Myanmar's army is taking back territory with relentless air strikes - and China's help

Oil prices have surged following the US government's decision to impose sanctions on Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil. This move is part of a broader strategy to address geopolitical tensions and could have significant implications for global oil markets. Meanwhile, economic discussions are set to take place in Malaysia between US officials and China's Vice Premier He Lifeng, highlighting ongoing trade relations and the importance of dialogue in navigating these complex issues.

Cuba has successfully captured Zhi Dong Zhang, an alleged Chinese fentanyl kingpin who was wanted by both the US and Mexico. This arrest is significant as it highlights international cooperation in combating drug trafficking, particularly the fentanyl crisis that has affected many countries. Zhang had previously evaded capture in Mexico, making this development a crucial step in addressing the ongoing challenges posed by synthetic opioids.

Elon Musk's SpaceX has taken a significant step by disabling over 2,500 Starlink devices in Myanmar, targeting scam centers that were reportedly using the technology for fraudulent activities. This action comes after activists raised alarms about Chinese syndicates exploiting Starlink to deceive people globally. By cutting off these services, SpaceX is not only protecting potential victims but also reinforcing its commitment to responsible technology use, which is crucial in today's digital landscape.

Former President Trump has successfully negotiated a significant deal with Australia regarding rare-earth minerals, highlighting the importance of international alliances in countering China's mercantilist practices. This partnership not only strengthens economic ties but also enhances the security of supply chains for critical materials, which are essential for various technologies and industries. Such cooperation is crucial in today's geopolitical landscape, where reliance on a single country can pose risks.

The Trump administration is contemplating significant restrictions on exports to China that utilize US software, which could impact a wide range of products from laptops to jet engines. This move is seen as a response to China's recent limitations on rare earth exports, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two nations. Such restrictions could have far-reaching implications for global trade and technology supply chains, potentially escalating the trade war and affecting businesses and consumers alike.

Cameroon's judges have dismissed complaints regarding alleged election rigging, leaving the political landscape uncertain as results are set to be announced on Monday. This decision is significant as the opposition claims victory, highlighting the ongoing tensions and challenges within the electoral process in the country.

The article discusses a strategic approach to reduce dependence on China's dominance in the rare-earth market. By offering tariff relief to countries that participate in a collaborative investment initiative, it aims to foster an integrated market for end products. This is significant as it could lead to greater economic independence and innovation in technology sectors reliant on rare-earth materials.

In a significant shift in global trade dynamics, China has surpassed the United States to become Germany's largest trading partner. This change is largely attributed to the impact of US President Donald Trump's tariff policies, which have strained trade relations between Germany and the US. This development is important as it highlights the evolving economic landscape and the increasing influence of China in international trade.

Mark Killick, a notorious cowboy builder, has been convicted of fraud after charging customers for home renovation projects that he left unfinished. This case highlights the ongoing issue of untrustworthy contractors in the construction industry, leaving homeowners vulnerable and out of pocket. It's a reminder for consumers to thoroughly vet builders before hiring them.

The final T20 match between New Zealand and England is underway in Auckland, with England aiming for a series victory. The match has started with some exciting plays, including a strong opening from Tim Seifert. This game is significant as it not only determines the series winner but also showcases the competitive spirit of both teams, making it a must-watch for cricket fans.

In the second men's one-day international at Adelaide Oval, Australia is chasing a target of 265 runs to secure a victory against India. The match is currently in its early stages, with India starting cautiously against Australia's Josh Hazlewood, who has previously troubled their top order. This game is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit between two cricketing giants and could influence the series outcome.

In a recent statement, Trump expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of talks with Putin, noting that they 'don't go anywhere.' This comes as the US imposes new sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, Russia's largest oil companies, in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions are significant as they aim to pressure Russia economically, highlighting the US's commitment to supporting Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its actions.

Oil prices have surged following the US government's decision to impose sanctions on Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil. This move is part of a broader strategy to address geopolitical tensions and could have significant implications for global oil markets. Meanwhile, economic discussions are set to take place in Malaysia between US officials and China's Vice Premier He Lifeng, highlighting ongoing trade relations and the importance of dialogue in navigating these complex issues.

The recent preliminary approval by Israeli lawmakers to apply Israeli law to the occupied West Bank has raised significant concerns regarding the peace process with Palestinians. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled this move as 'counterproductive,' emphasizing that it threatens the fragile negotiations for a peace deal. This development is crucial as it could further escalate tensions in the region and undermine efforts to establish a lasting resolution between Israel and Palestine.