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Ukraine’s campaign against Russia’s war-related economic vulnerabilities has expanded beyond oil facilities and energy infrastructure to an unexpected new target: warehouses belonging to e-commerce giant Wildberries. In less than three weeks, Ukrainian drones have struck 23 Wildberries warehouses across Russia, killing nine employees and injuring several dozen others. Several warehouses have reportedly been forced to completely halt operations.<h2>What is Wildberries?</h2>Wildberries is a household name in Russia. Its distinctive purple-and-pink plastic bags are a familiar sight in towns and villages across the country. The company is Russia’s most popular online marketplace, with 79 million monthly users, more than half of the country’s population. Its reach is unmatched, both in the range of products available and the scale of its logistics network, which extends into some of Russia’s most remote regions.&nbsp;For millions of Russians, Wildberries has become an essential part of everyday life, offering fast and convenient delivery. In sparsely populated areas, a Wildberries pickup point can sometimes be the only significant communal facility apart from a post office and a small local shop. The company’s success has also made its founder, Tatyana Kim, Russia’s richest woman.<h2>Why is Ukraine targeting Wildberries?</h2>Ukrainian officials say Wildberries warehouses are being targeted because Russian soldiers frequently use the platform to purchase nonlethal equipment and other supplies. While the Wildberries marketplace does not openly sell weapons or products clearly classified as military equipment, soldiers preparing to leave for the war have reportedly used the platform to purchase essential gear. Their families also use the marketplace for ordinary household purchases.&nbsp;Until recently, Wildberries had a search tag specifically associated with army-related equipment, although that tag has since been removed. Products available through the platform have included tactical vests, boots and socks. Similar products are also sold by Ozon, Wildberries’ biggest Russian competitor, which has itself been targeted by Ukraine at least once. However, Wildberries is far more than a source of military-related clothing. One of its biggest-selling products last year was a $20 pair of red-checkered lounge pants. Other popular products, including hair masks, have virtually no connection to military activity.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-revokes-former-air-force-secretary-frank-kendall-s-classified-access-over-alleged-air-force-one-disclosure-1786192818200">Pentagon revokes former Air Force secretary Frank Kendall’s classified access over alleged Air Force One disclosure</a><h2>Wildberries is a linchpin of Russia’s consumer economy</h2>Ukraine’s strikes appear designed not only to disrupt military-related supply chains but also to undermine the perception of normality within Russia’s consumer economy. Punishing strikes on the company’s operations are devised to “shutter the illusion of a peaceful life in a second,” Robert Brovdi, commander of Ukraine’s drone forces, said in a statement after the Ukrainian military first destroyed a Wildberries warehouse, outside Moscow in July.&nbsp;Wildberries is an especially significant target because of its central role in Russia’s retail and delivery ecosystem. The company operates around 95,000 pickup points nationwide, helping maintain a sense of economic normalcy that the Kremlin has been eager to preserve. The company is also a major source of employment and income.&nbsp;Each Wildberries pickup point is privately owned and operated. At the same time, an estimated one million Russian sellers rely on the platform to reach customers. Many are small businesses that cannot afford traditional storefronts and would otherwise struggle to sell their products at scale.<h2>Who owns Wildberries?</h2>Wildberries was built from scratch in the early 2000s by Tatyana Kim, a former English teacher, and her then-husband, Vyacheslav Bakalchuk, an IT engineer. Before their highly publicized divorce in 2024, Kim owned 99 percent of the company, while Bakalchuk held the remaining 1 percent. A Russian court later awarded Kim full ownership of Wildberries as part of the couple’s divorce proceedings. The ownership structure changed significantly after Kim agreed to a controversial merger with Russ Outdoor, an advertising company valued at a fraction of Wildberries’ estimated worth.&nbsp;Kim now owns 65 percent of Wildberries, while 35 percent was transferred to Russ Outdoor. Critics have described Russ Outdoor as a vehicle linked to Kremlin-connected billionaire Suleyman Kerimov. Before the merger, Wildberries was estimated to be worth around $10 billion. Questions over the company’s ownership and political connections resurfaced earlier this year after its earnings report revealed that Kim’s own company had not received any dividends in the previous year. Instead, the entire 51 billion rubles, or approximately $640 million, in dividends went to Russ Outdoor.<h2>How have the drone strikes affected Wildberries?</h2>The attacks have hit small businesses particularly hard because many of them rely on Wildberries to store, process and distribute their products. The company acts as a critical logistics intermediary, receiving sellers’ goods, storing them in its warehouses and shipping orders to customers. An estimated 100,000 businesses are believed to have lost inventory in the attacks. The timing of a change to Wildberries’ seller agreement has also drawn attention. Just days before the first Ukrainian strike on its warehouses, the company amended its standard agreement to remove liability for losses caused by terrorist attacks or natural disasters.&nbsp;Wildberries has since promised financial support to affected sellers, with priority given to smaller businesses. Tatyana Kim recently said the company had already deposited 40 million rubles, or about $500,000, into the accounts of 88,000 sellers. The Russian government has also indicated that additional assistance could be provided. Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak met with senior officials and several Wildberries sellers in late July and pledged to prepare a comprehensive financial aid package. The strikes have therefore created a challenge that extends well beyond Wildberries itself. By targeting a major logistics and retail network, Ukraine is disrupting businesses, sellers, consumers and the infrastructure that helps sustain an appearance of economic normalcy inside Russia.

Ukraine targets Wildberries warehouses in Russia as drone strikes disrupt e-commerce, small businesses, military supplies and the country’s consumer economy

Ukraine’s campaign against Russia’s war-related economic vulnerabilities has expanded beyond oil facilities and energy infrastructure to an unexpected new target: warehouses belonging to e-commerce giant Wildberries. In less than three weeks, Ukrainian drones have struck 23 Wildberries warehouses across Russia, killing nine employees and injuring several dozen others. Several warehouses have reportedly been forced to completely halt operations. What is Wildberries? Wildberries is a household name in Russia. Its distinctive purple-and-pink plastic bags are a familiar sight in towns and villages across the country. The company is Russia’s most popular online marketplace, with 79 million monthly users, more than half of the country’s population. Its reach is unmatched, both in the range of products available and the scale of its logistics network, which extends into some of Russia’s most remote regions. For millions of Russians, Wildberries has become an essential part of everyday life, offering fast and convenient delivery. In sparsely populated areas, a Wildberries pickup point can sometimes be the only significant communal facility apart from a post office and a small local shop. The company’s success has also made its founder, Tatyana Kim, Russia’s richest woman. Why is Ukraine targeting Wildberries? Ukrainian officials say Wildberries warehouses are being targeted because Russian soldiers frequently use the platform to purchase nonlethal equipment and other supplies. While the Wildberries marketplace does not openly sell weapons or products clearly classified as military equipment, soldiers preparing to leave for the war have reportedly used the platform to purchase essential gear. Their families also use the marketplace for ordinary household purchases. Until recently, Wildberries had a search tag specifically associated with army-related equipment, although that tag has since been removed. Products available through the platform have included tactical vests, boots and socks. Similar products are also sold by Ozon, Wildberries’ biggest Russian competitor, which has itself been targeted by Ukraine at least once. However, Wildberries is far more than a source of military-related clothing. One of its biggest-selling products last year was a $20 pair of red-checkered lounge pants. Other popular products, including hair masks, have virtually no connection to military activity. Also Read: Pentagon revokes former Air Force secretary Frank Kendall’s classified access over alleged Air Force One disclosure Wildberries is a linchpin of Russia’s consumer economy Ukraine’s strikes appear designed not only to disrupt military-related supply chains but also to undermine the perception of normality within Russia’s consumer economy. Punishing strikes on the company’s operations are devised to “shutter the illusion of a peaceful life in a second,” Robert Brovdi, commander of Ukraine’s drone forces, said in a statement after the Ukrainian military first destroyed a Wildberries warehouse, outside Moscow in July. Wildberries is an especially significant target because of its central role in Russia’s retail and delivery ecosystem. The company operates around 95,000 pickup points nationwide, helping maintain a sense of economic normalcy that the Kremlin has been eager to preserve. The company is also a major source of employment and income. Each Wildberries pickup point is privately owned and operated. At the same time, an estimated one million Russian sellers rely on the platform to reach customers. Many are small businesses that cannot afford traditional storefronts and would otherwise struggle to sell their products at scale. Who owns Wildberries? Wildberries was built from scratch in the early 2000s by Tatyana Kim, a former English teacher, and her then-husband, Vyacheslav Bakalchuk, an IT engineer. Before their highly publicized divorce in 2024, Kim owned 99 percent of the company, while Bakalchuk held the remaining 1 percent. A Russian court later awarded Kim full ownership of Wildberries as part of the couple’s divorce proceedings. The ownership structure changed significantly after Kim agreed to a controversial merger with Russ Outdoor, an advertising company valued at a fraction of Wildberries’ estimated worth. Kim now owns 65 percent of Wildberries, while 35 percent was transferred to Russ Outdoor. Critics have described Russ Outdoor as a vehicle linked to Kremlin-connected billionaire Suleyman Kerimov. Before the merger, Wildberries was estimated to be worth around $10 billion. Questions over the company’s ownership and political connections resurfaced earlier this year after its earnings report revealed that Kim’s own company had not received any dividends in the previous year. Instead, the entire 51 billion rubles, or approximately $640 million, in dividends went to Russ Outdoor. How have the drone strikes affected Wildberries? The attacks have hit small businesses particularly hard because many of them rely on Wildberries to store, process and distribute their products. The company acts as a critical logistics intermediary, receiving sellers’ goods, storing them in its warehouses and shipping orders to customers. An estimated 100,000 businesses are believed to have lost inventory in the attacks. The timing of a change to Wildberries’ seller agreement has also drawn attention. Just days before the first Ukrainian strike on its warehouses, the company amended its standard agreement to remove liability for losses caused by terrorist attacks or natural disasters. Wildberries has since promised financial support to affected sellers, with priority given to smaller businesses. Tatyana Kim recently said the company had already deposited 40 million rubles, or about $500,000, into the accounts of 88,000 sellers. The Russian government has also indicated that additional assistance could be provided. Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak met with senior officials and several Wildberries sellers in late July and pledged to prepare a comprehensive financial aid package. The strikes have therefore created a challenge that extends well beyond Wildberries itself. By targeting a major logistics and retail network, Ukraine is disrupting businesses, sellers, consumers and the infrastructure that helps sustain an appearance of economic normalcy inside Russia.

Ukraine’s drone campaign has expanded to Wildberries warehouses, disrupting Russia’s e-commerce network, small businesses and consumer economy

Explained: Why Ukraine is targeting Wildberries warehouses across Russia in its drone campaign

The Pentagon has revoked former US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall’s eligibility to access classified information and barred him from holding ‘any sensitive position’, alleging that he disclosed sensitive information about the capabilities of Air Force One to the media. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced the decision on Friday, saying, "This action follows his unauthorized disclosure of classified information regarding Air Force One's capabilities to a media outlet."&nbsp;The move comes after reports last month, including one by The New York Times, raised security concerns about a new Air Force One aircraft gifted to the United States by Qatar. The reports said the aircraft lacked some of the advanced antimissile capabilities found on its predecessor. Kendall, who served as Air Force secretary under former President Joe Biden, denied knowingly disclosing classified information. Speaking to The Associated Press late on Friday, he said he was ‘completely mystified’ by the Pentagon's decision. "I've always been extremely careful to not say anything classified, and as far as I know I have not," Kendall said. "No one has said anything to me about what I'm asserted to have revealed and I can't imagine what it could be."&nbsp;The Qatar-donated Boeing 747 underwent a reported $400 million retrofit and upgrade before being placed into domestic service. President Donald Trump also used the aircraft during his trip to Turkey for the NATO summit last month. However, Trump returned from the summit aboard an older Air Force One aircraft as the United States launched airstrikes on Iran and Tehran attacked three Gulf Arab states.&nbsp;US officials previously told CBS News that Trump was moved to the older aircraft after intelligence indicated a credible threat against the president from Iran and allied proxy groups. According to officials, US authorities detected a credible plot to fire a missile at the aircraft. After receiving the intelligence, the US Secret Service quickly shifted to a backup security plan. People briefed on the situation told CBS News that the Secret Service recommended Trump use the older Air Force One, which is equipped with secure communications systems and sophisticated military defenses.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-accuses-iran-of-acts-of-piracy-after-attack-on-adnoc-vessel-in-strait-of-hormuz-1786190900337">UAE accuses Iran of 'acts of piracy' after attack on ADNOC vessel in Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;The new aircraft donated by Qatar was rushed into service and lacked some desired capabilities, US officials told CBS News. Trump denied last month that the aircraft swap was prompted by security concerns. At the same time, he acknowledged that he faces threats "all the time" and described himself as Iran's ‘no. 1’ target. The White House later said Trump would continue using the older Air Force One while the Qatar-donated aircraft undergoes "additional upgrades and enhancements in the fall which will take approximately one month to complete."&nbsp;In The New York Times report, Kendall was quoted as saying that the timeframe for upgrading the aircraft would not have been sufficient for "all the normal Air Force One modifications." He also said he was surprised the aircraft had been used outside the United States. Kendall reiterated on Friday that he believed his comments about the aircraft were not classified. "I've been comfortable being on the record with reporters and on national television about the Qatari 747 because I'm confident that I haven't said anything classified."&nbsp;The controversy has also raised concerns about press freedom. In response to reporting about the aircraft, the Justice Department subpoenaed New York Times reporters in an effort to compel them to identify their sources. The move prompted criticism over potential implications for journalists and their sources. After a judge criticised the department's legal work, the Justice Department withdrew the subpoenas last month.&nbsp;The Air Force has maintained that the rapid conversion of the Qatar-donated aircraft was carried out ‘without accepting any risk regarding security, safety, or secure communications’. However, the service has acknowledged that the aircraft has different capabilities from the purpose-built Air Force One aircraft currently being developed in the United States. The Air Force said ‘several highly complex engineering modifications’ were deliberately excluded from the conversion of the Qatar aircraft. Officials also acknowledged that the aircraft's exit doors were not widened and that multiple stairs built into the aircraft's hull were not installed. Parnell did not identify the media outlet that Kendall allegedly provided classified information to.&nbsp;"Safeguarding classified information is a non-negotiable duty," he wrote. “Those who violate that trust forfeit the privilege of access and any role requiring it.” The decision involving Kendall is part of a broader series of security-clearance actions taken by the Trump administration. Last year, the administration revoked clearances from 37 current and former national security officials.&nbsp;Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also withdrew security protections and clearance for retired Gen. Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, shortly after Trump returned to office. Parnell did not say whether Kendall had been referred for possible prosecution, and the Pentagon declined to provide additional details. Allegations involving unauthorized disclosures of classified information can potentially lead to criminal investigations and prosecution under federal law, including provisions of the Espionage Act.&nbsp;A prominent example came during the Obama administration, when prosecutors charged Edward Snowden, a former intelligence contractor, after he publicly disclosed a vast collection of classified documents concerning US surveillance programs before fleeing to Russia. More recently, a Massachusetts Air National Guard member was sentenced by a federal judge to 15 years in prison in 2024 after leaking classified military documents concerning the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;The case was described as one of the most significant national security breaches in years. Kendall's case now places renewed attention on the handling of classified information, the security capabilities of the Qatar-donated Air Force One aircraft and the Trump administration's approach to security clearances and alleged leaks.

Pentagon revokes former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall’s classified access over an alleged Air Force One disclosure as he denies sharing secret information

The Pentagon has revoked former US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall’s eligibility to access classified information and barred him from holding ‘any sensitive position’, alleging that he disclosed sensitive information about the capabilities of Air Force One to the media. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced the decision on Friday, saying, "This action follows his unauthorized disclosure of classified information regarding Air Force One's capabilities to a media outlet." The move comes after reports last month, including one by The New York Times, raised security concerns about a new Air Force One aircraft gifted to the United States by Qatar. The reports said the aircraft lacked some of the advanced antimissile capabilities found on its predecessor. Kendall, who served as Air Force secretary under former President Joe Biden, denied knowingly disclosing classified information. Speaking to The Associated Press late on Friday, he said he was ‘completely mystified’ by the Pentagon's decision. "I've always been extremely careful to not say anything classified, and as far as I know I have not," Kendall said. "No one has said anything to me about what I'm asserted to have revealed and I can't imagine what it could be." The Qatar-donated Boeing 747 underwent a reported $400 million retrofit and upgrade before being placed into domestic service. President Donald Trump also used the aircraft during his trip to Turkey for the NATO summit last month. However, Trump returned from the summit aboard an older Air Force One aircraft as the United States launched airstrikes on Iran and Tehran attacked three Gulf Arab states. US officials previously told CBS News that Trump was moved to the older aircraft after intelligence indicated a credible threat against the president from Iran and allied proxy groups. According to officials, US authorities detected a credible plot to fire a missile at the aircraft. After receiving the intelligence, the US Secret Service quickly shifted to a backup security plan. People briefed on the situation told CBS News that the Secret Service recommended Trump use the older Air Force One, which is equipped with secure communications systems and sophisticated military defenses. Also Read: UAE accuses Iran of 'acts of piracy' after attack on ADNOC vessel in Strait of Hormuz The new aircraft donated by Qatar was rushed into service and lacked some desired capabilities, US officials told CBS News. Trump denied last month that the aircraft swap was prompted by security concerns. At the same time, he acknowledged that he faces threats "all the time" and described himself as Iran's ‘no. 1’ target. The White House later said Trump would continue using the older Air Force One while the Qatar-donated aircraft undergoes "additional upgrades and enhancements in the fall which will take approximately one month to complete." In The New York Times report, Kendall was quoted as saying that the timeframe for upgrading the aircraft would not have been sufficient for "all the normal Air Force One modifications." He also said he was surprised the aircraft had been used outside the United States. Kendall reiterated on Friday that he believed his comments about the aircraft were not classified. "I've been comfortable being on the record with reporters and on national television about the Qatari 747 because I'm confident that I haven't said anything classified." The controversy has also raised concerns about press freedom. In response to reporting about the aircraft, the Justice Department subpoenaed New York Times reporters in an effort to compel them to identify their sources. The move prompted criticism over potential implications for journalists and their sources. After a judge criticised the department's legal work, the Justice Department withdrew the subpoenas last month. The Air Force has maintained that the rapid conversion of the Qatar-donated aircraft was carried out ‘without accepting any risk regarding security, safety, or secure communications’. However, the service has acknowledged that the aircraft has different capabilities from the purpose-built Air Force One aircraft currently being developed in the United States. The Air Force said ‘several highly complex engineering modifications’ were deliberately excluded from the conversion of the Qatar aircraft. Officials also acknowledged that the aircraft's exit doors were not widened and that multiple stairs built into the aircraft's hull were not installed. Parnell did not identify the media outlet that Kendall allegedly provided classified information to. "Safeguarding classified information is a non-negotiable duty," he wrote. “Those who violate that trust forfeit the privilege of access and any role requiring it.” The decision involving Kendall is part of a broader series of security-clearance actions taken by the Trump administration. Last year, the administration revoked clearances from 37 current and former national security officials. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also withdrew security protections and clearance for retired Gen. Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, shortly after Trump returned to office. Parnell did not say whether Kendall had been referred for possible prosecution, and the Pentagon declined to provide additional details. Allegations involving unauthorized disclosures of classified information can potentially lead to criminal investigations and prosecution under federal law, including provisions of the Espionage Act. A prominent example came during the Obama administration, when prosecutors charged Edward Snowden, a former intelligence contractor, after he publicly disclosed a vast collection of classified documents concerning US surveillance programs before fleeing to Russia. More recently, a Massachusetts Air National Guard member was sentenced by a federal judge to 15 years in prison in 2024 after leaking classified military documents concerning the war in Ukraine. The case was described as one of the most significant national security breaches in years. Kendall's case now places renewed attention on the handling of classified information, the security capabilities of the Qatar-donated Air Force One aircraft and the Trump administration's approach to security clearances and alleged leaks.

Pentagon revokes Frank Kendall’s classified access over an alleged Air Force One disclosure, while Kendall denies revealing any classified information

Pentagon revokes former Air Force secretary Frank Kendall’s classified access over alleged Air Force One disclosure

The United Arab Emirates on Saturday (August 8) condemned what it described as an Iranian attack on a vessel linked to its state-owned oil company ADNOC while the ship was transiting the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of engaging in ‘acts of piracy’. The UAE state news agency WAM initially reported that ADNOC said one of its vessels had been targeted by a missile early on Saturday. The company said the situation was under control.&nbsp;The UAE Foreign Ministry later condemned what it called ‘the hostile Iranian attack’ on an ADNOC vessel. Neither statement disclosed the name of the tanker, details of its cargo or the extent of any potential damage. No injuries were reported in the incident. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy shipping routes. Before the conflict, around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the narrow waterway separating Oman and Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-stopgap-spending-bill-to-avert-september-government-shutdown-1786188929192">US Senate passes Stopgap Spending Bill to avert September government shutdown</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UAE Strongly Condemns Targeting of ADNOC Carrier While Transiting Strait of Hormuz <a href="https://t.co/hoOAZ8D0RT">https://t.co/hoOAZ8D0RT</a> <a href="https://t.co/UQ6BqzC2Ea">pic.twitter.com/UQ6BqzC2Ea</a>&mdash; MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) <a href="https://x.com/mofauae/status/2086051852580467029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Since the US-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28, shipping through the region has faced repeated disruptions. The turmoil has pushed up freight rates while increasing security concerns for commercial vessels operating in and around the strategic waterway. The UAE Foreign Ministry said the reported attack violated a UN Security Council resolution concerning freedom of navigation. It also accused Iran's Revolutionary Guards of ‘acts of piracy’ by targeting commercial shipping and using the Strait of Hormuz as a means of economic pressure.&nbsp;Abu Dhabi called on Tehran to stop attacks on commercial vessels and reopen the Strait of Hormuz fully and unconditionally. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have previously warned that vessels associated with Tehran's adversaries could face action while passing through the strait. The Guards have also threatened vessels that fail to comply with Iranian directives. ADNOC said on Friday that it had been significantly affected by what it described as unprovoked attacks on its personnel and assets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite the security challenges, the company said it continued working to meet customer requirements in an “exceptionally challenging environment.” According to ADNOC, 15 of its vessels have been attacked by missiles and drones while transiting the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began. The company said three of those attacks occurred this week, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuries to 20 others.&nbsp;ADNOC did not identify those responsible for the attacks in its Friday statement. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, commonly known as ADNOC, is one of the world's largest energy producers. The state-owned company exports crude oil, natural gas and refined petroleum products to customers around the globe. The latest incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies.

UAE condemns an alleged Iranian attack on an ADNOC vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Iran of 'acts of piracy' and disrupting oil shipping

The United Arab Emirates on Saturday (August 8) condemned what it described as an Iranian attack on a vessel linked to its state-owned oil company ADNOC while the ship was transiting the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of engaging in ‘acts of piracy’. The UAE state news agency WAM initially reported that ADNOC said one of its vessels had been targeted by a missile early on Saturday. The company said the situation was under control. The UAE Foreign Ministry later condemned what it called ‘the hostile Iranian attack’ on an ADNOC vessel. Neither statement disclosed the name of the tanker, details of its cargo or the extent of any potential damage. No injuries were reported in the incident. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy shipping routes. Before the conflict, around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the narrow waterway separating Oman and Iran. Also Read: US Senate passes Stopgap Spending Bill to avert September government shutdown

UAE condemns an alleged Iranian missile attack on an ADNOC vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of ‘acts of piracy’

UAE accuses Iran of 'acts of piracy' after attack on ADNOC vessel in Strait of Hormuz

The Senate on Saturday overwhelmingly approved a stopgap spending bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown at the end of September, marking a rare bipartisan effort to resolve a looming funding crisis well ahead of the midterm elections. The legislation passed 90-6, with one senator voting present. It would keep the federal government funded at current levels through Dec. 11 while blocking the Trump administration from transferring funds to the Border Patrol, a provision Democrats had demanded. The agreement now faces an uncertain path in the House, where lawmakers are also eager to avoid another shutdown battle ahead of the November elections.&nbsp;The bill includes another controversial provision: a one-month delay in a ban on intoxicating hemp products that is currently scheduled to take effect in November. The provision was added at President Trump’s request and sparked a revolt among some Republicans, briefly putting the entire funding agreement at risk. The Senate's passage came more than a month before the Sept. 30 shutdown deadline, a significant departure from the last-minute funding battles that have become increasingly common in Congress. This time, the political pressure created by the upcoming midterm elections, combined with the fallout from two previous government shutdowns during the fiscal year 2026 cycle, helped senators reach an agreement quickly.&nbsp;“After three unnecessary lapses in funding during the fiscal year 2026 cycle, putting the possibility of yet another harmful shutdown off the table should be a priority for each and every one of us,” said Senator Susan Collins, Republican of Maine and the chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee. Democrats welcomed the provision restricting the administration's ability to redirect money to Border Patrol. The issue had been a central point of contention during the previous government shutdown.&nbsp;“This is an important step forward to prevent a shutdown no one wants and provide the runway we need to negotiate funding bills in the months ahead as we fight to rein in Trump’s corruption and make life more affordable for families back home,” said Senator Patty Murray of Washington, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greenland-raises-strong-warning-over-trump-linked-oil-firm-s-drilling-plans-1786182155726">Greenland raises ‘strong warning’ over Trump-linked oil firm’s drilling plans</a><h2>Senate rejects effort to remove Hemp provision</h2>The Senate also rejected an effort by a group of Republican senators to remove the one-month delay on the intoxicating hemp ban. The delay has drawn particular scrutiny because it would benefit the son-in-law of Susie Wiles, Trump's chief of staff. He serves as chief executive of companies that distribute and sell intoxicating hemp-derived gummies and vapes, including products marketed under names such as “Trainwreck” and “Blueberry Cookies.”&nbsp;The hemp provision became a major obstacle during Senate negotiations after Republican leaders, at the White House's request, added it to the temporary spending bill. The move angered several Republican senators and threatened to derail the broader funding agreement. Opponents of the delay argued that the ban should take effect as scheduled to address the rapidly expanding market for intoxicating hemp products, including beverages, gummies, cookies and vapes.&nbsp;Such products are widely sold at gas stations, vape shops and convenience stores, where they are not subject to the same regulatory framework as products sold through licensed cannabis dispensaries. “It’s no accident that these products are made to look exactly like something that a kid would want,” Senator Ted Budd, Republican of North Carolina, said in arguing for allowing the ban to take effect as scheduled. He warned that the hemp industry was seeking “to permanently entrench their intoxicating products into the machinery of government.”&nbsp;The Trump administration defended the delay, arguing that the hemp products could provide benefits to veterans and people seeking options for pain management. Senators ultimately voted 61-32 to reject the proposal to remove the delay, allowing the hemp provision to remain in the stopgap spending legislation. With the Senate vote complete, attention now shifts to the House, where lawmakers must decide whether to approve the agreement before the Sept. 30 funding deadline. If enacted, the measure would give Congress additional time to negotiate full-year spending bills while avoiding another potentially disruptive government shutdown.

Senate passes a stopgap spending bill to avert a September government shutdown, restrict Border Patrol fund transfers and delay an intoxicating hemp ban

The Senate on Saturday overwhelmingly approved a stopgap spending bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown at the end of September, marking a rare bipartisan effort to resolve a looming funding crisis well ahead of the midterm elections. The legislation passed 90-6, with one senator voting present. It would keep the federal government funded at current levels through Dec. 11 while blocking the Trump administration from transferring funds to the Border Patrol, a provision Democrats had demanded. The agreement now faces an uncertain path in the House, where lawmakers are also eager to avoid another shutdown battle ahead of the November elections. The bill includes another controversial provision: a one-month delay in a ban on intoxicating hemp products that is currently scheduled to take effect in November. The provision was added at President Trump’s request and sparked a revolt among some Republicans, briefly putting the entire funding agreement at risk. The Senate's passage came more than a month before the Sept. 30 shutdown deadline, a significant departure from the last-minute funding battles that have become increasingly common in Congress. This time, the political pressure created by the upcoming midterm elections, combined with the fallout from two previous government shutdowns during the fiscal year 2026 cycle, helped senators reach an agreement quickly. “After three unnecessary lapses in funding during the fiscal year 2026 cycle, putting the possibility of yet another harmful shutdown off the table should be a priority for each and every one of us,” said Senator Susan Collins, Republican of Maine and the chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee. Democrats welcomed the provision restricting the administration's ability to redirect money to Border Patrol. The issue had been a central point of contention during the previous government shutdown. “This is an important step forward to prevent a shutdown no one wants and provide the runway we need to negotiate funding bills in the months ahead as we fight to rein in Trump’s corruption and make life more affordable for families back home,” said Senator Patty Murray of Washington, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee. Also Read: Greenland raises ‘strong warning’ over Trump-linked oil firm’s drilling plans Senate rejects effort to remove Hemp provision The Senate also rejected an effort by a group of Republican senators to remove the one-month delay on the intoxicating hemp ban. The delay has drawn particular scrutiny because it would benefit the son-in-law of Susie Wiles, Trump's chief of staff. He serves as chief executive of companies that distribute and sell intoxicating hemp-derived gummies and vapes, including products marketed under names such as “Trainwreck” and “Blueberry Cookies.” The hemp provision became a major obstacle during Senate negotiations after Republican leaders, at the White House's request, added it to the temporary spending bill. The move angered several Republican senators and threatened to derail the broader funding agreement. Opponents of the delay argued that the ban should take effect as scheduled to address the rapidly expanding market for intoxicating hemp products, including beverages, gummies, cookies and vapes. Such products are widely sold at gas stations, vape shops and convenience stores, where they are not subject to the same regulatory framework as products sold through licensed cannabis dispensaries. “It’s no accident that these products are made to look exactly like something that a kid would want,” Senator Ted Budd, Republican of North Carolina, said in arguing for allowing the ban to take effect as scheduled. He warned that the hemp industry was seeking “to permanently entrench their intoxicating products into the machinery of government.” The Trump administration defended the delay, arguing that the hemp products could provide benefits to veterans and people seeking options for pain management. Senators ultimately voted 61-32 to reject the proposal to remove the delay, allowing the hemp provision to remain in the stopgap spending legislation. With the Senate vote complete, attention now shifts to the House, where lawmakers must decide whether to approve the agreement before the Sept. 30 funding deadline. If enacted, the measure would give Congress additional time to negotiate full-year spending bills while avoiding another potentially disruptive government shutdown.

Senate passes a bipartisan stopgap spending bill to prevent a September government shutdown, while delaying a controversial intoxicating hemp ban

US Senate passes Stopgap Spending Bill to avert September government shutdown

A Texas-based oil company with links to Donald Trump is preparing to drill exploratory wells in Greenland despite not yet receiving the required permission from local authorities. The development comes as US President Donald Trump continues to threaten to take control of the strategically important Arctic territory. In recent days, equipment intended for drilling operations was brought ashore along Greenland’s remote eastern coast.&nbsp;The move prompted Greenland’s government to issue a ‘strong warning’ that the company had not been granted permission to land the equipment. “All future logistical matters must be advised and approved by the mineral resources authority, before they are carried out,” the government said in a statement. Just two days later, Trump published another provocative post on Truth Social featuring an image of himself looming over a Greenlandic village, renewing attention on the US president’s ambitions for the territory.<h2>Greenland energy targets oil beneath Jameson Land</h2>Greenland Energy, a Texas company established last year, says as much as $1tn worth of crude oil could be located beneath the Jameson Land region. The company has announced plans to spend approximately $60m drilling two exploratory wells to determine whether commercially viable oil reserves exist beneath the remote landscape.&nbsp;However, Greenland halted the issuing of new oil licenses in 2021, citing environmental concerns. A British company, 80 Mile, had already secured exploration rights in Jameson Land. Corporate filings from Greenland Energy indicate that the Texas company plans to acquire a majority stake in the project in return for financing the exploration programme. The project nevertheless requires approval from Greenland’s authorities before drilling can begin.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-personal-lawyer-todd-blanche-confirmed-as-us-attorney-general-1786178125515">Trump’s ex lawyer Todd Blanche confirmed as US Attorney General</a><h2>Trump connections raise further questions</h2>Greenland Energy has hired Phil McGraw, widely known as Dr Phil, to produce a documentary series about the project. McGraw is a prominent rightwing former television host who previously served on Trump’s religious freedom commission. The company has also appointed a US Navy veteran as a director. The individual is involved with Golden Dome, Trump’s proposed missile defence system, which the president has described as making control of Greenland ‘vital’.&nbsp;Larry Swets, Greenland Energy’s chair and a major shareholder, has rejected suggestions that the company's activities are connected to Washington’s push for greater control over Greenland. He has said the oil project is “not related to American annexation”. The company previously faced criticism after a representative falsely told residents at a Jameson Land community meeting in June that permission had been granted to bring drilling equipment ashore. Swets subsequently acknowledged the confusion, saying: “Our enthusiasm for the project led us to communicate in a way that created confusion.”<h2>Drilling equipment arrives despite warning</h2>The controversy intensified the following month when residents of the sparsely populated area spotted a tugboat towing a barge toward the coast. The vessel unloaded about a dozen containers, according to local reports. “The goal was to get the equipment onshore at Nunap Qeqqa [Jameson Land] in connection with planned oil exploration drilling,” the Greenland government’s statement said.&nbsp;Danish investigative outlet Danwatch reported that the head of the shipping company confirmed the delivery was intended for Greenland Energy. The company has declined to answer questions about the operation. In a letter to shareholders issued on Thursday, Greenland Energy said: “Recent high-level meetings between project leadership and Greenlandic regulatory and oversight authorities have been constructive, and we continue to be encouraged by the progress being made toward the remaining approvals required for drilling.” The company added that, following those discussions, it now intends to drill one well initially rather than two.<h2>Environmental concerns complicate Greenland's decision</h2>Greenland’s elected authorities now face a difficult decision over the proposed drilling operation. The territory is semi-autonomous but remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and decisions concerning Greenland’s natural resources are controlled by its local government. Granting permission for oil exploration could expose the government to criticism because the planned drilling appears to be located within a conservation area protected under the Ramsar Convention on wetlands.&nbsp;On the other hand, rejecting the project could potentially create another point of tension with the Trump administration, with some observers concerned that Washington could use the dispute to further its campaign for greater US influence over Greenland. Despite the absence of final approval, Greenland’s government said it 'would not be proportionate' to require the equipment already delivered to be removed. It added that an application for permission was still being processed.<h2>Drilling might start in October</h2>A Greenland Energy representative has reportedly said that a vessel carrying 300 shipping containers of drilling equipment is scheduled to depart Canada on 12 September. The company plans to begin drilling the wells in October, subject to the remaining regulatory approvals.&nbsp;Jeff Landry, the hard-right governor of Louisiana who has been appointed as Trump’s Greenland envoy, has previously suggested that Greenland could be producing oil as early as next year. The planned exploration therefore places Greenland’s environmental regulations, its control over natural resources and the Trump administration’s ambitions for the Arctic territory under renewed scrutiny.

Trump-linked Texas oil company Greenland Energy plans oil drilling in Jameson Land despite Greenland authorities warning that required approval has not been granted

A Texas-based oil company with links to Donald Trump is preparing to drill exploratory wells in Greenland despite not yet receiving the required permission from local authorities. The development comes as US President Donald Trump continues to threaten to take control of the strategically important Arctic territory. In recent days, equipment intended for drilling operations was brought ashore along Greenland’s remote eastern coast. The move prompted Greenland’s government to issue a ‘strong warning’ that the company had not been granted permission to land the equipment. “All future logistical matters must be advised and approved by the mineral resources authority, before they are carried out,” the government said in a statement. Just two days later, Trump published another provocative post on Truth Social featuring an image of himself looming over a Greenlandic village, renewing attention on the US president’s ambitions for the territory. Greenland energy targets oil beneath Jameson Land Greenland Energy, a Texas company established last year, says as much as $1tn worth of crude oil could be located beneath the Jameson Land region. The company has announced plans to spend approximately $60m drilling two exploratory wells to determine whether commercially viable oil reserves exist beneath the remote landscape. However, Greenland halted the issuing of new oil licenses in 2021, citing environmental concerns. A British company, 80 Mile, had already secured exploration rights in Jameson Land. Corporate filings from Greenland Energy indicate that the Texas company plans to acquire a majority stake in the project in return for financing the exploration programme. The project nevertheless requires approval from Greenland’s authorities before drilling can begin. Also Read: Trump’s ex lawyer Todd Blanche confirmed as US Attorney General Trump connections raise further questions Greenland Energy has hired Phil McGraw, widely known as Dr Phil, to produce a documentary series about the project. McGraw is a prominent rightwing former television host who previously served on Trump’s religious freedom commission. The company has also appointed a US Navy veteran as a director. The individual is involved with Golden Dome, Trump’s proposed missile defence system, which the president has described as making control of Greenland ‘vital’. Larry Swets, Greenland Energy’s chair and a major shareholder, has rejected suggestions that the company's activities are connected to Washington’s push for greater control over Greenland. He has said the oil project is “not related to American annexation”. The company previously faced criticism after a representative falsely told residents at a Jameson Land community meeting in June that permission had been granted to bring drilling equipment ashore. Swets subsequently acknowledged the confusion, saying: “Our enthusiasm for the project led us to communicate in a way that created confusion.” Drilling equipment arrives despite warning The controversy intensified the following month when residents of the sparsely populated area spotted a tugboat towing a barge toward the coast. The vessel unloaded about a dozen containers, according to local reports. “The goal was to get the equipment onshore at Nunap Qeqqa [Jameson Land] in connection with planned oil exploration drilling,” the Greenland government’s statement said. Danish investigative outlet Danwatch reported that the head of the shipping company confirmed the delivery was intended for Greenland Energy. The company has declined to answer questions about the operation. In a letter to shareholders issued on Thursday, Greenland Energy said: “Recent high-level meetings between project leadership and Greenlandic regulatory and oversight authorities have been constructive, and we continue to be encouraged by the progress being made toward the remaining approvals required for drilling.” The company added that, following those discussions, it now intends to drill one well initially rather than two. Environmental concerns complicate Greenland's decision Greenland’s elected authorities now face a difficult decision over the proposed drilling operation. The territory is semi-autonomous but remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and decisions concerning Greenland’s natural resources are controlled by its local government. Granting permission for oil exploration could expose the government to criticism because the planned drilling appears to be located within a conservation area protected under the Ramsar Convention on wetlands. On the other hand, rejecting the project could potentially create another point of tension with the Trump administration, with some observers concerned that Washington could use the dispute to further its campaign for greater US influence over Greenland. Despite the absence of final approval, Greenland’s government said it 'would not be proportionate' to require the equipment already delivered to be removed. It added that an application for permission was still being processed. Drilling might start in October A Greenland Energy representative has reportedly said that a vessel carrying 300 shipping containers of drilling equipment is scheduled to depart Canada on 12 September. The company plans to begin drilling the wells in October, subject to the remaining regulatory approvals. Jeff Landry, the hard-right governor of Louisiana who has been appointed as Trump’s Greenland envoy, has previously suggested that Greenland could be producing oil as early as next year. The planned exploration therefore places Greenland’s environmental regulations, its control over natural resources and the Trump administration’s ambitions for the Arctic territory under renewed scrutiny.

Greenland warns a Trump-linked Texas oil company after drilling equipment arrives without approval, as plans advance to explore Jameson Land for oil

Greenland raises ‘strong warning’ over Trump-linked oil firm’s drilling plans

India is exploring the possibility of importing natural gas from Russia as New Delhi looks to widen its energy options and build greater resilience against global supply disruptions. This comes as recent disruptions in West Asia have exposed how vulnerable energy flows can become when critical routes are affected. India says it is responding by diversifying suppliers and routes. In that context, Russian gas could offer another source of supply.But there is a larger question: does adding Russia to India's gas basket make the country more energy secure, or does it simply replace one geopolitical risk with another?<h2>The case for Russian gas</h2>India's natural gas consumption is already substantial. The government says the country consumes about 189 MMSCMD of natural gas, while 97.5 MMSCMD is produced domestically. During the recent West Asia disruption, around 47.4 MMSCMD of supply was affected, forcing companies to look for alternative suppliers and routes.That is where another major supplier like Russia could matter. Moscow has significant gas resources and has indicated potential for LNG exports to India. A Russian supply arrangement could therefore give Indian buyers another option as domestic gas demand grows.There is also a broader infrastructure push underway. The government is trying to expand pipeline networks, city gas distribution and PNG connectivity, while positioning natural gas as a transition fuel for cooking, transport and industry.So the logic is straightforward: more gas sources + more infrastructure = greater room to manoeuvre during a supply shock.<h2>Could it actually make gas cheaper?</h2>Potentially, but this is where the fine print matters. Adding Russian gas could increase competition among suppliers and give Indian buyers greater bargaining power. If the gas arrives at a competitive price, industries that rely heavily on natural gas could benefit.That could include fertiliser producers, manufacturers, CNG operators and city gas networks.But a Russian deal would not automatically mean cheaper gas for Indian consumers. The final price would depend on the contract, LNG prices, transportation costs, shipping and insurance, as well as the route used to bring the gas to India.In other words, Russian gas could improve India's negotiating position, but cheaper CNG or PNG is not guaranteed.<h2>The West Asia crisis is the bigger lesson</h2>The recent disruption has shown why India is so focused on diversification. The government says India now sources crude from around 40 countries, with about 70 per cent of crude imports arriving through routes outside the Strait of Hormuz, compared with around 55 per cent earlier.Natural gas has faced its own disruption. India has already turned to alternative suppliers and routes and secured LNG cargoes from new sources. The government has also prioritised supplies to sectors such as domestic PNG and CNG, while reducing allocations to some industrial users.That experience strengthens the argument for having more than one major source of gas.<h2>Buying from Russia comes with its own risks</h2>This is where India's energy strategy gets complicated. Greater reliance on Russian energy could expose Indian buyers to sanctions and other geopolitical restrictions imposed by Western countries.On Friday (Aug 7), the US Senate passed a bipartisan bill that could hit countries buying Russian oil and gas with tariffs of up to 100%, putting major buyers such as India and China in the spotlight. The legislation, passed 86-11, has been renamed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 in honour of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. It now heads to the US House of Representatives, which reconvenes on August 31.There is another risk too: overdependence. India's objective is diversification. Becoming heavily dependent on Russia would undermine that very strategy.

India is exploring Russian gas imports to diversify supplies after West Asia disruptions exposed vulnerabilities in energy routes. But a deal could bring cheaper supply and greater bargaining power while also exposing India to sanctions and a new geopolitical dependency. WION Decodes.

India is exploring the possibility of importing natural gas from Russia as New Delhi looks to widen its energy options and build greater resilience against global supply disruptions. This comes as recent disruptions in West Asia have exposed how vulnerable energy flows can become when critical routes are affected. India says it is responding by diversifying suppliers and routes. In that context, Russian gas could offer another source of supply. But there is a larger question: does adding Russia to India's gas basket make the country more energy secure, or does it simply replace one geopolitical risk with another? The case for Russian gas India's natural gas consumption is already substantial. The government says the country consumes about 189 MMSCMD of natural gas, while 97.5 MMSCMD is produced domestically. During the recent West Asia disruption, around 47.4 MMSCMD of supply was affected, forcing companies to look for alternative suppliers and routes. That is where another major supplier like Russia could matter. Moscow has significant gas resources and has indicated potential for LNG exports to India. A Russian supply arrangement could therefore give Indian buyers another option as domestic gas demand grows. There is also a broader infrastructure push underway. The government is trying to expand pipeline networks, city gas distribution and PNG connectivity, while positioning natural gas as a transition fuel for cooking, transport and industry. So the logic is straightforward: more gas sources + more infrastructure = greater room to manoeuvre during a supply shock. Could it actually make gas cheaper? Potentially, but this is where the fine print matters. Adding Russian gas could increase competition among suppliers and give Indian buyers greater bargaining power. If the gas arrives at a competitive price, industries that rely heavily on natural gas could benefit. That could include fertiliser producers, manufacturers, CNG operators and city gas networks. But a Russian deal would not automatically mean cheaper gas for Indian consumers. The final price would depend on the contract, LNG prices, transportation costs, shipping and insurance, as well as the route used to bring the gas to India. In other words, Russian gas could improve India's negotiating position, but cheaper CNG or PNG is not guaranteed. The West Asia crisis is the bigger lesson The recent disruption has shown why India is so focused on diversification. The government says India now sources crude from around 40 countries, with about 70 per cent of crude imports arriving through routes outside the Strait of Hormuz, compared with around 55 per cent earlier. Natural gas has faced its own disruption. India has already turned to alternative suppliers and routes and secured LNG cargoes from new sources. The government has also prioritised supplies to sectors such as domestic PNG and CNG, while reducing allocations to some industrial users. That experience strengthens the argument for having more than one major source of gas. Buying from Russia comes with its own risks This is where India's energy strategy gets complicated. Greater reliance on Russian energy could expose Indian buyers to sanctions and other geopolitical restrictions imposed by Western countries. On Friday (Aug 7), the US Senate passed a bipartisan bill that could hit countries buying Russian oil and gas with tariffs of up to 100%, putting major buyers such as India and China in the spotlight. The legislation, passed 86-11, has been renamed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 in honour of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. It now heads to the US House of Representatives, which reconvenes on August 31. There is another risk too: overdependence. India's objective is diversification. Becoming heavily dependent on Russia would undermine that very strategy.

India is exploring Russian gas imports to diversify supplies after West Asia disruptions exposed vulnerabilities in energy routes. But a deal could bring cheaper supply and greater bargaining power while also exposing India to sanctions and a new geopolitical dependency. WION Decodes.

India turns to Russia for gas: Could it cut costs or trigger US sanctions? WION Decodes

Russian President Vladimir Putin could be increasingly willing to test NATO's resolve through provocative actions against member states, according to recent US intelligence assessments cited by American officials.The assessments suggest Moscow could consider a range of operations short of a full-scale military attack, including cyberattacks, sabotage, drone incursions and other deniable "hybrid" actions.<h2>But why would Putin attack NATO?</h2>The goal, according to a CBS News report citing unnamed US officials, may not be to trigger a wider war with NATO. Instead, Russia could seek to test how far the alliance would go to defend one of its members and whether US President Donald Trump's administration would respond militarily.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-s-2026-prophecy-2-predictions-already-came-true-3-terrifying-ones-remain-first-human-alien-contact-world-war-3-and-putin-s-exit-1786169922573">Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside</a><h2>Baltics, Poland seen as potential flashpoints</h2>Three people familiar with the assessments told CNN that one possible scenario involves a limited Russian attack designed to challenge NATO's commitment to Article 5. The provision states that an attack against one NATO member is considered an attack against the alliance as a whole.One source told the publication that Putin could be most likely to target the Baltic states or Poland if Russia decides to escalate against NATO. The timing remains uncertain, with the assessments reportedly placing the potential window somewhere between now and the next few years.US and NATO officials believe a failure to secure a face-saving exit from the war in Ukraine could also influence Putin's decision-making.NATO has declined to comment on classified intelligence but said it was preparing for multiple scenarios."NATO is watching, and we are ready to deter and defend as necessary," Martin O’Donnell, a senior NATO military spokesperson, said.<h2>Explosive drone found at German airport</h2>The latest assessments come as European countries report a series of incidents involving suspected Russian hybrid activity.&nbsp;US officials said an explosive-laden drone discovered at an airport in Leipzig, Germany, earlier this week was of Russian origin. The drone was reportedly found in a secure area used for cargo flight operations and was carrying military-grade explosives. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the discovery as a new security threat, while stopping short of publicly identifying Russia as responsible. Germany's National Security Council met on Friday to discuss the incident.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-white-house-ballroom-a-national-disgrace-as-court-rules-congress-approval-needed-1786148479727">Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed</a>Other recent incidents have also raised alarm. Russian drones have entered Romanian territory, while Russian drones previously violated Polish airspace during attacks on Ukraine. In May, a drone carrying explosives struck an apartment building in Romania during a Russian attack on a nearby Ukrainian port, injuring two people.European officials have increasingly warned that Russia is relying on tactics designed to remain below the threshold of conventional warfare.<h2>Trump's mixed signals on NATO</h2>The assessments also raise questions about how Washington would respond if Russia targeted a NATO member. Trump has repeatedly criticised European allies for failing to spend enough on defence and has pushed for NATO's European members to take greater responsibility for their own security.He has also questioned the scope of America's commitment under Article 5. Last year, Trump said there were "numerous definitions of Article 5" and suggested he was not certain NATO members would defend the US if it came under attack.At other times, however, he has said the United States would protect NATO allies. His administration has also considered reducing the US military presence in Europe, including weighing troop cuts in Germany, although Trump earlier abandoned plans to withdraw troops from Poland.The intelligence assessments come as Russia's war in Ukraine continues and US-led efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict have stalled.

US intelligence assessments reportedly warn that Putin could test NATO's resolve through cyberattacks, sabotage, drone incursions or a limited attack on the Baltics or Poland, potentially probing Trump's willingness to invoke Article 5. Scroll down to read. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin could be increasingly willing to test NATO's resolve through provocative actions against member states, according to recent US intelligence assessments cited by American officials. The assessments suggest Moscow could consider a range of operations short of a full-scale military attack, including cyberattacks, sabotage, drone incursions and other deniable "hybrid" actions. But why would Putin attack NATO? The goal, according to a CBS News report citing unnamed US officials, may not be to trigger a wider war with NATO. Instead, Russia could seek to test how far the alliance would go to defend one of its members and whether US President Donald Trump's administration would respond militarily. Also read | Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside Baltics, Poland seen as potential flashpoints Three people familiar with the assessments told CNN that one possible scenario involves a limited Russian attack designed to challenge NATO's commitment to Article 5. The provision states that an attack against one NATO member is considered an attack against the alliance as a whole. One source told the publication that Putin could be most likely to target the Baltic states or Poland if Russia decides to escalate against NATO. The timing remains uncertain, with the assessments reportedly placing the potential window somewhere between now and the next few years. US and NATO officials believe a failure to secure a face-saving exit from the war in Ukraine could also influence Putin's decision-making. NATO has declined to comment on classified intelligence but said it was preparing for multiple scenarios. "NATO is watching, and we are ready to deter and defend as necessary," Martin O’Donnell, a senior NATO military spokesperson, said. Explosive drone found at German airport The latest assessments come as European countries report a series of incidents involving suspected Russian hybrid activity. US officials said an explosive-laden drone discovered at an airport in Leipzig, Germany, earlier this week was of Russian origin. The drone was reportedly found in a secure area used for cargo flight operations and was carrying military-grade explosives. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the discovery as a new security threat, while stopping short of publicly identifying Russia as responsible. Germany's National Security Council met on Friday to discuss the incident. Also read | Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed Other recent incidents have also raised alarm. Russian drones have entered Romanian territory, while Russian drones previously violated Polish airspace during attacks on Ukraine. In May, a drone carrying explosives struck an apartment building in Romania during a Russian attack on a nearby Ukrainian port, injuring two people. European officials have increasingly warned that Russia is relying on tactics designed to remain below the threshold of conventional warfare. Trump's mixed signals on NATO The assessments also raise questions about how Washington would respond if Russia targeted a NATO member. Trump has repeatedly criticised European allies for failing to spend enough on defence and has pushed for NATO's European members to take greater responsibility for their own security. He has also questioned the scope of America's commitment under Article 5. Last year, Trump said there were "numerous definitions of Article 5" and suggested he was not certain NATO members would defend the US if it came under attack. At other times, however, he has said the United States would protect NATO allies. His administration has also considered reducing the US military presence in Europe, including weighing troop cuts in Germany, although Trump earlier abandoned plans to withdraw troops from Poland. The intelligence assessments come as Russia's war in Ukraine continues and US-led efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict have stalled.

US intelligence assessments reportedly warn that Putin could test NATO's resolve through cyberattacks, sabotage, drone incursions or a limited attack on the Baltics or Poland, potentially probing Trump's willingness to invoke Article 5. Scroll down to read.&nbsp;

Putin to target NATO next? US intel warns of Russian 'limited attack'

Todd Blanche was confirmed as US attorney general on Saturday (Aug 8) after a razor-thin Senate vote that put him in charge of the Justice Department despite unified Democratic opposition and unease among a handful of Republicans. Blanche, who previously served as Trump’s personal lawyer and had been acting attorney general in recent months, was confirmed by a 50-49 vote. Republicans hold a slim Senate majority, and the nomination passed despite opposition from Republican senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, who joined Democrats in voting against him.Following his confirmation, Blanche thanked Trump for the appointment and expressed gratitude to the Senate. In a post on X, he said, “I am deeply honoured by the trust and confidence President Trump has placed in me to lead the Department of Justice as our great nation’s 88th Attorney General. I am grateful to the Senate for staying late to complete this process.”“To the dedicated public servants of the Department of Justice, thank you for your work each day to uphold the law and keep our country safe,” he added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/certain-munitions-are-unlimited-others-did-trump-admit-some-us-munitions-supplies-were-limited-1786072145799">‘Certain munitions are unlimited, others...’: Did Trump admit some US weapons supplies were limited?</a>The confirmation gives Trump a loyal ally at the helm of the Justice Department at a time when the administration has faced sustained criticism over the role of federal law enforcement. Democrats argued that Blanche’s close personal and professional relationship with the president raised serious concerns about the department’s independence.Senator Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said earlier this week that the attorney general should serve the public rather than the president, accusing Blanche of continuing to act as Trump’s personal lawyer.Blanche’s nomination also drew scrutiny from within Republican ranks. Concerns had emerged over proposals linked to a fund for alleged victims of politicised prosecutions and a tax-related arrangement involving Trump and his business interests. Those concerns eased after Blanche withdrew the proposed fund and limited the tax agreement to past filings.Before joining the administration, Blanche represented Trump in several high-profile criminal cases, including the New York hush-money trial and two federal investigations led by special counsel Jack Smith. Those federal cases were dropped after Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election.

US President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer Todd Blanche was confirmed as US Attorney General on Saturday (Aug 8) by the US Senate.



Todd Blanche was confirmed as US attorney general on Saturday (Aug 8) after a razor-thin Senate vote that put him in charge of the Justice Department despite unified Democratic opposition and unease among a handful of Republicans. Blanche, who previously served as Trump’s personal lawyer and had been acting attorney general in recent months, was confirmed by a 50-49 vote. Republicans hold a slim Senate majority, and the nomination passed despite opposition from Republican senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, who joined Democrats in voting against him. Following his confirmation, Blanche thanked Trump for the appointment and expressed gratitude to the Senate. In a post on X, he said, “I am deeply honoured by the trust and confidence President Trump has placed in me to lead the Department of Justice as our great nation’s 88th Attorney General. I am grateful to the Senate for staying late to complete this process.” “To the dedicated public servants of the Department of Justice, thank you for your work each day to uphold the law and keep our country safe,” he added. Also read | ‘Certain munitions are unlimited, others...’: Did Trump admit some US weapons supplies were limited? The confirmation gives Trump a loyal ally at the helm of the Justice Department at a time when the administration has faced sustained criticism over the role of federal law enforcement. Democrats argued that Blanche’s close personal and professional relationship with the president raised serious concerns about the department’s independence. Senator Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said earlier this week that the attorney general should serve the public rather than the president, accusing Blanche of continuing to act as Trump’s personal lawyer. Blanche’s nomination also drew scrutiny from within Republican ranks. Concerns had emerged over proposals linked to a fund for alleged victims of politicised prosecutions and a tax-related arrangement involving Trump and his business interests. Those concerns eased after Blanche withdrew the proposed fund and limited the tax agreement to past filings. Before joining the administration, Blanche represented Trump in several high-profile criminal cases, including the New York hush-money trial and two federal investigations led by special counsel Jack Smith. Those federal cases were dropped after Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election.

US President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer Todd Blanche was confirmed as US Attorney General on Saturday (Aug 8) by the US Senate.

Trump’s ex lawyer Todd Blanche confirmed as US Attorney General

Typhoon Dolphin battered Japan’s southern Okinawa prefecture on Saturday, leaving five people injured and knocking out power to around 14,000 buildings as the storm moved towards China’s eastern coast.The typhoon was located about 160 km northwest of Kume Island in Okinawa at 0300 GMT and was moving northwest at around 15 kph, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. It packed sustained winds of up to 162 kph, with gusts reaching 216 kph.Five elderly people suffered injuries, with three reportedly falling amid strong winds, the Okinawa prefectural government said. Major Japanese airlines, including ANA and Japan Airlines, cancelled flights to the affected region.&nbsp;Okinawa and Amami Island in Kagoshima prefecture are expected to bear the brunt of the storm as it moves across the region.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Typhoon Dolphin is currently hitting Okinawa, Japan, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall to the region. <a href="https://t.co/OpVFkpGtsi">pic.twitter.com/OpVFkpGtsi</a>&mdash; Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) <a href="https://x.com/WeatherMonitors/status/2085587062481359089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Typhoon Dolphin pounds Okinawa, Japan with fierce winds and dangerous conditions. Evacuation orders issued for nearly 260,000 people and 500+ flights canceled. <a href="https://t.co/upTxtB2EtJ">https://t.co/upTxtB2EtJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/JjTaTMFy0c">pic.twitter.com/JjTaTMFy0c</a>&mdash; Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) <a href="https://x.com/WeatherMonitors/status/2085591148127756399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

China is now preparing for Dolphin’s arrival, with forecasters expecting the typhoon to make landfall between late Sunday and early Monday along the eastern and southern coast. The likely landfall zone stretches from Zhejiang province’s Zhoushan city to Fuding in Fujian province.Also read | <a href="Delhi logs wettest first week of August in 15 years; IMD issues yellow alert">Delhi logs wettest first week of August in 15 years; IMD issues yellow alert</a>The storm could bring winds of up to 101 mph near its centre and unleash heavy rainfall across eastern China through August 12. Parts of eastern Zhejiang could receive more than 600 mm of rain.Zhejiang has raised its coastal typhoon alert to the highest level, suspended port operations and halted 162 passenger ferry routes. Ningbo Lishe International Airport will stop operations late Saturday and cancel all flights on Sunday. Shanghai’s Yangshan port has also been cleared of vessels, while some rail services in the Yangtze River Delta are set to be suspended.Taiwan cancelled 63 international flights as heavy rain was forecast in the north.The storm has also added to tensions across the Taiwan Strait. Beijing ordered ships transiting the strategic waterway to follow its traffic-control instructions, prompting Taipei to call the move “ridiculous” and reject China’s authority to restrict passage through what it considers international waters.

Typhoon Dolphin battered Japan’s Okinawa, injuring five and cutting power to 14,000 buildings, as China shut ports and ferry routes ahead of the storm’s expected landfall.

Typhoon Dolphin battered Japan’s southern Okinawa prefecture on Saturday, leaving five people injured and knocking out power to around 14,000 buildings as the storm moved towards China’s eastern coast. The typhoon was located about 160 km northwest of Kume Island in Okinawa at 0300 GMT and was moving northwest at around 15 kph, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. It packed sustained winds of up to 162 kph, with gusts reaching 216 kph. Five elderly people suffered injuries, with three reportedly falling amid strong winds, the Okinawa prefectural government said. Major Japanese airlines, including ANA and Japan Airlines, cancelled flights to the affected region. Okinawa and Amami Island in Kagoshima prefecture are expected to bear the brunt of the storm as it moves across the region.

Typhoon Dolphin battered Japan’s Okinawa, injuring five and cutting power to 14,000 buildings, as China shut ports and ferry routes ahead of the storm’s expected landfall.

WATCH | Typhoon Dolphin batters Japan as China braces for landfall

Colombia's new President Abelardo de la Espriella has promised a sweeping crackdown on armed groups and drug trafficking, declaring that there will be "no room" for forces threatening the country's stability.In his first major address after taking office on Friday (Aug 7), the 48-year-old leader told thousands of soldiers in Cali that his government would "relentlessly defeat narco-terrorism" and abandon dialogue with armed groups."The option of dialogue is completely exhausted," de la Espriella said, drawing a sharp contrast with the previous government's attempts to negotiate with guerrillas and other armed groups.<h2>A sharp turn to the right</h2>De la Espriella's presidency marks a major political shift for Colombia after four years under its first leftist government. The US-backed millionaire has positioned himself as a strong security leader and has promised to work closely with Washington under President Donald Trump.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-ordinary-indian-users-have-to-pay-for-upi-nirmala-sitharaman-breaks-silence-on-congress-mdr-fee-claim-1786079378525">Will ordinary Indian users have to pay for UPI? Nirmala Sitharaman breaks silence on Congress' MDR fee claim</a>He has proposed allowing US troops to operate from Colombian soil, targeting cocaine laboratories in the jungle, building "mega-prisons" and reducing the size of the state.The president, who holds both Colombian and US citizenship, has also made a military salute part of his public image.<h2>Why Cali was chosen for the inauguration</h2>De la Espriella broke with tradition by holding his inauguration in Cali, the country's salsa capital, rather than in the capital Bogota. The city has experienced several guerrilla attacks in recent years, prompting authorities to deploy around 11,000 troops and an anti-drone system for the ceremony.The event was attended by several prominent right-wing figures, including Argentine President Javier Milei and Trump's acting attorney general, Todd Blanche. FIFA President Gianni Infantino was also among the guests.De la Espriella's leftist predecessor, Gustavo Petro, did not attend the ceremony.<h2>A narrow victory, divided Congress</h2>De la Espriella won the presidential election by less than one percentage point, ending four years of left-wing rule.His government, however, faces an immediate political challenge. He does not control a majority in Congress and will have to work with a divided legislature to implement his agenda.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-iran-s-crypto-network-after-strait-of-hormuz-attacks-offers-15m-bounty-for-intel-on-irgc-finance-1786150050092">US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance</a><h2>De la Espriella’s ‘Plan Colombia II’</h2>The new president has vowed to eliminate coca crops used to produce cocaine "by all means" and has advocated fracking despite environmental concerns.He also wants to cut taxes for wealthy Colombians and build a closer military partnership with the US and Israel to fight guerrilla groups.His proposed "Plan Colombia II" takes its name from the original US-backed programme launched in the 2000s to combat drug cartels and leftist armed groups.The earlier initiative helped weaken major armed groups but was also accompanied by allegations of serious human rights abuses.

Colombia's new President Abelardo de la Espriella has vowed a sweeping crackdown on armed groups and drug trafficking, declaring dialogue "completely exhausted" and promising a US-backed "Plan Colombia II" against narco-terrorism.

Colombia's new President Abelardo de la Espriella has promised a sweeping crackdown on armed groups and drug trafficking, declaring that there will be "no room" for forces threatening the country's stability. In his first major address after taking office on Friday (Aug 7), the 48-year-old leader told thousands of soldiers in Cali that his government would "relentlessly defeat narco-terrorism" and abandon dialogue with armed groups. "The option of dialogue is completely exhausted," de la Espriella said, drawing a sharp contrast with the previous government's attempts to negotiate with guerrillas and other armed groups. A sharp turn to the right De la Espriella's presidency marks a major political shift for Colombia after four years under its first leftist government. The US-backed millionaire has positioned himself as a strong security leader and has promised to work closely with Washington under President Donald Trump. Also read | Will ordinary Indian users have to pay for UPI? Nirmala Sitharaman breaks silence on Congress' MDR fee claim He has proposed allowing US troops to operate from Colombian soil, targeting cocaine laboratories in the jungle, building "mega-prisons" and reducing the size of the state. The president, who holds both Colombian and US citizenship, has also made a military salute part of his public image. Why Cali was chosen for the inauguration De la Espriella broke with tradition by holding his inauguration in Cali, the country's salsa capital, rather than in the capital Bogota. The city has experienced several guerrilla attacks in recent years, prompting authorities to deploy around 11,000 troops and an anti-drone system for the ceremony. The event was attended by several prominent right-wing figures, including Argentine President Javier Milei and Trump's acting attorney general, Todd Blanche. FIFA President Gianni Infantino was also among the guests. De la Espriella's leftist predecessor, Gustavo Petro, did not attend the ceremony. A narrow victory, divided Congress De la Espriella won the presidential election by less than one percentage point, ending four years of left-wing rule. His government, however, faces an immediate political challenge. He does not control a majority in Congress and will have to work with a divided legislature to implement his agenda. Also read | US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance De la Espriella’s ‘Plan Colombia II’ The new president has vowed to eliminate coca crops used to produce cocaine "by all means" and has advocated fracking despite environmental concerns. He also wants to cut taxes for wealthy Colombians and build a closer military partnership with the US and Israel to fight guerrilla groups. His proposed "Plan Colombia II" takes its name from the original US-backed programme launched in the 2000s to combat drug cartels and leftist armed groups. The earlier initiative helped weaken major armed groups but was also accompanied by allegations of serious human rights abuses.

Colombia's new President Abelardo de la Espriella has vowed a sweeping crackdown on armed groups and drug trafficking, declaring dialogue "completely exhausted" and promising a US-backed "Plan Colombia II" against narco-terrorism.

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

The United States has imposed sanctions on six entities and one individual linked to what it described as Iran's illicit digital asset network, accusing Tehran of using cryptocurrency channels to move billions of dollars and maintain international financial connections. The move comes days after Iran allegedly attacked commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>Two crypto exchanges targeted</h2>US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the sanctions target two major digital asset exchanges that Washington claims are used by the Iranian regime to maintain access to the international financial system.The measures also target what the State Department described as the ringleader of a network involved in illicit digital asset activity, along with companies linked to him across multiple jurisdictions.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-attack-coming-wait-never-mind-iran-mocks-us-theatre-diplomacy-rejects-trump-s-claim-of-hormuz-progress-1786068935549">'Massive attack coming... wait, never mind': Iran mocks US 'theatre diplomacy,' rejects Trump's claim of Hormuz progress</a>"The Iranian regime launders billions of dollars by moving illicit funds through various channels, including digital asset exchanges," Pigott said.He added that Washington would continue working to cut off the financial resources Iran needs to threaten neighbouring countries, support terrorism and advance its nuclear programme.<h2>$15 million reward for intel on Iran’s IRGC financial network</h2>Alongside the sanctions, the State Department said its Rewards for Justice programme is offering up to $15 million for information that helps disrupt the financial mechanisms of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated branches.The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13902, which targets individuals and entities operating in Iran's financial and petroleum sectors, and Executive Order 13224, a counterterrorism authority used against terrorism financing networks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-strait-of-hormuz-remains-open-despite-unwarranted-iranian-aggression-as-report-suggest-deal-to-reopen-vital-waterway-close-1785897369267">US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close</a><h2>Move follows Strait of Hormuz attacks</h2>Washington said the latest sanctions were directly linked to Iran's attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The waterway has become a major flashpoint in the confrontation between the two countries, with its security and reopening also emerging as a key issue in discussions between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;The sanctions come just a day after President Donald Trump said he believed the conflict with Iran could end “pretty soon.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The US has sanctioned six entities and one individual over an alleged Iranian crypto network used to move billions of dollars. Washington also offered up to $15 million for information on the IRGC's financial networks.

The United States has imposed sanctions on six entities and one individual linked to what it described as Iran's illicit digital asset network, accusing Tehran of using cryptocurrency channels to move billions of dollars and maintain international financial connections. The move comes days after Iran allegedly attacked commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Two crypto exchanges targeted US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the sanctions target two major digital asset exchanges that Washington claims are used by the Iranian regime to maintain access to the international financial system. The measures also target what the State Department described as the ringleader of a network involved in illicit digital asset activity, along with companies linked to him across multiple jurisdictions. Also read | 'Massive attack coming... wait, never mind': Iran mocks US 'theatre diplomacy,' rejects Trump's claim of Hormuz progress "The Iranian regime launders billions of dollars by moving illicit funds through various channels, including digital asset exchanges," Pigott said. He added that Washington would continue working to cut off the financial resources Iran needs to threaten neighbouring countries, support terrorism and advance its nuclear programme. $15 million reward for intel on Iran’s IRGC financial network Alongside the sanctions, the State Department said its Rewards for Justice programme is offering up to $15 million for information that helps disrupt the financial mechanisms of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated branches. The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13902, which targets individuals and entities operating in Iran's financial and petroleum sectors, and Executive Order 13224, a counterterrorism authority used against terrorism financing networks. Also read | US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close Move follows Strait of Hormuz attacks Washington said the latest sanctions were directly linked to Iran's attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The waterway has become a major flashpoint in the confrontation between the two countries, with its security and reopening also emerging as a key issue in discussions between Washington and Tehran. The sanctions come just a day after President Donald Trump said he believed the conflict with Iran could end “pretty soon.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The US has sanctioned six entities and one individual over an alleged Iranian crypto network used to move billions of dollars. Washington also offered up to $15 million for information on the IRGC's financial networks.

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

US President Donald Trump has reacted furiously after a federal appeals court upheld a ruling blocking construction of his planned White House ballroom, calling the decision "horrendous, politically motivated, and unlawful" and vowing to take the fight to the Supreme Court.The 2-1 decision on Friday (Aug 7), the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit upheld an order that blocks construction and ruled that the project requires explicit approval from Congress. This sets up another potential battle before the Supreme Court over how far presidential authority extends in making major changes to the White House complex. The appeals court has paused its own ruling for two weeks, giving Trump time to ask the Supreme Court to intervene.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-appeals-court-halts-trump-s-400-million-white-house-ballroom-project-construction-1786120405850">US appeals court halts Trump's $400mn White House Ballroom project construction</a><h2>Trump calls ruling ‘horrendous’</h2>Trump reacted angrily to the decision, describing it as "horrendous, politically motivated, and unlawful." The president also said he would immediately challenge the ruling before the Supreme Court. In another post on Truth Social, Trump slammed the judges appointed by his predecessor. Resorting to the nicknames he has given former President Barack Obama and Joe Biden, he slammed the “two Judges, one appointed by Barack Hussein Obama, the other by Sleepy Joe Biden” and called the decision a "National Security Threat at the highest level" and a "National Disgrace."

The split among the judges has also drawn attention. The two judges who backed the ruling were appointed by Democratic presidents, while the dissenting judge was nominated by Trump.<h2>Court says Congress must approve project</h2>The appeals court agreed with a lower court that construction of such a major addition to the White House complex cannot proceed without congressional authorisation.The judges in the majority stressed that their ruling was not about whether the ballroom itself was desirable. "This holding has nothing at all to do with whether the proposed ballroom is desirable, or not, as a matter of policy," they wrote.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-may-force-more-visa-applicants-to-make-social-media-accounts-public-under-trump-s-new-plan-1786065871292">US may force more visa applicants to make social media accounts public under Trump's new plan</a> Instead, they said the issue was whether the administration could proceed with construction while the legal challenge was being heard without first obtaining approval from Congress.Under the lower court's order, work could continue on only a limited number of structures, including underground construction.<h2>Trump demolished the East Wing for the ballroom</h2>Trump had promoted the ballroom as a way to address the White House's lack of space for large events and state dinners. Construction began last year after the historic East Wing of the White House was demolished.Work has since progressed on an underground complex, with photographs showing concrete structures beginning to rise above ground.Trump has also increasingly pointed to security infrastructure, including an underground military bunker, as part of the justification for the project.<h2>Ballroom cost has already soared</h2>Trump has repeatedly said the ballroom would be privately financed. However, media reports have indicated that taxpayer money is also being used.The White House initially put the cost at around $200 million, before raising the estimate to $400 million. Reports in June suggested the final cost could reach as much as $600 million.The ballroom is part of Trump's broader effort to leave a visible mark on Washington before his term ends in 2029. His other proposed projects include changes to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and other parks, as well as plans for a huge arch. Several of those projects have also faced legal challenges. The White House ballroom case, however, could become the first of them to reach the Supreme Court.

Trump's plan for a massive White House ballroom has suffered another legal setback after an appeals court ruled that the project needs explicit congressional approval. Trump called the decision "horrendous" and a "National Security Threat."

US President Donald Trump has reacted furiously after a federal appeals court upheld a ruling blocking construction of his planned White House ballroom, calling the decision "horrendous, politically motivated, and unlawful" and vowing to take the fight to the Supreme Court. The 2-1 decision on Friday (Aug 7), the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit upheld an order that blocks construction and ruled that the project requires explicit approval from Congress. This sets up another potential battle before the Supreme Court over how far presidential authority extends in making major changes to the White House complex. The appeals court has paused its own ruling for two weeks, giving Trump time to ask the Supreme Court to intervene. Also read | US appeals court halts Trump's $400mn White House Ballroom project construction Trump calls ruling ‘horrendous’ Trump reacted angrily to the decision, describing it as "horrendous, politically motivated, and unlawful." The president also said he would immediately challenge the ruling before the Supreme Court. In another post on Truth Social, Trump slammed the judges appointed by his predecessor. Resorting to the nicknames he has given former President Barack Obama and Joe Biden, he slammed the “two Judges, one appointed by Barack Hussein Obama, the other by Sleepy Joe Biden” and called the decision a "National Security Threat at the highest level" and a "National Disgrace."

Trump's plan for a massive White House ballroom has suffered another legal setback after an appeals court ruled that the project needs explicit congressional approval. Trump called the decision "horrendous" and a "National Security Threat."

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

Spain announced on Friday that it would introduce temporary border checks on travellers arriving from Italy, escalating a dispute between the two European countries over migration controls.&nbsp;The checks will begin at midnight on Saturday and remain in place until September 7, Spain's interior ministry said. The ministry said the decision came "amid the persistent irregular migration pressure" facing Italy.&nbsp;The move followed Italy's decision to impose similar measures on travellers from Spain after a mass influx of migrants into Ceuta. Spain had earlier warned that it could take countermeasures if Rome did not quickly remove its checks. Italy rejected the demand.&nbsp;The dispute has created an unusual rift between two European Union and NATO allies. It began after tens of thousands of people crossed from Morocco into Spain's North African territory of Ceuta on July 30 and 31 in an unprecedented and deadly rush.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/60-000-migrants-flood-spain-s-ceuta-eu-calls-it-unacceptable-trump-warns-us-1785507085760">60,000 migrants from Morocco flood Spain's Ceuta, EU calls influx unacceptable, Trump warns US</a><h2>Ceuta crossings trigger crisis</h2>The sudden influx of around 60,000 migrants from Morocco into Ceuta has created a major challenge for Spain and raised concerns across the European Union.&nbsp;The number of arrivals was particularly significant compared with Ceuta's population of around 80,000. Local regional president Juan Jesus Vivas estimated that nearly 60,000 people entered the Spanish territory over two or three days.&nbsp;Madrid responded by increasing security in the enclave. Spain deployed troops and additional police personnel, along with divers, drones and boats.&nbsp;Most of the migrants who entered the territory have since returned to Morocco. At least 67 people died during the latest surge in crossings.&nbsp;The scale of the movement also prompted concern among EU members. Leaders from 22 of the bloc's 27 countries called for urgent talks between EU interior ministers to coordinate a response and prevent further uncontrolled crossings.&nbsp;<h2>Italy and Spain clash over border controls</h2>Italy took a tough position following the arrivals and called for Spain to be suspended from the Schengen zone. Rome also imposed a one-month suspension of visa-free travel under the Schengen arrangement with Spain.&nbsp;Madrid strongly criticised the decision and described it as "unfair, contrary to the EU's interests and discriminatory for the Spanish population".&nbsp;Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares called the move "a torpedo fired at the hull of European unity.""We urge the government of Italy to rectify, put an end to the checks and treat Spaniards like other European citizens," the Spanish government said.&nbsp;Spain also warned that it would take "proportional measures" by Sunday if Italy did not withdraw its border checks.&nbsp;With Rome refusing to immediately lift the measures, Madrid announced its own temporary checks, bringing the migration dispute into a wider confrontation over movement within Europe.

Spain has imposed temporary border checks on travellers from Italy after Rome introduced similar measures following the mass migrant influx into Ceuta, escalating tensions between the two EU allies.

Spain announced on Friday that it would introduce temporary border checks on travellers arriving from Italy, escalating a dispute between the two European countries over migration controls. The checks will begin at midnight on Saturday and remain in place until September 7, Spain's interior ministry said. The ministry said the decision came "amid the persistent irregular migration pressure" facing Italy. The move followed Italy's decision to impose similar measures on travellers from Spain after a mass influx of migrants into Ceuta. Spain had earlier warned that it could take countermeasures if Rome did not quickly remove its checks. Italy rejected the demand. The dispute has created an unusual rift between two European Union and NATO allies. It began after tens of thousands of people crossed from Morocco into Spain's North African territory of Ceuta on July 30 and 31 in an unprecedented and deadly rush. Also Read: 60,000 migrants from Morocco flood Spain's Ceuta, EU calls influx unacceptable, Trump warns US Ceuta crossings trigger crisis The sudden influx of around 60,000 migrants from Morocco into Ceuta has created a major challenge for Spain and raised concerns across the European Union. The number of arrivals was particularly significant compared with Ceuta's population of around 80,000. Local regional president Juan Jesus Vivas estimated that nearly 60,000 people entered the Spanish territory over two or three days. Madrid responded by increasing security in the enclave. Spain deployed troops and additional police personnel, along with divers, drones and boats. Most of the migrants who entered the territory have since returned to Morocco. At least 67 people died during the latest surge in crossings. The scale of the movement also prompted concern among EU members. Leaders from 22 of the bloc's 27 countries called for urgent talks between EU interior ministers to coordinate a response and prevent further uncontrolled crossings. Italy and Spain clash over border controls Italy took a tough position following the arrivals and called for Spain to be suspended from the Schengen zone. Rome also imposed a one-month suspension of visa-free travel under the Schengen arrangement with Spain. Madrid strongly criticised the decision and described it as "unfair, contrary to the EU's interests and discriminatory for the Spanish population". Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares called the move "a torpedo fired at the hull of European unity." "We urge the government of Italy to rectify, put an end to the checks and treat Spaniards like other European citizens," the Spanish government said. Spain also warned that it would take "proportional measures" by Sunday if Italy did not withdraw its border checks. With Rome refusing to immediately lift the measures, Madrid announced its own temporary checks, bringing the migration dispute into a wider confrontation over movement within Europe.

Spain has imposed temporary border checks on travellers from Italy after Rome introduced similar measures following the mass migrant influx into Ceuta, escalating tensions between the two EU allies.

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Russia's Ministry of Defence has merged five irregular combat formations into a single new brigade, Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), in a move that Ukrainian officials and independent monitors say formalises a years-long practice of pushing Ukrainian prisoners of war into frontline combat roles.The Russian MoD's Volunteer Corps announced this week that it had folded the Maxim Krivonos and Alexei Berest battalions, along with the Alexander Matrosov, Martyn Pushkar, and Slobodskoy detachments, into a single unit it calls the "first Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade." ISW, which tracks daily developments in the war, reported the consolidation on August 6, noting that all five constituent units are believed to draw their manpower from Ukrainian POWs and soldiers who allegedly defected to Russian forces. Notably, Russian military bloggers did not mention that the brigade depends on captured Ukrainian personnel units officially, and maintains the "volunteer" branding. But ISW has reported that they were Prisoners of War.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-oman-strait-of-hormuz-framework-agreement-1786121233333">Iran says Hormuz framework agreed with Oman, final deal pending</a>According to ISW, this is not Russia's first attempt at building combat units from captured soldiers. It reportedly first documented efforts to coerce Ukrainian POWs into military service in November 2022, within the war's first year. A more organised version of the practice surfaced in December 2023, when Russian-backed authorities in the self-proclaimed "Donetsk People's Republic" stood up the "Bogdan Khmelnitsky" battalion, composed of Ukrainian captives, under the "Kaskad" formation in western Donetsk region. The newly announced brigade appears to represent a scaling-up of that approach, consolidating scattered POW-linked units under a single, brigade-level command structure.The Geneva Convention relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War prohibits a detaining power from forcing captured soldiers to take part in military operations, and separately bars holding or employing POWs under conditions that expose them to direct combat. Kyiv has taken steps to hold Russian officials accountable for the treatment of captured soldiers, including sanctions against Russian judges accused of handing down staged convictions to Ukrainian POWs. Ukrainian officials say thousands of Ukrainian personnel remain in Russian captivity, with abuse against them well documented by international monitors.

Russia has merged five irregular combat formations into a new brigade reportedly made up of Ukrainian POWs and defectors, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

Russia's Ministry of Defence has merged five irregular combat formations into a single new brigade, Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), in a move that Ukrainian officials and independent monitors say formalises a years-long practice of pushing Ukrainian prisoners of war into frontline combat roles. The Russian MoD's Volunteer Corps announced this week that it had folded the Maxim Krivonos and Alexei Berest battalions, along with the Alexander Matrosov, Martyn Pushkar, and Slobodskoy detachments, into a single unit it calls the "first Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade." ISW, which tracks daily developments in the war, reported the consolidation on August 6, noting that all five constituent units are believed to draw their manpower from Ukrainian POWs and soldiers who allegedly defected to Russian forces. Notably, Russian military bloggers did not mention that the brigade depends on captured Ukrainian personnel units officially, and maintains the "volunteer" branding. But ISW has reported that they were Prisoners of War. Also Read: Iran says Hormuz framework agreed with Oman, final deal pending According to ISW, this is not Russia's first attempt at building combat units from captured soldiers. It reportedly first documented efforts to coerce Ukrainian POWs into military service in November 2022, within the war's first year. A more organised version of the practice surfaced in December 2023, when Russian-backed authorities in the self-proclaimed "Donetsk People's Republic" stood up the "Bogdan Khmelnitsky" battalion, composed of Ukrainian captives, under the "Kaskad" formation in western Donetsk region. The newly announced brigade appears to represent a scaling-up of that approach, consolidating scattered POW-linked units under a single, brigade-level command structure. The Geneva Convention relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War prohibits a detaining power from forcing captured soldiers to take part in military operations, and separately bars holding or employing POWs under conditions that expose them to direct combat. Kyiv has taken steps to hold Russian officials accountable for the treatment of captured soldiers, including sanctions against Russian judges accused of handing down staged convictions to Ukrainian POWs. Ukrainian officials say thousands of Ukrainian personnel remain in Russian captivity, with abuse against them well documented by international monitors.

Russia has merged five irregular combat formations into a new brigade reportedly made up of Ukrainian army and defectors, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

What seemed like a normal day for students at the Debsirin School ended in a big tragedy. The country was left in shock as a 14-year-old student went on a rampage and killed his grandparents, as well as five teachers at his school, before taking his own life. This marked the Southeast Asian nation's worst mass killing since 2022.Some people may find these visuals disturbing. Students were seen taking cover in a classroom as the shooter opened fire on the school premises. Students ran out of the school, which is located on Bangkok's outskirts, as the wounded were loaded onto ambulances. Dozens of police and emergency responders rushed to the spot, as parents raced to pick up their children.Tearful students and staff comforted each other. At least 30 people have been injured. But a key question arises. Why did a 14-year-old turn his guns on his grandparents, fellow students and teachers? While the probe is still underway, Thai PM Anutin Charnvirakul laid bare the possible reason. He nailed it down to stress. According to him, the shooter's grandmother was very strict on him about studying.After being interrogated by the police, the 14-year-old's close friend also reportedly revealed that he was complaining about stress. While he fired 28 bullets from the gun that belonged to his grandfather, he had 32 bullets left in his bag. There might be another angle to this, though.According to Thailand's Deputy Interior Minister, the shooter might have been addicted to computer games. However, as per his teachers, his aggression was not linked to this possible addiction. Now, this shooting has also put the spotlight on Thailand's infamous gun culture.According to reports, it recorded 7.48 violent gun deaths per hundred thousand people. This is twice as high as the violent gun deaths recorded in the U.S. As per estimates, one in ten persons in Thailand owns a gun. If we look at Southeast Asia as a whole, Thailand has by far the largest number of guns in civilian possession. It is believed that civilians own 10.3 million firearms, out of which nearly four million are unregistered weapons. But Thailand has strong legal regulations on paper, as far as gun ownership is concerned.Only those with gun licenses are allowed to possess a gun. Applicants for a gun license must be at least twenty years old and are then subject to numerous checks. In the wake of the deadly shooting, though, the Thai PM has vowed to introduce a new law, which will restrict the carrying of firearms in public to only government officials. Students also demanded stricter weapons control and harsher punishments for juveniles involved in such crimes. At the same time, the Thai government is also trying to address the mental health crisis.Speaking to the media, the Thai Deputy PM revealed that a mental health action plan will be announced very soon. Now, this is the second school shooting in Thailand this year. In February, a 17-year-old person with a history of substance abuse stole a weapon from a policeman and killed a teacher in a school.

A 14-year-old student allegedly killed his grandparents and five teachers before taking his own life in Thailand. The tragedy has reignited debate over the country's gun culture and mental health.

What seemed like a normal day for students at the Debsirin School ended in a big tragedy. The country was left in shock as a 14-year-old student went on a rampage and killed his grandparents, as well as five teachers at his school, before taking his own life. This marked the Southeast Asian nation's worst mass killing since 2022. Some people may find these visuals disturbing. Students were seen taking cover in a classroom as the shooter opened fire on the school premises. Students ran out of the school, which is located on Bangkok's outskirts, as the wounded were loaded onto ambulances. Dozens of police and emergency responders rushed to the spot, as parents raced to pick up their children. Tearful students and staff comforted each other. At least 30 people have been injured. But a key question arises. Why did a 14-year-old turn his guns on his grandparents, fellow students and teachers? While the probe is still underway, Thai PM Anutin Charnvirakul laid bare the possible reason. He nailed it down to stress. According to him, the shooter's grandmother was very strict on him about studying. After being interrogated by the police, the 14-year-old's close friend also reportedly revealed that he was complaining about stress. While he fired 28 bullets from the gun that belonged to his grandfather, he had 32 bullets left in his bag. There might be another angle to this, though. According to Thailand's Deputy Interior Minister, the shooter might have been addicted to computer games. However, as per his teachers, his aggression was not linked to this possible addiction. Now, this shooting has also put the spotlight on Thailand's infamous gun culture. According to reports, it recorded 7.48 violent gun deaths per hundred thousand people. This is twice as high as the violent gun deaths recorded in the U.S. As per estimates, one in ten persons in Thailand owns a gun. If we look at Southeast Asia as a whole, Thailand has by far the largest number of guns in civilian possession. It is believed that civilians own 10.3 million firearms, out of which nearly four million are unregistered weapons. But Thailand has strong legal regulations on paper, as far as gun ownership is concerned. Only those with gun licenses are allowed to possess a gun. Applicants for a gun license must be at least twenty years old and are then subject to numerous checks. In the wake of the deadly shooting, though, the Thai PM has vowed to introduce a new law, which will restrict the carrying of firearms in public to only government officials. Students also demanded stricter weapons control and harsher punishments for juveniles involved in such crimes. At the same time, the Thai government is also trying to address the mental health crisis. Speaking to the media, the Thai Deputy PM revealed that a mental health action plan will be announced very soon. Now, this is the second school shooting in Thailand this year. In February, a 17-year-old person with a history of substance abuse stole a weapon from a policeman and killed a teacher in a school.

A 14-year-old student allegedly killed his grandparents and five teachers before taking his own life in Thailand. The tragedy has reignited debate over the country's gun culture and mental health.

Thailand: 14-year-old goes on rampage, kills grandparents, teachers & self | Gravitas

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday (August 07) rejected reports claiming that India had approached Israel for a defence pact in response to the newly formed Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Turkey security framework.&nbsp;The claim first appeared in Turkish media outlet Straturka and later spread across social media. The report, citing unnamed Pakistani sources, claimed that New Delhi had started discussions with Tel Aviv for a defence agreement to counter the trilateral security arrangement.&nbsp;The MEA Fact Check unit dismissed the report as fake news and shared a screenshot of the article on social media.&nbsp;"We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms which use AI to create fake content!" the MEA Fact Check wing said in a post on X.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fake Alert!!! 🚨🚨🚨 We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms! <a href="https://t.co/X4YCMY1q4j">pic.twitter.com/X4YCMY1q4j</a>&mdash; MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) <a href="https://x.com/MEAFactCheck/status/2085759333447746038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The claim emerged after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey signed the "Mecca Joint Defence Agreement". The pact seeks to strengthen military coordination and joint security among the three countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e20-petrol-row-puri-says-only-four-contaminated-samples-found-rahul-gandhi-steps-up-attack-1786122960349">E20 petrol row: Puri says only four contaminated samples found, Rahul Gandhi steps up attack</a>&nbsp;Pakistan's foreign ministry said the agreement aims to strengthen collective deterrence. It also stated that "any armed attack against any one of the three States shall be regarded as an attack against them all."&nbsp;The agreement also includes wider defence cooperation across several areas.&nbsp;The MEA said on Friday that India was closely monitoring developments related to the trilateral agreement. Addressing a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "This is also a development that we are closely following, and we shall keep you updated."<h3>Netanyahu says India, Israel ties will strengthen</h3>Amid the reports about an alleged India-Israel defence pact, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said India and Israel would continue to strengthen their relationship.&nbsp;Netanyahu made the remarks in a post on X while resharing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's post about a phone conversation between the two leaders on Thursday.&nbsp;The conversation focused on strengthening the Special Strategic Partnership between India and Israel and discussing the situation in West Asia.&nbsp;"Thank you, my friend, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi. Together we continue to strengthen the bond between Israel and India," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;PM Modi and Netanyahu spoke by phone on Thursday to review and further strengthen bilateral ties. The two leaders discussed deeper cooperation across several sectors and regional developments.&nbsp;MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal gave details of the conversation during the biweekly press briefing in New Delhi on Friday. Jaiswal said the Israeli side initiated the call and Prime Minister Modi received it.

The MEA has rejected as “fake news” reports that India sought a defence pact with Israel following the Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey security agreement, while New Delhi continues to closely monitor the trilateral pact.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday (August 07) rejected reports claiming that India had approached Israel for a defence pact in response to the newly formed Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Turkey security framework. The claim first appeared in Turkish media outlet Straturka and later spread across social media. The report, citing unnamed Pakistani sources, claimed that New Delhi had started discussions with Tel Aviv for a defence agreement to counter the trilateral security arrangement. The MEA Fact Check unit dismissed the report as fake news and shared a screenshot of the article on social media. "We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms which use AI to create fake content!" the MEA Fact Check wing said in a post on X.

The MEA has rejected as “fake news” reports that India sought a defence pact with Israel following the Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey security agreement, while New Delhi continues to closely monitor the trilateral pact.

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

The US Senate on Friday (August 7) approved a sweeping sanctions package aimed at cutting Russia's energy revenues and increasing economic pressure on Moscow over its ongoing war in Ukraine. The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives. However, lawmakers are not expected to vote on the measure until at least early September because Congress is in its summer recess. The sanctions package targets Russian government officials, oligarchs, financial institutions and the so-called shadow fleet used to bypass restrictions on Russian oil exports.&nbsp;The bill also grants President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russian imports, including oil and natural gas. In addition, the legislation would allow Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods imported from countries that continue purchasing significant amounts of Russian oil and gas, including China and India. Supporters argue that reducing Russia's energy income is essential to limiting President Vladimir Putin's ability to finance the war in Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year.&nbsp;If enacted into law, the sanctions would also directly target Putin along with several senior Russian officials. The legislation has been named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who died on July 11 after spending more than a year building bipartisan support for the measure. Before his death, Graham announced that he had reached an agreement with the White House on a revised version of the bill. The updated proposal expanded existing sanctions authority designed to limit funding for Iran's energy and weapons sectors.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-appeals-court-halts-trump-s-400-million-white-house-ballroom-project-construction-1786120405850">US appeals court halts Trump's $400 million White House Ballroom project construction; Trump says, 'Will be appealing to US Supreme Court'</a>&nbsp;For Graham's sister, Darline Graham, who succeeded him in Congress, the bill carries both symbolic and strategic importance.“but will also promote peace by cutting off the funding fueling Russia's war machine.” Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the legislation would significantly increase pressure on Moscow."hits Russia's energy and financial sectors very hard."&nbsp;"Vladimir Putin only understands strength, and he only responds to pressure," Shaheen added. “This legislation represents our best opportunity to finally bring Russia's war machine to its knees and to force Putin to the negotiating table.” Russia's embassy in the United States criticized the legislation, arguing that it "does the current US administration a disservice."&nbsp;Meanwhile, Russia is also facing increased economic pressure from Europe. Last month, the European Union approved its 21st package of sanctions against Moscow since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The latest EU measures focus on freezing the oil price cap to prevent Russia from benefiting from rising global oil prices linked to the conflict involving Iran. According to diplomats, Greece secured an exemption allowing its shipping companies to continue transporting Russian liquefied natural gas from the Arctic, clearing the way for the sanctions package to move forward.&nbsp;The EU sanctions also expand restrictions on Russia's financial sector and cryptocurrency firms while adding dozens of Russian officials to its blacklist over the war. However, a proposed broad visa ban against Russian nationals was ultimately removed from the final package.

The US Senate passes a major Russia sanctions bill targeting energy exports, banks and officials while allowing tariffs on Russian imports and countries purchasing Russian oil and gas

The US Senate on Friday (August 7) approved a sweeping sanctions package aimed at cutting Russia's energy revenues and increasing economic pressure on Moscow over its ongoing war in Ukraine. The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives. However, lawmakers are not expected to vote on the measure until at least early September because Congress is in its summer recess. The sanctions package targets Russian government officials, oligarchs, financial institutions and the so-called shadow fleet used to bypass restrictions on Russian oil exports. The bill also grants President Donald Trump the authority to impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russian imports, including oil and natural gas. In addition, the legislation would allow Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100% on goods imported from countries that continue purchasing significant amounts of Russian oil and gas, including China and India. Supporters argue that reducing Russia's energy income is essential to limiting President Vladimir Putin's ability to finance the war in Ukraine, which has now entered its fifth year. If enacted into law, the sanctions would also directly target Putin along with several senior Russian officials. The legislation has been named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who died on July 11 after spending more than a year building bipartisan support for the measure. Before his death, Graham announced that he had reached an agreement with the White House on a revised version of the bill. The updated proposal expanded existing sanctions authority designed to limit funding for Iran's energy and weapons sectors. Also Read: US appeals court halts Trump's $400 million White House Ballroom project construction; Trump says, 'Will be appealing to US Supreme Court' For Graham's sister, Darline Graham, who succeeded him in Congress, the bill carries both symbolic and strategic importance. “but will also promote peace by cutting off the funding fueling Russia's war machine.” Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the legislation would significantly increase pressure on Moscow. "hits Russia's energy and financial sectors very hard." "Vladimir Putin only understands strength, and he only responds to pressure," Shaheen added. “This legislation represents our best opportunity to finally bring Russia's war machine to its knees and to force Putin to the negotiating table.” Russia's embassy in the United States criticized the legislation, arguing that it "does the current US administration a disservice." Meanwhile, Russia is also facing increased economic pressure from Europe. Last month, the European Union approved its 21st package of sanctions against Moscow since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The latest EU measures focus on freezing the oil price cap to prevent Russia from benefiting from rising global oil prices linked to the conflict involving Iran. According to diplomats, Greece secured an exemption allowing its shipping companies to continue transporting Russian liquefied natural gas from the Arctic, clearing the way for the sanctions package to move forward. The EU sanctions also expand restrictions on Russia's financial sector and cryptocurrency firms while adding dozens of Russian officials to its blacklist over the war. However, a proposed broad visa ban against Russian nationals was ultimately removed from the final package.

The US Senate approved sweeping sanctions targeting Russia's energy sector, officials and finances, while allowing tough tariffs on Russian imports and countries buying Russian oil

US Senate passes sweeping Russia Sanctions Bill targeting energy revenue

Food shortages. Soap running out. Toothpaste in short supply. Could the world's most powerful navy be struggling to support its own sailors? The United States possesses one of the world's most powerful militaries. Since February, its aircraft carriers, destroyers, and fighter aircraft have played a major role in operations linked to the conflict with Iran and maritime security missions. But beneath this show of military strength, another story is emerging.&nbsp;Imagine spending nine months at sea. Now imagine running out of basic necessities like food, soap, and toothpaste. According to reports by MSN, that is what some sailors aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln have reportedly experienced.&nbsp;The challenges extend beyond supplies. Reports also describe mouldy showers and extremely demanding working conditions, even as sailors operate under the constant threat of Iranian drones and missiles.<h2>A Record Deployment</h2>&nbsp;According to the report:&nbsp;<ul><li>USS Abraham Lincoln departed San Diego in November.</li><li>After a brief stop in Guam, it reportedly spent 208 consecutive days at sea—described as a modern-era record for a U.S. aircraft carrier.</li><li>Following a short visit to Oman, the carrier returned to operations around the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean.</li></ul>As the carrier entered its fifth straight month of combat-related operations, family members reportedly warned that prolonged exhaustion could increase the risk of fatal mistakes.&nbsp;<h2>Why Fatigue Matters</h2>An aircraft carrier's flight deck is among the most dangerous workplaces in the military.Every day involves:<ul><li>Loading bombs</li><li>Handling missiles</li><li>Moving aircraft</li></ul>A single mistake can trigger catastrophic accidents.Reports suggest many sailors are working extended shifts with very limited time off.&nbsp;<h2>The Navy Pushes Back</h2>These concerns are not new. Earlier reports claimed sailors were receiving small food portions and poor-quality meals. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed those reports as "fake news," stating that logistics data showed USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Tripoli each had more than 30 days of food supplies onboard.&nbsp;The U.S. Navy also maintained that the ships were adequately supplied.<h2>More Operational Challenges</h2>Living conditions aboard aircraft carriers have drawn attention before.In March, reports said clogged toilets aboard USS Gerald R. Ford created long restroom queues.While an onboard fire was cited as the primary reason for maintenance, plumbing issues were also reported as a contributing concern.<h2>Information War</h2>In March, Iran claimed USS Abraham Lincoln was forced to leave the region after an attack and released footage it said showed cruise missile launches. U.S. Central Command rejected those claims. The competing narratives underline how information has become another battleground.<h2>What Is the U.S. Navy Saying?</h2>With no clear timeline for an end to operations, questions remain about the strain on deployed crews.Joseph Hontz, spokesperson for the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet, told MSN that the crew remains resilient and mission-ready.He also said sailors have access to:<ul><li>Fitness programs</li><li>Mental health support</li><li>Welfare services</li></ul>Military strength depends not only on advanced weapons—but also on the people operating them.As deployments grow longer and operational demands increase, maintaining sailors' morale, health, and living conditions may become just as critical as sustaining combat readiness.&nbsp;The question is: Can the U.S. Navy maintain both?

The challenges extend beyond supplies. Reports also describe mouldy showers and extremely demanding working conditions, even as sailors operate under the constant threat of Iranian drones and missiles.

Food shortages. Soap running out. Toothpaste in short supply. Could the world's most powerful navy be struggling to support its own sailors? The United States possesses one of the world's most powerful militaries. Since February, its aircraft carriers, destroyers, and fighter aircraft have played a major role in operations linked to the conflict with Iran and maritime security missions. But beneath this show of military strength, another story is emerging. Imagine spending nine months at sea. Now imagine running out of basic necessities like food, soap, and toothpaste. According to reports by MSN, that is what some sailors aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln have reportedly experienced. The challenges extend beyond supplies. Reports also describe mouldy showers and extremely demanding working conditions, even as sailors operate under the constant threat of Iranian drones and missiles. A Record Deployment According to the report: USS Abraham Lincoln departed San Diego in November. After a brief stop in Guam, it reportedly spent 208 consecutive days at sea—described as a modern-era record for a U.S. aircraft carrier. Following a short visit to Oman, the carrier returned to operations around the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. As the carrier entered its fifth straight month of combat-related operations, family members reportedly warned that prolonged exhaustion could increase the risk of fatal mistakes. Why Fatigue Matters An aircraft carrier's flight deck is among the most dangerous workplaces in the military. Every day involves: Loading bombs Handling missiles Moving aircraft A single mistake can trigger catastrophic accidents. Reports suggest many sailors are working extended shifts with very limited time off. The Navy Pushes Back These concerns are not new. Earlier reports claimed sailors were receiving small food portions and poor-quality meals. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed those reports as "fake news," stating that logistics data showed USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Tripoli each had more than 30 days of food supplies onboard. The U.S. Navy also maintained that the ships were adequately supplied. More Operational Challenges Living conditions aboard aircraft carriers have drawn attention before. In March, reports said clogged toilets aboard USS Gerald R. Ford created long restroom queues. While an onboard fire was cited as the primary reason for maintenance, plumbing issues were also reported as a contributing concern. Information War In March, Iran claimed USS Abraham Lincoln was forced to leave the region after an attack and released footage it said showed cruise missile launches. U.S. Central Command rejected those claims. The competing narratives underline how information has become another battleground. What Is the U.S. Navy Saying? With no clear timeline for an end to operations, questions remain about the strain on deployed crews. Joseph Hontz, spokesperson for the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet, told MSN that the crew remains resilient and mission-ready. He also said sailors have access to: Fitness programs Mental health support Welfare services Military strength depends not only on advanced weapons—but also on the people operating them. As deployments grow longer and operational demands increase, maintaining sailors' morale, health, and living conditions may become just as critical as sustaining combat readiness. The question is: Can the U.S. Navy maintain both?

The challenges extend beyond supplies. Reports also describe mouldy showers and extremely demanding working conditions, even as sailors operate under the constant threat of Iranian drones and missiles.

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

United States on Friday released a new batch of files and videos related to UFOs, also known as unidentified anomalous phenomena or UAP. The 41 new files that include documents, video and images was posted on Pentagon's UFO website.&nbsp;Pentagon, FBI, CIA, State Department and Executive Office of the President, have contributed to these files. One of them, oldest, is from 1950 and the most recent one is of the current year. &nbsp;They include unexplained sightings from Montana, Utah and Colorado, as well as Brazil, Sweden, Afghanistan, the Pacific Ocean and the Middle East.&nbsp;This is the fifth disclosure after President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January this year directing the military and other agencies to produce more documents related to UFOs or unidentified anomalous phenomena or UAP, &nbsp;a term now used by the Trump government to describe objects or events observed in the sky that cannot be immediately identified.&nbsp;UAPs unlike UFOs can be found on land and underwater, as well as soaring in the air.&nbsp;<h2>What do the files contain?</h2>&nbsp;Several grainy videos released in the new batch of files show flying objects captured by military sensors and cameras.&nbsp;The newly released files, photos and videos are available through the Pentagon's public UFO archive, where the public is free to &nbsp;search and review it.&nbsp;According to CBS one of the video shows footage captured by a "U.S. Government Special Agent" in the western US this year. It "features two, slow-moving 'black-hot' areas of contrast, visible in infrared imaging," according to Pentagon.&nbsp;While another video captured by a military aircraft over a populated area in the Middle East in 2025 shows what appears to be an object zooming across the screen. The incident still remains a mystery.&nbsp;The US defence department uploaded the first tranche of 161 files to their website on 8 May, with promises of more to come.&nbsp;

This is the fifth disclosure after President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January this year directing the military and other agencies to produce more documents related to UFOs or unidentified anomalous phenomena or UAP.

United States on Friday released a new batch of files and videos related to UFOs, also known as unidentified anomalous phenomena or UAP. The 41 new files that include documents, video and images was posted on Pentagon's UFO website. Pentagon, FBI, CIA, State Department and Executive Office of the President, have contributed to these files. One of them, oldest, is from 1950 and the most recent one is of the current year. They include unexplained sightings from Montana, Utah and Colorado, as well as Brazil, Sweden, Afghanistan, the Pacific Ocean and the Middle East. This is the fifth disclosure after President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January this year directing the military and other agencies to produce more documents related to UFOs or unidentified anomalous phenomena or UAP, a term now used by the Trump government to describe objects or events observed in the sky that cannot be immediately identified. UAPs unlike UFOs can be found on land and underwater, as well as soaring in the air. What do the files contain? Several grainy videos released in the new batch of files show flying objects captured by military sensors and cameras. The newly released files, photos and videos are available through the Pentagon's public UFO archive, where the public is free to search and review it. According to CBS one of the video shows footage captured by a "U.S. Government Special Agent" in the western US this year. It "features two, slow-moving 'black-hot' areas of contrast, visible in infrared imaging," according to Pentagon. While another video captured by a military aircraft over a populated area in the Middle East in 2025 shows what appears to be an object zooming across the screen. The incident still remains a mystery. The US defence department uploaded the first tranche of 161 files to their website on 8 May, with promises of more to come.

This is the fifth disclosure after President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January this year directing the military and other agencies to produce more documents related to UFOs or unidentified anomalous phenomena or UAP.

Pentagon releases new batch of 41 UFO files, including videos and images

Iranian Parliamentary Spokesperson Hassan Ghashghavi said that a framework for the management of the Strait of Hormuz has been agreed with Oman. He did not mention the details of the text and suggested that the final decision is yet to be agreed upon.&nbsp;“The general framework of the understanding with Oman has been determined, and the final text and details will be announced soon,” said Ghashghavi as reported by the state media ISNA.Tehran further added that complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz depends upon the US lifting the naval blockade. However, a US official responding to a Bloomberg report said that any route or temporary passage through the Strait of Hormuz should not require approval, permissions, tolls and charges, responding to a report by Bloomberg.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-july-2026-jobs-report-labour-market-slowdown-1786115221447">US loses 23,000 jobs in July as labour market slowdown deepens</a>"Any temporary routes will be without any impediments — meaning no approvals or permissions and no tolls or charges. The Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway, and no party controls the lanes or the ability to transit through them," said a US official said in a statement about the talks, as reported by ABC News.However, Ghashghavi maintained that there were three core pillars of passage through the Strait of Hormuz: entry and exit routing, route management and associated fees. He alleged that US and Zionist lobbies and several regional states failed to calculate Iran's intelligence capabilities or its response to contract breaches under Article 5 to an Iranian-managed arrangement in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;"I state with confidence that both the entry and exit points of the maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz will be subject to Iranian management and control," &nbsp;said Ghashghavi as reported by ISNA. He further added that Iranian leadership wether its Iranian diplomatic channels, military forces, or the central government, remains aligned on the objective.

Iran says it has agreed on a framework with Oman for managing the Strait of Hormuz, while the US insists the international waterway requires no approvals or tolls.

Iranian Parliamentary Spokesperson Hassan Ghashghavi said that a framework for the management of the Strait of Hormuz has been agreed with Oman. He did not mention the details of the text and suggested that the final decision is yet to be agreed upon. “The general framework of the understanding with Oman has been determined, and the final text and details will be announced soon,” said Ghashghavi as reported by the state media ISNA. Tehran further added that complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz depends upon the US lifting the naval blockade. However, a US official responding to a Bloomberg report said that any route or temporary passage through the Strait of Hormuz should not require approval, permissions, tolls and charges, responding to a report by Bloomberg. Also Read: US loses 23,000 jobs in July as labour market slowdown deepens "Any temporary routes will be without any impediments — meaning no approvals or permissions and no tolls or charges. The Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway, and no party controls the lanes or the ability to transit through them," said a US official said in a statement about the talks, as reported by ABC News. However, Ghashghavi maintained that there were three core pillars of passage through the Strait of Hormuz: entry and exit routing, route management and associated fees. He alleged that US and Zionist lobbies and several regional states failed to calculate Iran's intelligence capabilities or its response to contract breaches under Article 5 to an Iranian-managed arrangement in the Strait of Hormuz. "I state with confidence that both the entry and exit points of the maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz will be subject to Iranian management and control," said Ghashghavi as reported by ISNA. He further added that Iranian leadership wether its Iranian diplomatic channels, military forces, or the central government, remains aligned on the objective.

Iran says it has agreed on a framework with Oman for managing the Strait of Hormuz, while the US insists the international waterway requires no approvals or tolls.

Iran says Hormuz framework agreed with Oman, final deal pending

The Indian government on Friday formally assigned standard names to 27 places and geographical features in Arunachal Pradesh on the official maps of Survey of India (SoI). Officials describe the move as a riposte to China’s efforts to rename dozens of locations in the state in recent years.&nbsp;"Identifying them formally on the Survey of India map of Arunachal Pradesh is aimed at facilitating their accurate recognition and better awareness among the public at large," read a press release by the Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp;Longju, Maja, Bisa, Dzo La, Riza La, Pukur La, Thag La, Sambho Sarovar, Bara Kundun are some of the places &nbsp;places/features so identified on the Survey of India map of the State of Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-ministry-adds-full-vande-mataram-lyrics-to-independence-day-invitation-cards-here-s-what-it-means-1786110729800">Defence Ministry adds full Vande Mataram lyrics to Independence Day invitation cards. Here's what it means</a>&nbsp;The move comes against Beijing's repeated threats and &nbsp;attempts to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh, which China refers to as "South Tibet". There have also been been instances of Chinese authorities issuing stapled visas to residents of Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;India has continuously rejected Chinese actions and maintained that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of the country and that unilateral changes in nomenclature does not alter the ground reality or affect India's sovereignty.&nbsp;According to experts, identifying a place on the Survey of India map gives administrative and governance value to it<h2>Here is the list of newly named places by MHA</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>S.No.</td><td>Name of Place</td><td>Feature Type</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Longju</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Maja</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Bisa</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Dzo La</td><td>Pass</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Riza La</td><td>Pass</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Pukur La</td><td>Pass</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Thag La</td><td>Pass</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Sambho Sarovar</td><td>Lake</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Bara Kundun</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Chhota Kundun</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Dhan Bari</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Pritnagar</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Buddhamandir</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Jairampur</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Teritnagar</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Ramnagar</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Jaswant Garh</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>Sagar</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Padma</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>Jyotinagar</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>Baisakhi</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>Sher-e-Thapa Memorial</td><td>Monument</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Chhota Ropuk</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Bara Ropuk</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Shivaji Nagar</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Sunpura</td><td>Land area</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Kamlang Nagar</td><td>Land area</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The move comes against Beijing's repeated threats and  attempts to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh, which China refers to as "South Tibet". 

The Indian government on Friday formally assigned standard names to 27 places and geographical features in Arunachal Pradesh on the official maps of Survey of India (SoI). Officials describe the move as a riposte to China’s efforts to rename dozens of locations in the state in recent years. "Identifying them formally on the Survey of India map of Arunachal Pradesh is aimed at facilitating their accurate recognition and better awareness among the public at large," read a press release by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Longju, Maja, Bisa, Dzo La, Riza La, Pukur La, Thag La, Sambho Sarovar, Bara Kundun are some of the places places/features so identified on the Survey of India map of the State of Arunachal Pradesh. ALSO READ: Defence Ministry adds full Vande Mataram lyrics to Independence Day invitation cards. Here's what it means The move comes against Beijing's repeated threats and attempts to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh, which China refers to as "South Tibet". There have also been been instances of Chinese authorities issuing stapled visas to residents of Arunachal Pradesh. India has continuously rejected Chinese actions and maintained that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of the country and that unilateral changes in nomenclature does not alter the ground reality or affect India's sovereignty. According to experts, identifying a place on the Survey of India map gives administrative and governance value to it Here is the list of newly named places by MHA

The move comes against Beijing's repeated threats and &nbsp;attempts to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh, which China refers to as "South Tibet".&nbsp;

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

A US federal appeals court on Friday ordered President Donald Trump's administration to halt construction of a $400 million ballroom on the site of the White House's demolished East Wing, marking a significant legal setback in a case examining the limits of presidential authority. In a 2-1 ruling, the Washington-based US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said a president does not have unilateral authority to fundamentally alter the White House without congressional approval.&nbsp;“Each President is a temporary tenant, not the owner, of the White House” and cannot fundamentally reshape it without congressional approval, the court said. The decision upheld a preliminary injunction secured by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which filed a lawsuit last year after the administration demolished the East Wing and began constructing a 90,000-square-foot (8,360-square-meter) ballroom without first obtaining authorization from Congress.&nbsp;The court's majority emphasised that decisions about major structural changes to the White House belong to Congress. "Whether or not a ​massive ballroom should be constructed is for Congress to decide and is not a matter for Executive self-help," the panel majority wrote. "Congress has not ceded unfettered authority to the Executive Branch to dramatically redesign, reshape, and reconstruct the White House, the People’s House, to fit a particular President’s ​desires."&nbsp;The appeals court placed its ruling on hold for 14 days, allowing the Trump administration time to seek review from the US Supreme Court. The White House and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The National Trust for Historic Preservation also did not immediately comment. The appeal followed rulings by US District Judge Richard Leon, appointed by former President George W. Bush, who twice blocked above-ground construction while allowing underground work to continue.&nbsp;The ballroom project has been described by the administration as necessary for hosting large formal events while improving White House security. It is also one of several initiatives by Trump aimed at reshaping prominent government buildings and landmarks in Washington. In a separate legal dispute, another judge recently ruled that Trump's name had been illegally added to the exterior of the Kennedy Center and ordered it removed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/security-can-t-be-bought-with-pakistan-turkey-deal-iran-tells-saudi-arabia-1786115733935">'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia</a><h2>National security arguments</h2>During oral arguments before the DC Circuit on June 5, Justice Department attorney Yaakov Roth argued that courts should not interfere with the privately funded ballroom project. Roth contended that the National Trust's ‘architectural preference’ should not outweigh national security concerns, asserting that the former East Wing left the president and others inside the White House vulnerable to attack.&nbsp;"They just don't want to go to Congress," responded Thaddeus Heuer, attorney for the preservation group. The majority opinion, written by Democratic-appointed judges Patricia Millett and Brad Garcia, clarified that the ruling does not permanently prohibit construction. Instead, it pauses above-ground work while the lawsuit proceeds and until congressional approval is obtained.&nbsp;“The bold assertion that the Executive can act with utter lawlessness, destroying treasured national landmarks and harming ​the interests of individuals, and that no court can stop it flouts our constitutional order,” the majority wrote. The judges also rejected the administration's national security argument, stating that ‘are not an automatic get-out-of-law-free card’. In dissent, Circuit Judge Neomi Rao, appointed by Trump during his first term, argued that the lower court had exceeded its authority.&nbsp;“The district court seized supervision of construction at the White House, and my colleagues affirm this judicial overreach,” Rao wrote. Trump has continued to defend the ballroom project despite its growing cost, which has doubled from its original estimate. In a Truth Social post in May, Trump said the increased cost reflected the expanded scope of the project, writing that ‘it is approximately twice the size, and a far higher quality, than the original proposal’ and promising ‘it will be magnificent, safe, and secure!’<h2>‘We will be immediately appealing to US Supreme Court’: Trump</h2>US President Donald Trump on Friday criticised an appeals court decision ordering a pause in construction of his White House ballroom, and promised to challenge the ruling in the Supreme Court. "We will be immediately appealing to the United States Supreme Court," Trump said in a post on Truth Social, describing it as "a horrendous, politically motivated, and unlawful ruling" that goes against national security interests.

Federal appeals court halts Trump's $400 million White House ballroom project, ruling Congress must approve major White House changes. Read the latest court decision, legal arguments, and what comes next

A US federal appeals court on Friday ordered President Donald Trump's administration to halt construction of a $400 million ballroom on the site of the White House's demolished East Wing, marking a significant legal setback in a case examining the limits of presidential authority. In a 2-1 ruling, the Washington-based US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said a president does not have unilateral authority to fundamentally alter the White House without congressional approval. “Each President is a temporary tenant, not the owner, of the White House” and cannot fundamentally reshape it without congressional approval, the court said. The decision upheld a preliminary injunction secured by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which filed a lawsuit last year after the administration demolished the East Wing and began constructing a 90,000-square-foot (8,360-square-meter) ballroom without first obtaining authorization from Congress. The court's majority emphasised that decisions about major structural changes to the White House belong to Congress. "Whether or not a massive ballroom should be constructed is for Congress to decide and is not a matter for Executive self-help," the panel majority wrote. "Congress has not ceded unfettered authority to the Executive Branch to dramatically redesign, reshape, and reconstruct the White House, the People’s House, to fit a particular President’s desires." The appeals court placed its ruling on hold for 14 days, allowing the Trump administration time to seek review from the US Supreme Court. The White House and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The National Trust for Historic Preservation also did not immediately comment. The appeal followed rulings by US District Judge Richard Leon, appointed by former President George W. Bush, who twice blocked above-ground construction while allowing underground work to continue. The ballroom project has been described by the administration as necessary for hosting large formal events while improving White House security. It is also one of several initiatives by Trump aimed at reshaping prominent government buildings and landmarks in Washington. In a separate legal dispute, another judge recently ruled that Trump's name had been illegally added to the exterior of the Kennedy Center and ordered it removed. Also Read: 'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia National security arguments During oral arguments before the DC Circuit on June 5, Justice Department attorney Yaakov Roth argued that courts should not interfere with the privately funded ballroom project. Roth contended that the National Trust's ‘architectural preference’ should not outweigh national security concerns, asserting that the former East Wing left the president and others inside the White House vulnerable to attack. "They just don't want to go to Congress," responded Thaddeus Heuer, attorney for the preservation group. The majority opinion, written by Democratic-appointed judges Patricia Millett and Brad Garcia, clarified that the ruling does not permanently prohibit construction. Instead, it pauses above-ground work while the lawsuit proceeds and until congressional approval is obtained. “The bold assertion that the Executive can act with utter lawlessness, destroying treasured national landmarks and harming the interests of individuals, and that no court can stop it flouts our constitutional order,” the majority wrote. The judges also rejected the administration's national security argument, stating that ‘are not an automatic get-out-of-law-free card’. In dissent, Circuit Judge Neomi Rao, appointed by Trump during his first term, argued that the lower court had exceeded its authority. “The district court seized supervision of construction at the White House, and my colleagues affirm this judicial overreach,” Rao wrote. Trump has continued to defend the ballroom project despite its growing cost, which has doubled from its original estimate. In a Truth Social post in May, Trump said the increased cost reflected the expanded scope of the project, writing that ‘it is approximately twice the size, and a far higher quality, than the original proposal’ and promising ‘it will be magnificent, safe, and secure!’ ‘We will be immediately appealing to US Supreme Court’: Trump US President Donald Trump on Friday criticised an appeals court decision ordering a pause in construction of his White House ballroom, and promised to challenge the ruling in the Supreme Court. "We will be immediately appealing to the United States Supreme Court," Trump said in a post on Truth Social, describing it as "a horrendous, politically motivated, and unlawful ruling" that goes against national security interests.

President Trump's $400 million White House ballroom project has been halted by a federal appeals court, which ruled Congress must approve major White House redesigns before construction proceeds

US appeals court halts Trump's $400 million White House Ballroom project construction; Trump says, 'Will be appealing to US Supreme Court'

Meta has been ordered to pay another $567 million after a US judge ruled against the company over allegations that its social media platforms exposed children to harmful content and failed to adequately protect young users.&nbsp;Judge Bryan Biedscheid issued the ruling in New Mexico on Thursday, adding to the legal and regulatory pressure facing Meta over how Facebook and Instagram are designed and how they protect children from harmful content, sexual exploitation and potentially addictive use.&nbsp;The latest ruling follows a $375 million fine imposed in March in the same case. A jury had found Meta liable for making young users vulnerable to predators on its platforms. Meta has said it will appeal the latest decision.&nbsp;The ruling also comes as more than 30 US states pursue similar lawsuits against Meta. The cases allege that the company's platforms have harmed children and put their mental health at risk.Meta ordered to fund mental health programmes&nbsp;Around three-fourths of the $567 million payment will go towards a mental health treatment fund. Meta will make the payments over five years.&nbsp;The remaining amount will fund programmes focused on "awareness and prevention" of potential dangers to young people. It will also support measures to ensure Meta carries out the changes ordered by the court.&nbsp;The company had already been found guilty in March of violating New Mexico's Unfair Practices Act by misleading consumers about the safety of its products for children.&nbsp;The court also ordered Meta to limit some features for children on Facebook and Instagram. The ruling said the company had created a "public nuisance" that endangered young users.&nbsp;It was the first time a US court had found a social media company guilty of creating a "public nuisance" in a case involving alleged harm to children.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pok-polls-pakistan-postpones-third-phase-voting-amid-ongoing-unrest-1786113957329">PoK polls: Pakistan postpones third phase voting amid ongoing unrest</a><h2>Growing legal pressure on social media companies</h2>The ruling comes as several US states continue to pursue cases against major social media companies over alleged harm to children and their mental health.&nbsp;In July, a US teenager dropped a lawsuit against Meta shortly before the trial was due to begin after reaching confidential settlements with Meta, YouTube, TikTok and Snap.&nbsp;A separate trial over social media's impact on mental health ended in March. A Los Angeles jury ordered Meta and Google to pay $6 million to a 20-year-old woman.&nbsp;In May, Meta, Snap, TikTok and YouTube also reached confidential settlements with a Kentucky school district.

Meta faces fresh legal pressure in the US after a judge ruled that its platforms exposed children to harmful content and failed to adequately protect young users.

Meta has been ordered to pay another $567 million after a US judge ruled against the company over allegations that its social media platforms exposed children to harmful content and failed to adequately protect young users. Judge Bryan Biedscheid issued the ruling in New Mexico on Thursday, adding to the legal and regulatory pressure facing Meta over how Facebook and Instagram are designed and how they protect children from harmful content, sexual exploitation and potentially addictive use. The latest ruling follows a $375 million fine imposed in March in the same case. A jury had found Meta liable for making young users vulnerable to predators on its platforms. Meta has said it will appeal the latest decision. The ruling also comes as more than 30 US states pursue similar lawsuits against Meta. The cases allege that the company's platforms have harmed children and put their mental health at risk. Meta ordered to fund mental health programmes Around three-fourths of the $567 million payment will go towards a mental health treatment fund. Meta will make the payments over five years. The remaining amount will fund programmes focused on "awareness and prevention" of potential dangers to young people. It will also support measures to ensure Meta carries out the changes ordered by the court. The company had already been found guilty in March of violating New Mexico's Unfair Practices Act by misleading consumers about the safety of its products for children. The court also ordered Meta to limit some features for children on Facebook and Instagram. The ruling said the company had created a "public nuisance" that endangered young users. It was the first time a US court had found a social media company guilty of creating a "public nuisance" in a case involving alleged harm to children. Also Read: PoK polls: Pakistan postpones third phase voting amid ongoing unrest Growing legal pressure on social media companies The ruling comes as several US states continue to pursue cases against major social media companies over alleged harm to children and their mental health. In July, a US teenager dropped a lawsuit against Meta shortly before the trial was due to begin after reaching confidential settlements with Meta, YouTube, TikTok and Snap. A separate trial over social media's impact on mental health ended in March. A Los Angeles jury ordered Meta and Google to pay $6 million to a 20-year-old woman. In May, Meta, Snap, TikTok and YouTube also reached confidential settlements with a Kentucky school district.

Meta faces fresh legal pressure in the US after a judge ruled that its platforms exposed children to harmful content and failed to adequately protect young users.

‘Public nuisance’: Meta hit with $567 million penalty over child safety in US

The US economy just lost 23,000 jobs in July 2026, missing the projection of adding 83,000 new jobs for the month. According to data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics, July's net loss of 23,000 jobs was not a sudden or one-time fluke caused by a bad month. Instead, the economic slowdown had already taken root in May and June, with the 103,000 vanished jobs from May and June.&nbsp;The unemployment rate remained steady at 4.1 per cent, down from 4.2 per cent in June. Analysts point out that this is driven by 720,000 people leaving the workforce. July’s job losses were concentrated in local government education, with 50,000 jobs lost, and retail, which lost 19,000. The private sector, however, gained 30,000 jobs, with growth focused once again in healthcare.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-china-helped-prevent-global-oil-shock-hormuz-crisis-1786108763517">How China helped prevent a global oil shock during Hormuz crisis</a>Market experts describe the current climate as a "no hire, no fire" labour market, where employers are retaining existing staff due to past pandemic-era shortages but are highly hesitant to expand. Unemployment is a lagging indicator and is a critical indicator of economic crisis. Job losses reduce personal income, forcing households to cut non-essential spending immediately.&nbsp;The data shows that the US economy is behaving in a stagflationary pattern. The leading indicators like consumer spending show an economy where everyday consumers are tapped out and pessimistic; the yield curve remains volatile in a phase known as a “Bear Steepener”, &nbsp;yet industrial factories and tech infrastructure firms are still running hot, driven by wartime production and defensive positioning rather than a healthy, consumer-driven retail market. &nbsp;While the lagging indicators like jobs, labour force, corporate earnings and capex spending have suddenly turned negative may indicate the long-anticipated slowdown is beginning to appear in hard economic data.

The US economy lost 23,000 jobs in July after major downward revisions to May and June, signalling a weakening labour market and slowing growth.

The US economy just lost 23,000 jobs in July 2026, missing the projection of adding 83,000 new jobs for the month. According to data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics, July's net loss of 23,000 jobs was not a sudden or one-time fluke caused by a bad month. Instead, the economic slowdown had already taken root in May and June, with the 103,000 vanished jobs from May and June. The unemployment rate remained steady at 4.1 per cent, down from 4.2 per cent in June. Analysts point out that this is driven by 720,000 people leaving the workforce. July’s job losses were concentrated in local government education, with 50,000 jobs lost, and retail, which lost 19,000. The private sector, however, gained 30,000 jobs, with growth focused once again in healthcare. Also Read: How China helped prevent a global oil shock during Hormuz crisis Market experts describe the current climate as a "no hire, no fire" labour market, where employers are retaining existing staff due to past pandemic-era shortages but are highly hesitant to expand. Unemployment is a lagging indicator and is a critical indicator of economic crisis. Job losses reduce personal income, forcing households to cut non-essential spending immediately. The data shows that the US economy is behaving in a stagflationary pattern. The leading indicators like consumer spending show an economy where everyday consumers are tapped out and pessimistic; the yield curve remains volatile in a phase known as a “Bear Steepener”, yet industrial factories and tech infrastructure firms are still running hot, driven by wartime production and defensive positioning rather than a healthy, consumer-driven retail market. While the lagging indicators like jobs, labour force, corporate earnings and capex spending have suddenly turned negative may indicate the long-anticipated slowdown is beginning to appear in hard economic data.

The US economy lost 23,000 jobs in July after major downward revisions to May and June, signalling a weakening labour market and slowing growth.

US loses 23,000 jobs in July as labour market slowdown deepens

A member of Iran's Parliament and the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission has criticised the newly signed defence pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, arguing that the agreement will not ensure Riyadh's security. Ebrahim Rezaei reacted to the defence agreement on X, writing, "Saudis must know that a paper agreement with Turkey and Pakistan will not bring them security, just as years of one-sided nursing to the Americans did not bring them security."&nbsp;He further claimed that if Saudi Arabia changed its policies, it would not need to ‘beg’ other countries for security. Earlier in the day, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey signed a new defence pact, known as the ‘Mecca Joint Defence Agreement’, aimed at strengthening security cooperation amid heightened regional tensions following the conflict between the United States and Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;The ongoing crisis has also affected Gulf states and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Under the agreement, an attack on any one of the three member countries will be treated as an attack on all three. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement, "The Agreement is intended to strengthen collective deterrence against any act of aggression, and stipulates that any armed attack against any one of the three States shall be regarded as an attack against them all. It further provides for the enhancement of all aspects of defence cooperation among the three States".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-was-standing-in-front-of-the-teacher-when-she-was-shot-student-recalls-thailand-school-shooting-horror-1786112068049">'I was standing in front of the teacher when she was shot': Student recalls Thailand school shooting horror</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">سعودی‌ها باید بدانند که توافق کاغذی با ترکیه و پاکستان برای آنها امنیت‌آور نیست، همان‌طور که سال‌ها شیردهی یکطرفه به آمریکایی‌ها برایشان امنیت نیاورد. سیاست‌هایتان را اصلاح کنید تا نیاز نباشد از دیگران <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/%DA%AF%D8%AF%D8%A7%DB%8C%DB%8C_%D8%A7%D9%85%D9%86%DB%8C%D8%AA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#گدایی_امنیت</a> کنید.&mdash; ابراهیم رضایی (@EbrahimRezaei14) <a href="https://x.com/EbrahimRezaei14/status/2085694930077237398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan had already announced a mutual defence pact in 2025, a move that attracted significant attention as Pakistan remains the only nuclear-armed nation in the Muslim world. The latest agreement also comes amid renewed instability in the region after a truce between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi rebels collapsed. Since the ceasefire ended, the Houthis have launched attacks on Saudi territory and declared a maritime blockade against the kingdom, attempting to enforce it by targeting Saudi oil tankers.

Iran criticised the newly signed Mecca Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Iranian MP Ebrahim Rezaei said the pact would not guarantee Riyadh's security despite enhanced defence cooperation

A member of Iran's Parliament and the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission has criticised the newly signed defence pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, arguing that the agreement will not ensure Riyadh's security. Ebrahim Rezaei reacted to the defence agreement on X, writing, "Saudis must know that a paper agreement with Turkey and Pakistan will not bring them security, just as years of one-sided nursing to the Americans did not bring them security." He further claimed that if Saudi Arabia changed its policies, it would not need to ‘beg’ other countries for security. Earlier in the day, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey signed a new defence pact, known as the ‘Mecca Joint Defence Agreement’, aimed at strengthening security cooperation amid heightened regional tensions following the conflict between the United States and Iran. The ongoing crisis has also affected Gulf states and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Under the agreement, an attack on any one of the three member countries will be treated as an attack on all three. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement, "The Agreement is intended to strengthen collective deterrence against any act of aggression, and stipulates that any armed attack against any one of the three States shall be regarded as an attack against them all. It further provides for the enhancement of all aspects of defence cooperation among the three States". Also Read: 'I was standing in front of the teacher when she was shot': Student recalls Thailand school shooting horror

Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Rezaei criticised the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia-Turkey ‘Mecca Joint Defence Agreement’, saying it will not guarantee Saudi security despite the new mutual defence pact

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

China's crude oil imports climbed 22 per cent in July from June's near decade low, as refiners moved to snap up cheap barrels during a brief reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Though the total volume remains well below the pre-war levels, according to data from China's General Administration of Customs. China, the largest importer of Crude oil, brought roughly 35.73 million metric tons of crude last month, equivalent to roughly 8.41 million barrels per day, marking a sharp increase from June. China's imports in June saw a decline amid the global crisis and weak domestic demand, as well as an export curb Beijing imposed to safeguard its energy security. Even with the recent surge, it still remains 24.3 per cent lower than a year ago.The positive growth of imports can be traced to a period of relative ease in June, when the Strait of Hormuz partially reopened, and Brent crude slid into the $70 a barrel. Ye Lin, vice president at Rystad Energy, said Chinese buyers moved opportunistically during that stretch, locking in discounted cargoes that are still arriving on Chinese shores. Ye added that the wave of purchases is expected to keep flowing through August, and should help ease Beijing's restrictions on refined-product exports while nudging refinery run rates modestly higher as margins recover. Separate tracking from Vortexa put China's seaborne imports at 7.1 million barrels a day in July, with non-Iranian Middle Eastern supply rising by roughly 1 million barrels a day from June, a sign that Chinese refiners are also diversifying away from the discounted Iranian and Russian barrels they leaned on earlier in the conflict.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-sukhbir-badal-meeting-bjp-sad-alliance-punjab-2027-1786101731538">PM Modi meets Sukhbir Badal, fuels talk of BJP-SAD reunion in Punjab</a><h2>How Beijing's buying strategy eased pressure on global oil markets</h2>When Iran closed the Hormuz, roughly 20 million barrels per day of oil were taken out of the global market; that is huge. The global oil market produces 100 million barrels per day, with zero slack in the system, so losing 20 million bpd means 20 per cent of the oil-consuming world was going to power out. It was a global calamity, but there were countermeasures in place. The Saudi East- West pipeline, which was pumping 2.8 million bpd prior to the conflict, started adding 7 million bpd at maximum capacity, and a further 1.5-1.8 million bpd was added by the Abu Dhabi oil pipeline. With the Saudi East-West pipeline and the Abu Dhabi oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, respectively, putting back roughly 7 million barrels per day into the system, bypassing the Hormuz, reducing the shortfall significantly. Still, it's a 13 million bpd shortfall. The Strategic Petroleum Reserve released by the IEA's 32 members put back roughly 1.4 million barrels per day over 120 days.&nbsp;But China, as the world's largest crude importer, did not scramble to meet the demand in the open market. China managed the aftermath of a war that disrupted the global oil markets. According to sources like Kpler and Bloomberg, Beijing spent much of the spring drawing down a stockpile estimated at close to 1.4 billion barrels, thus meeting roughly 5 million bpd from its domestic inventory and alternative energy sources. A manoeuvre analysts credited with helping keep global oil prices from spiralling past $200 a barrel, reducing the demand to balance the shortfall of supply. Bloomberg columnist Javier Blas has argued the episode effectively turned China into the oil market's first "swing importer," giving Beijing outsized influence over global prices by choosing when to buy and when to sit out.

China's oil stockpile drawdown and cautious buying strategy helped ease pressure on global crude markets after the Strait of Hormuz disruption.

China's crude oil imports climbed 22 per cent in July from June's near decade low, as refiners moved to snap up cheap barrels during a brief reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Though the total volume remains well below the pre-war levels, according to data from China's General Administration of Customs. China, the largest importer of Crude oil, brought roughly 35.73 million metric tons of crude last month, equivalent to roughly 8.41 million barrels per day, marking a sharp increase from June. China's imports in June saw a decline amid the global crisis and weak domestic demand, as well as an export curb Beijing imposed to safeguard its energy security. Even with the recent surge, it still remains 24.3 per cent lower than a year ago. The positive growth of imports can be traced to a period of relative ease in June, when the Strait of Hormuz partially reopened, and Brent crude slid into the $70 a barrel. Ye Lin, vice president at Rystad Energy, said Chinese buyers moved opportunistically during that stretch, locking in discounted cargoes that are still arriving on Chinese shores. Ye added that the wave of purchases is expected to keep flowing through August, and should help ease Beijing's restrictions on refined-product exports while nudging refinery run rates modestly higher as margins recover. Separate tracking from Vortexa put China's seaborne imports at 7.1 million barrels a day in July, with non-Iranian Middle Eastern supply rising by roughly 1 million barrels a day from June, a sign that Chinese refiners are also diversifying away from the discounted Iranian and Russian barrels they leaned on earlier in the conflict. Also Read: PM Modi meets Sukhbir Badal, fuels talk of BJP-SAD reunion in Punjab How Beijing's buying strategy eased pressure on global oil markets When Iran closed the Hormuz, roughly 20 million barrels per day of oil were taken out of the global market; that is huge. The global oil market produces 100 million barrels per day, with zero slack in the system, so losing 20 million bpd means 20 per cent of the oil-consuming world was going to power out. It was a global calamity, but there were countermeasures in place. The Saudi East- West pipeline, which was pumping 2.8 million bpd prior to the conflict, started adding 7 million bpd at maximum capacity, and a further 1.5-1.8 million bpd was added by the Abu Dhabi oil pipeline. With the Saudi East-West pipeline and the Abu Dhabi oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, respectively, putting back roughly 7 million barrels per day into the system, bypassing the Hormuz, reducing the shortfall significantly. Still, it's a 13 million bpd shortfall. The Strategic Petroleum Reserve released by the IEA's 32 members put back roughly 1.4 million barrels per day over 120 days. But China, as the world's largest crude importer, did not scramble to meet the demand in the open market. China managed the aftermath of a war that disrupted the global oil markets. According to sources like Kpler and Bloomberg, Beijing spent much of the spring drawing down a stockpile estimated at close to 1.4 billion barrels, thus meeting roughly 5 million bpd from its domestic inventory and alternative energy sources. A manoeuvre analysts credited with helping keep global oil prices from spiralling past $200 a barrel, reducing the demand to balance the shortfall of supply. Bloomberg columnist Javier Blas has argued the episode effectively turned China into the oil market's first "swing importer," giving Beijing outsized influence over global prices by choosing when to buy and when to sit out.

China's oil stockpile drawdown and cautious buying strategy helped ease pressure on global crude markets after the Strait of Hormuz disruption.

How China helped prevent a global oil shock during Hormuz crisis

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