing pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy's approach was strategic, as he refrained from directly requesting U.S. Tomahawk cruise missiles, instead highlighting the importance of U.S. support in the broader context of international cooperation. This is significant as it underscores Ukraine's reliance on Western allies and the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are urging Ukraine's allies to enhance its capabilities to strike Russia with long-range weapons. This call for increased military support highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the need for Ukraine to defend itself effectively. The discussions reflect the complexities of international relations and the varying perspectives among European backers regarding military assistance.

The Kremlin has dismissed US President Donald Trump's assertion that the recent sanctions will have a significant effect within six months. This response highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and Russia regarding economic measures and their perceived effectiveness. Understanding the Kremlin's stance is crucial as it reflects the broader geopolitical dynamics and the potential implications for international relations.

The recent mistaken release of Ethiopian national Hadush Kebatu, who was jailed for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, has ignited nationwide protests. This incident highlights serious flaws in the asylum seeker management system and raises concerns about public safety. The manhunt for Kebatu underscores the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Ontario has decided to pause its anti-tariff advertisement campaign following sharp criticism from U.S. President Trump, who called off trade talks. The ad, which features a recording of former President Ronald Reagan, has sparked controversy and highlights the tensions in U.S.-Canada trade relations. This pause reflects the delicate balance both regions must maintain in their economic interactions, especially in light of ongoing trade negotiations.

Pakistan's recent ban on a hard-line Islamist party highlights the ongoing tensions in the country, especially following violent clashes with police that resulted in multiple fatalities. This decision reflects the government's struggle to maintain order and address extremist views, which is crucial for the nation's stability and security.

The US Justice Department is set to send election observers to California and New Jersey following requests from Republicans who are concerned about potential irregularities. This move comes amid a backdrop of heightened political tensions and accusations from Democrats. The presence of federal observers aims to ensure a fair electoral process, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in the democratic system.

Keir Starmer expressed his deep disappointment following Labour's unexpected defeat in the Caerphilly by-election, marking the party's first loss in this constituency in a century. This loss is significant as it reflects shifting political dynamics and could impact Labour's strategy moving forward, especially as they prepare for future elections.

Tonight's Premier League match between Leeds and West Ham at Elland Road is generating excitement among fans. Leeds' manager Daniel Farke has praised goalkeeper Karl Darlow for his reliability, while also discussing the recent signing of Lucas Perri. This match is crucial as both teams aim to improve their standings in the league, making it a significant event for supporters and players alike.