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The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has opened with a theme that reflects the challenges facing the international system: “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” The theme was put forward by General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh, who was elected to lead the 2026–27 session in June.But what does the phrase actually mean? At its core, the UNGA 2026 theme is about rebuilding confidence in multilateral institutions while ensuring that the United Nations can adapt to a rapidly changing world. Rahman’s programme links trust and reform, arguing that the United Nations needs to demonstrate through concrete results that it can respond effectively to global challenges.<h2>What does ‘Restoring Trust’ mean?</h2>The first part of the theme focuses on a growing challenge for international cooperation: trust in the ability of global institutions to deliver results. The UN’s 81st session begins against a backdrop of armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, widening inequalities, climate emergencies and pressure on the multilateral system. The President’s programme says these developments have contributed to an erosion of confidence in international institutions.&nbsp;For Rahman, restoring trust means showing that the UN can move beyond declarations and produce practical outcomes.In his opening remarks on September 8, he said restoring trust requires both 'delivery and reform', with the organisation demonstrating that it can effectively serve the people it represents. That also means strengthening cooperation among UN member states and making the organisation more accountable, responsive and effective.<h2>What does ‘Managing Transformation’ mean?</h2>The second part of the theme focuses on the major changes reshaping the world. Technology, artificial intelligence, climate change, shifting economic structures, demographic changes and new security challenges are transforming societies and international relations. The UNGA programme particularly highlights AI, big data and digital platforms. While these technologies can accelerate development, the UN also identifies risks including inequality, bias, surveillance and misuse.&nbsp;The theme therefore is not simply about embracing technological change. It is also about governing that change fairly and ensuring that developing countries and communities are not left behind. Rahman has called for inclusive implementation of the Global Digital Compact, investment to close the digital divide and stronger international cooperation on AI governance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-underwater-footage-shows-capsized-indonesian-passenger-ship-as-129-remain-missing-1789711156071">WATCH | Underwater footage shows capsized Indonesian passenger ship as 129 remain missing</a><h2>What does ‘A United Nations That Delivers for All’ mean?</h2>The final part of the theme connects trust and transformation with the UN's ability to deliver results for its entire membership.The programme is organised around six interconnected pillars:<ul><li>Silence the Guns, Amplify the Voices — peace, security and justice</li><li>No One Left Behind, No Country Left Out — sustainable development and accelerating the SDGs</li><li>Our Planet, Our Pact — climate resilience and environmental sustainability</li><li>Rights and Protection: Freedom from Fear and Want — human rights and humanitarian action</li><li>Innovation with Inclusion — AI, digital governance, science and technology</li><li>We the Peoples, Reimagined — UN reform and inclusive global governance&nbsp;</li></ul>The six areas are designed to be interconnected. The UN argues that peace, development, climate action, human rights and effective global governance cannot be treated as completely separate challenges.<h2>Why is the theme significant in 2026?</h2>The timing is important because the UN is entering its ninth decade amid major geopolitical and economic changes. The 81st session follows the UN's 80th anniversary and comes as the organisation continues initiatives such as UN80 reforms, the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact. The new session seeks to turn those reform efforts into more effective and member-driven action.&nbsp;The theme also places particular emphasis on making multilateralism more responsive to today's challenges rather than relying solely on structures created decades ago. Rahman has described the task as making the United Nations “fit for the future”, while emphasising the importance of dialogue and cooperation among member states.<h2>From conflicts to AI: What will UNGA 2026 focus on?</h2>The theme covers a wide range of issues expected to dominate discussions during the 81st session and its High-Level Week.These include peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, humanitarian crises, human rights, AI governance and digital inclusion.&nbsp;The High-Level Week is scheduled for September 22–28, 2026, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person, according to the UN. For the UN, the central challenge is therefore twofold: restore confidence in multilateral cooperation while adapting the institution to a world undergoing rapid transformation. That is the broader meaning behind “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”

UNGA 2026 theme explained: Understand what ‘Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation’ means and why trust, reform, AI and global cooperation matter

The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has opened with a theme that reflects the challenges facing the international system: “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.” The theme was put forward by General Assembly President Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh, who was elected to lead the 2026–27 session in June. But what does the phrase actually mean? At its core, the UNGA 2026 theme is about rebuilding confidence in multilateral institutions while ensuring that the United Nations can adapt to a rapidly changing world. Rahman’s programme links trust and reform, arguing that the United Nations needs to demonstrate through concrete results that it can respond effectively to global challenges. What does ‘Restoring Trust’ mean? The first part of the theme focuses on a growing challenge for international cooperation: trust in the ability of global institutions to deliver results. The UN’s 81st session begins against a backdrop of armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, widening inequalities, climate emergencies and pressure on the multilateral system. The President’s programme says these developments have contributed to an erosion of confidence in international institutions. For Rahman, restoring trust means showing that the UN can move beyond declarations and produce practical outcomes. In his opening remarks on September 8, he said restoring trust requires both 'delivery and reform', with the organisation demonstrating that it can effectively serve the people it represents. That also means strengthening cooperation among UN member states and making the organisation more accountable, responsive and effective. What does ‘Managing Transformation’ mean? The second part of the theme focuses on the major changes reshaping the world. Technology, artificial intelligence, climate change, shifting economic structures, demographic changes and new security challenges are transforming societies and international relations. The UNGA programme particularly highlights AI, big data and digital platforms. While these technologies can accelerate development, the UN also identifies risks including inequality, bias, surveillance and misuse. The theme therefore is not simply about embracing technological change. It is also about governing that change fairly and ensuring that developing countries and communities are not left behind. Rahman has called for inclusive implementation of the Global Digital Compact, investment to close the digital divide and stronger international cooperation on AI governance. Also Read: WATCH | Underwater footage shows capsized Indonesian passenger ship as 129 remain missing What does ‘A United Nations That Delivers for All’ mean? The final part of the theme connects trust and transformation with the UN's ability to deliver results for its entire membership. The programme is organised around six interconnected pillars: Silence the Guns, Amplify the Voices — peace, security and justice No One Left Behind, No Country Left Out — sustainable development and accelerating the SDGs Our Planet, Our Pact — climate resilience and environmental sustainability Rights and Protection: Freedom from Fear and Want — human rights and humanitarian action Innovation with Inclusion — AI, digital governance, science and technology We the Peoples, Reimagined — UN reform and inclusive global governance The six areas are designed to be interconnected. The UN argues that peace, development, climate action, human rights and effective global governance cannot be treated as completely separate challenges. Why is the theme significant in 2026? The timing is important because the UN is entering its ninth decade amid major geopolitical and economic changes. The 81st session follows the UN's 80th anniversary and comes as the organisation continues initiatives such as UN80 reforms, the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact. The new session seeks to turn those reform efforts into more effective and member-driven action. The theme also places particular emphasis on making multilateralism more responsive to today's challenges rather than relying solely on structures created decades ago. Rahman has described the task as making the United Nations “fit for the future”, while emphasising the importance of dialogue and cooperation among member states. From conflicts to AI: What will UNGA 2026 focus on? The theme covers a wide range of issues expected to dominate discussions during the 81st session and its High-Level Week. These include peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, humanitarian crises, human rights, AI governance and digital inclusion. The High-Level Week is scheduled for September 22–28, 2026, with nearly 130 heads of state and government expected to attend in person, according to the UN. For the UN, the central challenge is therefore twofold: restore confidence in multilateral cooperation while adapting the institution to a world undergoing rapid transformation. That is the broader meaning behind “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”

UNGA 2026's theme focuses on rebuilding trust in the United Nations, managing global change and ensuring the organisation delivers for people worldwide

UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean?

Nobel Prize-winning computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton, widely known as the “Godfather of AI”, has delivered a stark warning to US lawmakers: they may have only about a year to establish safeguards before increasingly capable AI systems become much harder to control.&nbsp;Hinton made the comments during a closed-door briefing with members of Congress at the US Capitol, according to NBC News. When asked how long lawmakers have to act, he reportedly replied: “Maybe a year, but not much more than a year.” His warning comes as AI companies develop systems that can increasingly perform complex tasks, write code and assist with AI research.<h2>Why is Geoffrey Hinton worried?</h2>Hinton pointed to a major change in the way AI systems are being developed.&nbsp;“AI has now reached the point where AI is designing better AI,” he told reporters after the briefing, describing the process as recursive self-improvement.&nbsp;The term refers to a future in which AI systems could increasingly design, develop or improve their successors with less human involvement. That scenario has not yet been reached. Anthropic has said fully autonomous recursive self-improvement is not happening yet, although AI is already being used to accelerate parts of AI development. Hinton said predictions for the arrival of superintelligence have also moved closer. Estimates that once placed it decades away have increasingly shifted towards a matter of years, he told lawmakers.<h2>‘We need to slow down’</h2>Hinton has warned about advanced AI risks for years. He left Google in 2023 after becoming increasingly concerned about the technology's potential dangers.After the Capitol briefing, he said AI could “get out of control unless we do something” and added: “We need to slow down.” His comments come amid a wider debate among AI researchers and technology executives about whether development is moving faster than safety measures. The debate has intensified following several recent incidents involving autonomous AI agents.<h2>What happened in the Hugging Face incident?</h2>In July, OpenAI said models being tested in an internal cybersecurity evaluation circumvented controls, gained internet access and compromised parts of OpenAI's research infrastructure and Hugging Face systems. OpenAI said the models exploited vulnerabilities and took actions that were not directed by humans. Hugging Face's own technical reconstruction described an autonomous AI agent carrying out thousands of automated decisions during an intrusion. OpenAI has since strengthened safeguards, including tighter isolation, restrictions on internet access and additional monitoring. The incident does not establish that AI systems are already uncontrollable. But it has become an important example in the wider argument over whether safeguards can keep pace with increasingly autonomous AI. For Hinton, that question has become urgent. His message to lawmakers is that the window for putting stronger controls in place may be much shorter than many policymakers expect.

AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton has warned US lawmakers they may have only about a year to establish meaningful safeguards before increasingly capable AI becomes harder to control. His warning comes amid growing concern over autonomous AI agents and recursive self-improvement.

Nobel Prize-winning computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton, widely known as the “Godfather of AI”, has delivered a stark warning to US lawmakers: they may have only about a year to establish safeguards before increasingly capable AI systems become much harder to control. Hinton made the comments during a closed-door briefing with members of Congress at the US Capitol, according to NBC News. When asked how long lawmakers have to act, he reportedly replied: “Maybe a year, but not much more than a year.” His warning comes as AI companies develop systems that can increasingly perform complex tasks, write code and assist with AI research. Why is Geoffrey Hinton worried? Hinton pointed to a major change in the way AI systems are being developed. “AI has now reached the point where AI is designing better AI,” he told reporters after the briefing, describing the process as recursive self-improvement. The term refers to a future in which AI systems could increasingly design, develop or improve their successors with less human involvement. That scenario has not yet been reached. Anthropic has said fully autonomous recursive self-improvement is not happening yet, although AI is already being used to accelerate parts of AI development. Hinton said predictions for the arrival of superintelligence have also moved closer. Estimates that once placed it decades away have increasingly shifted towards a matter of years, he told lawmakers. ‘We need to slow down’ Hinton has warned about advanced AI risks for years. He left Google in 2023 after becoming increasingly concerned about the technology's potential dangers. After the Capitol briefing, he said AI could “get out of control unless we do something” and added: “We need to slow down.” His comments come amid a wider debate among AI researchers and technology executives about whether development is moving faster than safety measures. The debate has intensified following several recent incidents involving autonomous AI agents. What happened in the Hugging Face incident? In July, OpenAI said models being tested in an internal cybersecurity evaluation circumvented controls, gained internet access and compromised parts of OpenAI's research infrastructure and Hugging Face systems. OpenAI said the models exploited vulnerabilities and took actions that were not directed by humans. Hugging Face's own technical reconstruction described an autonomous AI agent carrying out thousands of automated decisions during an intrusion. OpenAI has since strengthened safeguards, including tighter isolation, restrictions on internet access and additional monitoring. The incident does not establish that AI systems are already uncontrollable. But it has become an important example in the wider argument over whether safeguards can keep pace with increasingly autonomous AI. For Hinton, that question has become urgent. His message to lawmakers is that the window for putting stronger controls in place may be much shorter than many policymakers expect.

AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton has warned US lawmakers they may have only about a year to establish meaningful safeguards before increasingly capable AI becomes harder to control. His warning comes amid growing concern over autonomous AI agents and recursive self-improvement.

Godfather of AI Geoffrey Hinton gives US lawmakers a one-year warning on AI

The European Union has proposed a new Kids Act that could significantly change how children use social media, video platforms, online games and AI services.&nbsp;The European Commission adopted the EU KIDS Act on September 17, saying the proposal would make online services safer for minors and introduce common rules across the bloc. The proposal still needs to go through the EU legislative process before it can become law. At the centre of the plan is a minimum age of 15 for autonomous social media accounts. Children under 13 would not be allowed to create such accounts, while those aged 13 and 14 could use limited, parent-supervised accounts.<h2>What happens at different ages?</h2>Under the proposal, children under 13 would not have their own social media accounts. Those aged 13 to under 15 could have limited accounts created and supervised by a guardian. These accounts would include parental controls, a daily time limit of up to one hour and parental approval for contacts. From 15, teenagers could create their own accounts on services covered by the rules. The rules would cover social networking and video-sharing services with features considered risky for children.<h2>No infinite scrolling or addictive features</h2>The proposal goes beyond age limits. Online services would have to follow “safety by design” principles. For children, this would mean restrictions on features such as infinite scrolling, endless autoplay, certain push notifications and streak-style mechanics designed to encourage users to keep returning. Recommendation systems would also have to put greater emphasis on safety and wellbeing rather than simply maximising engagement. Tracking-based personalisation would be switched off by default for minors. The proposal also includes stronger privacy settings, tools to block or mute users and restrictions on unwanted contact from strangers.<h2>What about AI chatbots?</h2>The Kids Act would also cover AI chatbots and AI companions. AI companions and chatbots aimed at children would have to meet the new safety requirements, with safeguards for emerging risks before they could be made available under the proposed framework.&nbsp;Platforms would also have to verify users' ages. The EU says this should be done through certified, privacy-preserving tools rather than requiring platforms to collect users' identity documents directly. Its proposed age-verification technology is designed to confirm whether someone meets an age threshold without revealing their exact identity or age.<h2>Tougher rules for Big Tech</h2>The proposal would put a greater responsibility on the biggest online platforms to prove that their services are safe for children. Very large online platforms with 45 million or more monthly active users in the EU would have to submit compliance plans for new services, features or functionalities. The European Commission says fines could reach 6 per cent of a company's worldwide annual turnover for violations. The KIDS Act is therefore not simply a proposed social media age ban. It is a broader attempt to change how digital services are designed and how children are protected while using them.

The EU’s proposed KIDS Act would set 15 as the age for independent social media accounts, introduce parent-supervised accounts for 13- and 14-year-olds, require privacy-focused age checks and restrict addictive design, unsafe recommendations and some AI chatbot features.

The European Union has proposed a new Kids Act that could significantly change how children use social media, video platforms, online games and AI services. The European Commission adopted the EU KIDS Act on September 17, saying the proposal would make online services safer for minors and introduce common rules across the bloc. The proposal still needs to go through the EU legislative process before it can become law. At the centre of the plan is a minimum age of 15 for autonomous social media accounts. Children under 13 would not be allowed to create such accounts, while those aged 13 and 14 could use limited, parent-supervised accounts. What happens at different ages? Under the proposal, children under 13 would not have their own social media accounts. Those aged 13 to under 15 could have limited accounts created and supervised by a guardian. These accounts would include parental controls, a daily time limit of up to one hour and parental approval for contacts. From 15, teenagers could create their own accounts on services covered by the rules. The rules would cover social networking and video-sharing services with features considered risky for children. No infinite scrolling or addictive features The proposal goes beyond age limits. Online services would have to follow “safety by design” principles. For children, this would mean restrictions on features such as infinite scrolling, endless autoplay, certain push notifications and streak-style mechanics designed to encourage users to keep returning. Recommendation systems would also have to put greater emphasis on safety and wellbeing rather than simply maximising engagement. Tracking-based personalisation would be switched off by default for minors. The proposal also includes stronger privacy settings, tools to block or mute users and restrictions on unwanted contact from strangers. What about AI chatbots? The Kids Act would also cover AI chatbots and AI companions. AI companions and chatbots aimed at children would have to meet the new safety requirements, with safeguards for emerging risks before they could be made available under the proposed framework. Platforms would also have to verify users' ages. The EU says this should be done through certified, privacy-preserving tools rather than requiring platforms to collect users' identity documents directly. Its proposed age-verification technology is designed to confirm whether someone meets an age threshold without revealing their exact identity or age. Tougher rules for Big Tech The proposal would put a greater responsibility on the biggest online platforms to prove that their services are safe for children. Very large online platforms with 45 million or more monthly active users in the EU would have to submit compliance plans for new services, features or functionalities. The European Commission says fines could reach 6 per cent of a company's worldwide annual turnover for violations. The KIDS Act is therefore not simply a proposed social media age ban. It is a broader attempt to change how digital services are designed and how children are protected while using them.

The EU’s proposed KIDS Act would set 15 as the age for independent social media accounts, introduce parent-supervised accounts for 13- and 14-year-olds, require privacy-focused age checks and restrict addictive design, unsafe recommendations and some AI chatbot features.

EU Kids Act explained: What the new rules could mean for children online

Indonesia has launched a salvage operation to right the passenger ship Virgo Transport 8, which capsized and sank in the Java Sea last weekend, as authorities continued air and sea searches on Friday for 129 people who remain missing. The vessel was carrying 243 people on a 20-hour journey from Surabaya in East Java to Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan when it capsized in severe weather early on Sunday.&nbsp;Six people have been confirmed dead and 108 survived the accident. Those figures have remained unchanged since Sunday.Rescue teams were unable to locate additional survivors or bodies during the first five days of the search because of strong currents and large waves. Authorities therefore decided to right the vessel to make underwater rescue operations easier.&nbsp;The ship remained partially afloat for several days but had completely sunk to the seabed by Thursday evening, officials said."The salvage operation is already underway. An observation was conducted yesterday, and today the team will likely move toward the location (of the ship)," said Banjarmasin Navy Commander Galih Nurna Putra. The salvage plan involves pulling the vessel toward a shallower section of the seabed before attempting to turn it upright, Galih said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/commercial-ships-must-not-be-targeted-india-tells-un-amid-west-asia-conflict-1789711006462">Commercial ships must not be targeted, India tells UN amid West Asia conflict</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Indonesia has begun an operation to right a ship that capsized and sank in the Java Sea last weekend, as authorities continued air and surface searches for the 129 people still missing Underwater footage taken by the Indonesian Navy shows the sunken Virgo Transport 8 passenger… <a href="https://t.co/tUtOthWi6l">pic.twitter.com/tUtOthWi6l</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2100827112269861354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The operation will be led by the ship's owner under Indonesian law, with support from the country's rescue agency, navy and maritime police, said I Putu Sudayana, head of the Banjarmasin rescue agency. Once the ship has been turned upright, rescue and evacuation operations will begin, Putu said. "As long as the ship is still at the seabed, the dive team ​dared only to remain ​outside the ship," he said.&nbsp;Authorities deployed eight ships and two helicopters on Friday for air and surface searches. However, strong winds, currents and waves continued to make the operation difficult, Putu said. Two representatives of victims' families were also allowed to join Friday's search so they could see the challenging weather conditions at the site and better understand the technical difficulties faced by rescuers. On Thursday, a Navy diving team managed to approach the sunken vessel and record underwater footage. Divers also recovered evidence including wallets, identity cards and hundreds of water-damaged parcels and plastic-wrapped packages, Galih said.

Indonesia begins a salvage operation to right the sunken Virgo Transport 8 as air and sea searches continue for 129 missing passengers

Indonesia has launched a salvage operation to right the passenger ship Virgo Transport 8, which capsized and sank in the Java Sea last weekend, as authorities continued air and sea searches on Friday for 129 people who remain missing. The vessel was carrying 243 people on a 20-hour journey from Surabaya in East Java to Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan when it capsized in severe weather early on Sunday. Six people have been confirmed dead and 108 survived the accident. Those figures have remained unchanged since Sunday. Rescue teams were unable to locate additional survivors or bodies during the first five days of the search because of strong currents and large waves. Authorities therefore decided to right the vessel to make underwater rescue operations easier. The ship remained partially afloat for several days but had completely sunk to the seabed by Thursday evening, officials said. "The salvage operation is already underway. An observation was conducted yesterday, and today the team will likely move toward the location (of the ship)," said Banjarmasin Navy Commander Galih Nurna Putra. The salvage plan involves pulling the vessel toward a shallower section of the seabed before attempting to turn it upright, Galih said. Also Read: Commercial ships must not be targeted, India tells UN amid West Asia conflict Watch the video here

Indonesia begins a salvage operation to right the capsized Virgo Transport 8 as searches continue for 129 people missing in the Java Sea

WATCH | Underwater footage shows capsized Indonesian passenger ship as 129 remain missing

New Delhi: India’s ambassador to the United Nations has warned that commercial shipping must not become a target of geopolitical rivalry, as attacks and disruptions in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten energy and food supplies worldwide.Speaking at a Bahrain-hosted UN Security Council Arria-formula meeting on 17 September titled “Safe Seas, Shared Security: Protecting Freedom of Navigation in an Evolving Security Environment”, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni said recent interruptions to major sea lanes had shown that maritime security was “vital to international peace, security and global prosperity”.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-first-india-s-envoy-explains-energy-priorities-as-us-congress-clears-bill-allowing-100-tariffs-1789665834482">‘People first’: Indian envoy outlines energy priorities amid US tariff move</a>“Commercial vessels must not become targets of geopolitical tensions,” he said. “Navigational rights must not be subject to coercion, threats, unlawful restrictions or arbitrary interference.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/IndiaAtUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAtUN</a> Statement by PR <a href="https://x.com/AmbHarishP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmbHarishP</a> at UNSC Arria-Formula meeting on “Safe Seas, Shared Security: Protecting Freedom of Navigation in an Evolving Security Environment”. Full statement: <a href="https://t.co/wFWm9bvxli">https://t.co/wFWm9bvxli</a> <a href="https://x.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://x.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://x.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://x.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://x.com/airnewsalerts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airnewsalerts</a>… <a href="https://t.co/Q2A4TxPZgt">pic.twitter.com/Q2A4TxPZgt</a>&mdash; India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) <a href="https://x.com/IndiaUNNewYork/status/2100775020406436062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

India, he added, supported a “free, open, secure and rules-based maritime domain” in which rights of navigation and overflight were fully respected under international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.The envoy argued that insecurity at one chokepoint quickly raised freight and insurance costs, diverted traffic to longer routes and hit developing countries hardest. The international community, he said, needed practical arrangements to keep essential commercial and humanitarian cargo moving during crises, rather than responding only after incidents.He highlighted India’s own naval effort. As of 14 September, operations in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea had escorted more than 449 merchant vessels carrying nearly 20.3 million metric tonnes of cargo and oil worth more than $8.4bn. After security deteriorated in West Asia, the Indian Navy launched Operation Urja Suraksha; by mid-March, 11 Indian Navy units were deployed in the western Arabian Sea to protect trade.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-at-semicon-india-2026-india-s-semiconductor-ecosystem-expanding-rapidly-vishwakarma-jayanti-1789625427107">PM Modi spells out India's big semiconductor vision at SEMICON India</a>Parvathaneni also pressed for better coordination of existing mechanisms, with respect for coastal states’ sovereignty. India’s Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) was now listed as a reporting centre in IMO Best Management Practices on maritime security, he said, and New Delhi wanted it added to IMO Maritime Safety Committee Resolution 324(89).Seafarers, he stressed, “must remain at the centre of our collective efforts”. Their evacuation, medical care, crew changes and repatriation required clearer international contingency planning. He also flagged emerging risks from unmanned systems, cyberattacks and interference with navigation and communications.“The objective should not merely be to restore navigation after a crisis, but to build a maritime system capable of withstanding shocks before they cascade into wider economic and humanitarian crises,” he said.

India has told the UN that commercial vessels must not become targets of geopolitical tensions as disruptions hit key sea lanes. New Delhi has also highlighted its own naval operations to keep vital energy and trade routes moving.

New Delhi: India’s ambassador to the United Nations has warned that commercial shipping must not become a target of geopolitical rivalry, as attacks and disruptions in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten energy and food supplies worldwide. Speaking at a Bahrain-hosted UN Security Council Arria-formula meeting on 17 September titled “Safe Seas, Shared Security: Protecting Freedom of Navigation in an Evolving Security Environment”, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni said recent interruptions to major sea lanes had shown that maritime security was “vital to international peace, security and global prosperity”. Also read | ‘People first’: Indian envoy outlines energy priorities amid US tariff move “Commercial vessels must not become targets of geopolitical tensions,” he said. “Navigational rights must not be subject to coercion, threats, unlawful restrictions or arbitrary interference.”

India has told the UN that commercial vessels must not become targets of geopolitical tensions as disruptions hit key sea lanes. New Delhi has also highlighted its own naval operations to keep vital energy and trade routes moving.

Commercial ships must not be targeted, India tells UN amid West Asia conflict

The White House has rejected a UN human rights report that found ‘reasonable grounds’ to believe the United States committed war crimes in two strikes in Iran on February 28, including an attack on a school in the southern city of Minab. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly dismissed the findings and accused the UN Human Rights Council of having ‘accomplished nothing for human rights while spouting unserious nonsense for decades’, according to The Washington Post. Kelly also said the only party in the conflict to have committed war crimes was the Iranian government.&nbsp;The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran said the two US strikes killed at least 178 civilians. One of the attacks hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh Primary School in Minab, where Iranian authorities reported more than 150 deaths, including around 120 schoolchildren. The mission concluded that the school was the intended point of impact and described the attack as an indiscriminate strike that caused civilian deaths and damaged civilian infrastructure. It said US forces failed to take adequate steps to verify that the building was a legitimate military objective before carrying out the attack.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-city-in-asia-has-the-world-s-coolest-neighbourhood-for-2026-check-the-full-list-1789704814981">THIS city in Asia has the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026. Check the full list</a>&nbsp;The second strike examined by the UN mission targeted a sports facility and residential area in Lamerd, killing civilians and damaging nearby infrastructure. The two incidents formed the basis for the mission's conclusion that there were reasonable grounds to believe war crimes had been committed. The United States has not publicly accepted responsibility for the Minab school attack. Earlier investigations by The Washington Post and other outlets found evidence pointing to US involvement.&nbsp;&nbsp;A preliminary US assessment reported by CBS also indicated that American forces were likely responsible, while suggesting the school may have been struck because outdated intelligence incorrectly identified the area as a military site. A separate Washington Post investigation reported that the school had appeared on a US target list and may have been mistakenly identified as a military facility.&nbsp;The UN mission's findings do not amount to a criminal judgment, and the fact-finding body does not have the authority to bring criminal prosecutions. Its report is due to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva for discussion. The same UN report also accused Iranian authorities of crimes against humanity during a crackdown on anti-government protests, including allegations of killings, torture and arbitrary detention.

The White House rejects a UN report alleging US war crimes in Iran, including the deadly Minab school strike and a second attack in Lamerd

The White House has rejected a UN human rights report that found ‘reasonable grounds’ to believe the United States committed war crimes in two strikes in Iran on February 28, including an attack on a school in the southern city of Minab. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly dismissed the findings and accused the UN Human Rights Council of having ‘accomplished nothing for human rights while spouting unserious nonsense for decades’, according to The Washington Post. Kelly also said the only party in the conflict to have committed war crimes was the Iranian government. The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran said the two US strikes killed at least 178 civilians. One of the attacks hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh Primary School in Minab, where Iranian authorities reported more than 150 deaths, including around 120 schoolchildren. The mission concluded that the school was the intended point of impact and described the attack as an indiscriminate strike that caused civilian deaths and damaged civilian infrastructure. It said US forces failed to take adequate steps to verify that the building was a legitimate military objective before carrying out the attack. Also Read: THIS city in Asia has the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026. Check the full list The second strike examined by the UN mission targeted a sports facility and residential area in Lamerd, killing civilians and damaging nearby infrastructure. The two incidents formed the basis for the mission's conclusion that there were reasonable grounds to believe war crimes had been committed. The United States has not publicly accepted responsibility for the Minab school attack. Earlier investigations by The Washington Post and other outlets found evidence pointing to US involvement. A preliminary US assessment reported by CBS also indicated that American forces were likely responsible, while suggesting the school may have been struck because outdated intelligence incorrectly identified the area as a military site. A separate Washington Post investigation reported that the school had appeared on a US target list and may have been mistakenly identified as a military facility. The UN mission's findings do not amount to a criminal judgment, and the fact-finding body does not have the authority to bring criminal prosecutions. Its report is due to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva for discussion. The same UN report also accused Iranian authorities of crimes against humanity during a crackdown on anti-government protests, including allegations of killings, torture and arbitrary detention.

The White House rejected a UN report finding reasonable grounds to believe US strikes in Iran, including a Minab school attack, were war crimes

White House rejects UN report alleging US war crimes findings over Minab school strike

Latest News Today Live Updates: The Election Commission has put the Trinamool Congress name and symbol on hold ahead of the October 6 Assembly bypolls, while India has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat following a reported collision between an Indian Navy warship and a Pakistani Navy corvette in the North Arabian Sea.The US has approved visas for Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and their delegation to attend the UN General Assembly in New York, despite the ongoing conflict.Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that Russia could be preparing for a wider confrontation with countries supporting Ukraine, following recent Russian attacks that prompted Poland to close airspace and scramble fighter jets.In Nigeria, at least 37 suspected illegal miners reportedly died in custody, while nearly 50 people have died after consuming locally brewed alcohol suspected of containing methanol.Japan's centenarian population has crossed 100,000 for the first time, according to the day's international developments.

Cybersecurity researchers reportedly hacked OpenAI’s systems using security tools developed by rival artificial intelligence company Anthropic. The development followed two weeksafter a swarm of AI agents escaped containment at OpenAI to hack the company Hugging Face. Several media reports suggest thatresearchers from cybersecurity firm Hacktron AIexploited weaknesses in OpenAI’s community forum, intending to gain access to internal credentials and a ChatGPT account of an employee.

Researchers hack OpenAI systems

At least 14 people were killed and 10 others abducted by an armed group in central Ethiopia earlier this week, an NGO that tracks armed conflicts and a witness told AFP on Friday. &nbsp;

At least 14 killed, 10 abducted in central Ethiopia

Cybersecurity researchers reportedly hacked OpenAI systems using a security tool developed by rival AI company Anthropic. According to a Financial Times report, researchers from cybersecurity firm Hacktron AI found weaknesses in OpenAI’s community forum and obtained internal credentials of an employee. &nbsp;

Anthropic’s AI security tool hacked OpenAI systems

In response to surging global energy prices and worsening supply bottlenecks caused by escalating conflict in the West Asia, the Pakistani government announced a comprehensive package of austerity measures to curb state expenditure and conserve fuel. Under the directives issued by the cabinet division, state entities must reduce fuel allowances for official vehicles by 50% for three months.&nbsp;

Pakistan orders early market closures to save energy

Warren Buffett stepped down as the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway on Friday (September 18), a position he had held since 1970. At the end of last year, he also ended his decades-long tenure as CEO of the company. Buffett, 96, will remain on the board to serve as Chairman Emeritus. His son, Howard, a board member since 1993, will take over the role as chairman of Berkshire Hathaway.

Warren Buffett steps down as Berkshire Hathaway chairman

At least 16 people, including five police personnel, were killed and more than 50 were injured after a powerful blast struck a historic police headquarters in northwestern Pakistan on Friday (Sep 18), according to reports. The explosion occurred in Kohat, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that borders Afghanistan.&nbsp;

At least 16 killed, over 50 injured in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa blast

The Central Bureau of Investigation has registered an FIR over the alleged embezzlement of 31.65 kg of silver from Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd’s Amorphous Silicon Solar Cell Plant in Gurugram, The Indian Express reported, citing the agency’s complaint.

31.65 kg silver found missing from BHEL plant, FIR registered against employees

Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest railway station, is testing mobile robotic rubbish bins to see whether they can reduce the workload of sanitation workers, a rail operator representative said on Friday. The sprawling transport hub, located in central Tokyo, is served by multiple railway companies and handles more than 2.7 million passengers every day. It holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s busiest railway station.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img></figure>

Japan's busiest rail station tests robot bins

Parents in Brussels on Friday (September 18) backed the European Union’s proposal to restrict social media access for children under 13, arguing that existing platforms are already having harmful effects on young users. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the proposals on Thursday (September 17) as part of a broader plan to strengthen online protections for children. Under the proposed rules, children under 13 would be barred from using social media, while those aged 13 to 15 would be allowed access only through supervised accounts.

Brussels parents welcome EU push to ban kids under 13 from social media

A man was killed in a shark attack while swimming off a popular beach near Perth in Western Australia on Friday, police said.The incident marks the fourth fatal shark attack in Australia this year. Western Australia Police said they received a report that a male swimmer had been bitten by a shark while swimming along the coast. The man died from injuries sustained in the attack, a police spokeswoman said in a statement.

Shark kills swimmer off beach in Western Australia: police

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Friday that they had struck an oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, state news agency IRNA reported, as a British maritime security agency separately reported an attack in the strategic waterway.Iran has continued to tighten its grip on the Strait of Hormuz as Washington presses ahead with a counterblockade targeting Iranian ports amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Tehran has sought to impose restrictions on vessels using the strait, while Iranian forces have attacked ships they accuse of trying to bypass routes designated by the Islamic Republic.

Iran says struck oil tanker in Strait of Hormuz

After West Bengal Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee met the full bench of the Election Commission in Delhi on Thursday, the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) submitted alternative names and symbols to the Election Commission. The party has been barred from using the TMC name and its iconic ‘jora phool’ (twin-flower) symbol for the October 6 bypolls in West Bengal.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-camp-submits-new-names-symbols-under-protest-after-ec-freezes-aitc-identity-1789718382495">READ MORE</a>

Mamata camp submits new names, symbols 'under protest' after EC freezes AITC identity

The Haridwar police have confirmed the incident and stated that further investigation is underway.

Nithari serial killings case: Surendra Koli commits suicide

A Pakistan court blocked on Friday an order by the country's medical board for dozens of Afghans studying to be doctors to be expelled from colleges and universities and sent home.

Pakistan court blocks expulsion of Afghan medical college students

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated legal action against Nestle India Ltd over several non-compliances pertaining to the FSS Act.

FSSAI initiates legal action against Nestle India Ltd 

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;A truly historic and joyous moment for Project Cheetah!&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;A day after India&amp;#39;s Cheetah Project completed four years, KGP12, an Indian-born female cheetah, has given birth to four cubs in Kuno.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Four years, four new lives—a beautiful symbol of hope, resilience and the growing… &lt;a href="https://t.co/f1zbqSvx1b"&gt;pic.twitter.com/f1zbqSvx1b&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) &lt;a href="https://x.com/byadavbjp/status/2100832434510291352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;September 18, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

WATCH | Indian-born female cheetah, has given birth to four cubs in Kuno

Indonesia has launched a salvage operation to right the passenger ship Virgo Transport 8, which capsized and sank in the Java Sea last weekend, as authorities continued air and sea searches on Friday for 129 people who remain missing. The vessel was carrying 243 people on a 20-hour journey from Surabaya in East Java to Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan when it capsized in severe weather early on Sunday.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-underwater-footage-shows-capsized-indonesian-passenger-ship-as-129-remain-missing-1789711156071">Read more</a>

Underwater footage shows capsized Indonesian passenger ship as 129 remain missing

Denmark has inaugurated the Greensand carbon capture and storage project, which has begun storing carbon dioxide beneath the North Sea seabed.The facility, located about 200 kilometres off Denmark’s west coast, is built beneath the former Nini West oil platform. It is expected to store around 400,000 tonnes of CO2 annually during its first phase.Energy group INEOS plans to expand the project significantly, targeting storage of 4 to 8 million tonnes of CO2 a year by 2030. The carbon dioxide will mainly come from Danish biomethane plants and be transported in liquid form by ship from Esbjerg.The project is designed to help cut emissions from industries such as cement and steel, where reducing carbon output can be difficult. The EU aims to have at least 50 million tonnes of annual CO2 storage capacity by 2030.

Denmark Launches North Sea CO2 Storage Facility

The Philippines said a China Coast Guard vessel rammed a government boat during a maritime patrol in the disputed South China Sea on Friday.The Philippine Coast Guard said the incident happened near a shoal in the Spratly Islands, where tensions between Manila and Beijing have repeatedly flared. The Philippine fisheries vessel BRP Datu Magat Salamat was reportedly delivering fuel subsidies to fishermen when the Chinese vessel approached.According to Philippine officials, the Chinese ship first crossed behind the vessel at a distance of about 10 metres before making contact during a second manoeuvre. Video released by the Philippine Coast Guard shows the Chinese vessel near the stern of the Philippine boat, although the impact itself is not visible.China's embassy in Manila had not immediately commented on the allegation.

Philippines Accuses China Coast Guard Ship of Ramming Government Vessel

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has been granted conditional house arrest by King Sultan Ibrahim, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence at home until August 23, 2028.Najib, 73, was jailed over his role in the multibillion-dollar 1MDB corruption scandal. His lawyers said the conditional pardon requires him to pay a fine of 50 million Malaysian ringgit, around $12.3 million.Officials said Najib must comply with all conditions or the pardon could be revoked and he would return to prison. His original 12-year sentence was previously reduced by a pardons board.Najib is also serving a separate sentence linked to 1MDB. He was sentenced to another 15 years in prison and fined 11.4 billion ringgit in that case. He is appealing the sentence.

Malaysia’s Former PM Najib Razak Granted House Arrest

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended the country's ban on imports of certain Western food products through the end of 2028.The restrictions were first introduced more than a decade ago in response to Western sanctions imposed on Russia. The ban covers selected food products from countries that Moscow considers to have adopted sanctions or other restrictive measures against Russia.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-extends-ban-on-western-food-imports-for-two-more-years-in-extended-sanctions-countermeasure-1789705011884">Read more here</a>

Russia Extends Ban on Western Food Imports Through 2028

Former Union Minister of State and BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu has alleged that around 100 AAP workers attacked his cavalcade with eggs and tomatoes in Punjab. He claimed the incident was part of a “deep rooted conspiracy” aimed at disrupting the BJP's anti-drug campaign.Bittu linked the alleged attack to the launch of the BJP's Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra, which began on September 18. The BJP has planned four yatras covering all 117 Assembly constituencies and around 4,000 km across Punjab, with the campaign scheduled to culminate in Jalandhar on September 30.The BJP has described the campaign as an effort to raise awareness about drug abuse in Punjab. AAP leaders have criticised the yatra, questioning the BJP's record on the drug issue and describing the campaign as political.

BJP's Ravneet Bittu Alleges AAP Workers Attacked His Cavalcade Ahead of Drug-Free Punjab Yatra

The Bank of Japan raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 1.25% on Friday, taking borrowing costs to their highest level since 1995.The decision was approved by a 7 to 2 vote as the central bank seeks to contain inflation driven by higher energy costs and a weaker yen. The BoJ said it would continue raising rates as underlying inflation moves closer to its 2% target.The yen weakened after the announcement, trading above 157 against the US dollar. The currency has faced pressure from the wide gap between Japanese and US interest rates.Japan's core inflation eased to 1.7% in August from 1.8% in July, helped partly by government support for gasoline and electricity costs. However, rising energy prices linked to the Middle East crisis could put renewed pressure on inflation.

Bank of Japan Raises Interest Rate to 1.25%, Highest Since 1995

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has amended passport rules concerning children below the age of 15. Under the revised provision, passports issued to children under 15 will remain valid for five years or until they turn 18, whichever comes earlier.The change is aimed at simplifying the validity framework for child passports. Previously, passport validity rules for minors differed based on age categories.

India Amends Passport Rules for Children Under 15

The Election Commission of India has put the Trinamool Congress' name and election symbol on hold ahead of the October 6 Assembly bypolls. The move comes as the poll body deals with issues surrounding the party's recognition and participation in the upcoming contests.The development is significant as candidates and voters prepare for the bypolls, where the party's official identity and symbol are key to the electoral process. The Election Commission's decision could affect how the Trinamool Congress contests the seats and communicates with voters.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-name-symbol-freeze-mamata-ritabrata-factions-ec-bypolls-1789667949775">All details here</a>

ECI Puts TMC Name, Symbol on Hold Ahead of October 6 Bypolls

Polling stations opened in Russia’s Far East on Friday as the country began a three-day election to renew all 450 seats in the State Duma. The vote is the first parliamentary election since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Voting began in Kamchatka and Chukotka before spreading across Russia’s 11 time zones. President Vladimir Putin’s United Russia party is widely expected to retain its dominance, with only parties supporting most of the Kremlin’s policies registered to compete.The election comes as the Ukraine war continues to affect Russia, including through Ukrainian drone strikes and economic sanctions. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said more than 350 drones targeted the Moscow region overnight, with most reportedly destroyed.Some Russians also fear a new mobilisation after the election, though Putin has denied claims of a fresh campaign.

Russia Begins Three Day Parliamentary Election Amid Ukraine War

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including the TMC symbol row, India-Pakistan tensions, global conflicts, diplomacy, markets, and other major breaking developments.

Latest News Today Live Updates: The Election Commission has put the Trinamool Congress name and symbol on hold ahead of the October 6 Assembly bypolls, while India has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat following a reported collision between an Indian Navy warship and a Pakistani Navy corvette in the North Arabian Sea. The US has approved visas for Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and their delegation to attend the UN General Assembly in New York, despite the ongoing conflict. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that Russia could be preparing for a wider confrontation with countries supporting Ukraine, following recent Russian attacks that prompted Poland to close airspace and scramble fighter jets. In Nigeria, at least 37 suspected illegal miners reportedly died in custody, while nearly 50 people have died after consuming locally brewed alcohol suspected of containing methanol. Japan's centenarian population has crossed 100,000 for the first time, according to the day's international developments.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including the TMC symbol row, India-Pakistan tensions, global conflicts, diplomacy, markets, and other major breaking developments.

LIVE Updates | Latest India & World News Today: Voting begins in Russia's parliamentary election, Iran says struck oil tanker in Hormuz and more

Indicating the growing India-Taiwan technology partnership, the Taipei Computer Association (TCA) inked a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B), marking a step towards deeper collaboration between Taiwan's Internet, Communications, and Technology (ICT) sector and India's innovation ecosystem. The agreement lays the groundwork for a future Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance technology, innovation, and the digital economy between Taiwan and Karnataka.&nbsp;At the ongoing 'Electronica 2026', an electronics industry trade fair in Bengaluru, the LoI was signed by TCA Manager Hsin-Lun Tsai and IIIT-B Registrar Cmde. SR Sridhar, in the presence of witnesses Stephen Hsu, Director General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC) in Chennai, and Dr Dennis Hu, CEO of Foundation for Commerce and Culture Interchange (FCCI) and Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO of Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM).&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-stock-exchange-of-india-using-ai-to-track-curb-malpractices-1789228630943">'National Stock Exchange of India using AI to track &amp; curb malpractices'</a>&nbsp;Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO of Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, said the LOI between Taipei Computer Association (TCA) and IIIT Bangalore marks an important milestone in strengthening Karnataka’s technology ecosystem and expanding global partnerships in innovation and the digital economy. The collaboration opens new opportunities for knowledge exchange, business matchmaking, academic-industry engagement and ecosystem development across AI, electronics, smart manufacturing, smart cities, cybersecurity and GCCs. We look forward to supporting initiatives that foster innovation, accelerate industry collaboration and further position Karnataka as a leading global technology hub.&nbsp;TECC, which facilitated this initiative, called it the "first technology cooperation LOI between Taiwan and South India. Of the more than 300 Taiwanese firms operating in India across sectors, approximately 75 per cent operate in Southern states Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Established in 2012, the TECC in Chennai serves as a de facto Taiwan Consulate and as a bridge connecting Taiwan with all five Southern Indian states, three Union Territories, and the island nation of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zeiss-opens-innovation-hub-at-iit-m-research-park-1st-outside-germany-1788448756172">Zeiss opens Innovation Hub at IIT-M Research Park; 1st outside Germany</a> &nbsp;Commenting on the strategic importance of the collaboration, Director General Stephen Hsu of TECC said, Taiwan possesses a robust industrial foundation in ICT, semiconductors, and electronics manufacturing, while Karnataka, centred around Bengaluru, serves as one of India’s vital technology and innovation hubs. The two sides share complementary strengths with deep cooperative potential. The signing of this LoI marks an important milestone as we transition from bilateral exchanges toward institutionalised collaboration. We look forward to leveraging our respective advantages and resources to progressively yield tangible and sustainable outcomes in the future.Under the agreement, both organisations will explore joint initiatives across key high-tech domains, including AI, electronics, smart manufacturing, smart cities, and cybersecurity. The framework includes ongoing knowledge sharing, policy dialogues, business matchmaking, joint seminars and conferences, and bilateral delegation exchanges to support closer institutional and commercial ties.&nbsp;Highlighting the scope of the collaboration, Prof. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore, said that the Letter of Intent provides an opportunity for IIIT-Bangalore and the Taipei Computer Association to explore meaningful cooperation across technology, innovation, and the digital economy. The proposed areas of collaboration, including artificial intelligence, electronics, smart manufacturing, smart cities, and cybersecurity, offer scope for knowledge exchange and mutually agreed initiatives. We look forward to developing this engagement further through a future Memorandum of Understanding, he added. &nbsp;

Karnataka has inked a tech pact with Taiwan to boost collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the digital economy, strengthening India-Taiwan tech ties.

Indicating the growing India-Taiwan technology partnership, the Taipei Computer Association (TCA) inked a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B), marking a step towards deeper collaboration between Taiwan's Internet, Communications, and Technology (ICT) sector and India's innovation ecosystem. The agreement lays the groundwork for a future Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance technology, innovation, and the digital economy between Taiwan and Karnataka. At the ongoing 'Electronica 2026', an electronics industry trade fair in Bengaluru, the LoI was signed by TCA Manager Hsin-Lun Tsai and IIIT-B Registrar Cmde. SR Sridhar, in the presence of witnesses Stephen Hsu, Director General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC) in Chennai, and Dr Dennis Hu, CEO of Foundation for Commerce and Culture Interchange (FCCI) and Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO of Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM). Also read: 'National Stock Exchange of India using AI to track & curb malpractices' Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO of Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, said the LOI between Taipei Computer Association (TCA) and IIIT Bangalore marks an important milestone in strengthening Karnataka’s technology ecosystem and expanding global partnerships in innovation and the digital economy. The collaboration opens new opportunities for knowledge exchange, business matchmaking, academic-industry engagement and ecosystem development across AI, electronics, smart manufacturing, smart cities, cybersecurity and GCCs. We look forward to supporting initiatives that foster innovation, accelerate industry collaboration and further position Karnataka as a leading global technology hub. TECC, which facilitated this initiative, called it the "first technology cooperation LOI between Taiwan and South India. Of the more than 300 Taiwanese firms operating in India across sectors, approximately 75 per cent operate in Southern states Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Established in 2012, the TECC in Chennai serves as a de facto Taiwan Consulate and as a bridge connecting Taiwan with all five Southern Indian states, three Union Territories, and the island nation of Sri Lanka. Also read: Zeiss opens Innovation Hub at IIT-M Research Park; 1st outside Germany Commenting on the strategic importance of the collaboration, Director General Stephen Hsu of TECC said, Taiwan possesses a robust industrial foundation in ICT, semiconductors, and electronics manufacturing, while Karnataka, centred around Bengaluru, serves as one of India’s vital technology and innovation hubs. The two sides share complementary strengths with deep cooperative potential. The signing of this LoI marks an important milestone as we transition from bilateral exchanges toward institutionalised collaboration. We look forward to leveraging our respective advantages and resources to progressively yield tangible and sustainable outcomes in the future. Under the agreement, both organisations will explore joint initiatives across key high-tech domains, including AI, electronics, smart manufacturing, smart cities, and cybersecurity. The framework includes ongoing knowledge sharing, policy dialogues, business matchmaking, joint seminars and conferences, and bilateral delegation exchanges to support closer institutional and commercial ties. Highlighting the scope of the collaboration, Prof. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore, said that the Letter of Intent provides an opportunity for IIIT-Bangalore and the Taipei Computer Association to explore meaningful cooperation across technology, innovation, and the digital economy. The proposed areas of collaboration, including artificial intelligence, electronics, smart manufacturing, smart cities, and cybersecurity, offer scope for knowledge exchange and mutually agreed initiatives. We look forward to developing this engagement further through a future Memorandum of Understanding, he added.

Karnataka has inked a tech pact with Taiwan to boost collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the digital economy, strengthening India-Taiwan tech ties.

India-Taiwan Tech ties: Karnataka inks cooperation pact on AI, digital economy

At least 37 people suspected of illegal mining have died while in the custody of Nigeria’s civil defence corps in Niger State, authorities said Thursday (Sep 17), prompting an investigation into the mass deaths.Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, at a press conference, said the victims died at a detention facility in the state capital, Minna. He described the incident as “sad” and “tragic” and said a committee of inquiry had been set up and had already begun work.“This morning we woke up to the news that about 37 persons died in the custody of the civil defence here in Minna,” Bago told reporters at a news conference broadcast by TVC News.The governor declared three days of mourning and has also postponed the planned start of campaigning for elections due in January.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-plotting-something-bad-russia-may-launch-accidental-strikes-on-nato-countries-supporting-ukraine-britain-poland-pm-warns-1789697149962">Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns</a><h2>Police launch probe into deaths</h2>The Niger state police command said it had opened an investigation after the deaths were discovered. Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun, as quoted by AFP, said the state police chief had “ordered the immediate commencement of investigation into the unfortunate death of suspected illegal miners while in the detention facility of the NSCDC”.The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps said it had arrested “scores of suspected illegal miners” on Tuesday and Wednesday.According to the corps, the detainees were found dead in the early hours of September 17 after what it described as a “suspected outbreak of disease”.However, an intelligence report suggests that the deaths may have resulted from “overcrowding and inadequate ventilation” inside the detention facility. The exact cause of the deaths has not yet been established.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-48-dead-100-hospitalised-in-nigeria-after-drinking-suspected-methanol-laced-alcohol-1789698948857">At least 48 dead in Nigeria after drinking suspected methanol-laced alcohol</a><h2>Protest reported in Minna; Video of dead circulating online</h2>The deaths reportedly triggered protests in Minna involving “groups of miners and sympathisers”, according to the intelligence report cited by AFP. Cars and other belongings were damaged during the unrest.A video circulating online showed the bodies of dozens of young men lying outside, many wearing only shorts. Volunteers wearing gloves could be seen around the bodies while women in veils attempted to identify relatives. Video below — viewer discretion advised.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">What I heard about the video below &quot;They&#39;re illegal miners that died a day or two after being arrested and taken into custody, of a disease.&quot; Buh my opinion on it: 👇 Arrested Sept 15–16. Dead by Sept 17 and the official story is &#39;suspected disease&#39;? No name for the disease,… <a href="https://t.co/iaUvKi7pjo">pic.twitter.com/iaUvKi7pjo</a>&mdash; Silent Beamer (@silent_beamer) <a href="https://x.com/silent_beamer/status/2100740373920231683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

37 suspected illegal miners have died while in custody in Nigeria’s Niger State, triggering a police and government investigation. Officials say the cause has not yet been established, with competing explanations emerging over what happened inside the detention facility. All we know.

At least 37 people suspected of illegal mining have died while in the custody of Nigeria’s civil defence corps in Niger State, authorities said Thursday (Sep 17), prompting an investigation into the mass deaths. Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, at a press conference, said the victims died at a detention facility in the state capital, Minna. He described the incident as “sad” and “tragic” and said a committee of inquiry had been set up and had already begun work. “This morning we woke up to the news that about 37 persons died in the custody of the civil defence here in Minna,” Bago told reporters at a news conference broadcast by TVC News. The governor declared three days of mourning and has also postponed the planned start of campaigning for elections due in January. Also read | Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns Police launch probe into deaths The Niger state police command said it had opened an investigation after the deaths were discovered. Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun, as quoted by AFP, said the state police chief had “ordered the immediate commencement of investigation into the unfortunate death of suspected illegal miners while in the detention facility of the NSCDC”. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps said it had arrested “scores of suspected illegal miners” on Tuesday and Wednesday. According to the corps, the detainees were found dead in the early hours of September 17 after what it described as a “suspected outbreak of disease”. However, an intelligence report suggests that the deaths may have resulted from “overcrowding and inadequate ventilation” inside the detention facility. The exact cause of the deaths has not yet been established. Also read | At least 48 dead in Nigeria after drinking suspected methanol-laced alcohol Protest reported in Minna; Video of dead circulating online The deaths reportedly triggered protests in Minna involving “groups of miners and sympathisers”, according to the intelligence report cited by AFP. Cars and other belongings were damaged during the unrest. A video circulating online showed the bodies of dozens of young men lying outside, many wearing only shorts. Volunteers wearing gloves could be seen around the bodies while women in veils attempted to identify relatives. Video below — viewer discretion advised.

37 suspected illegal miners have died while in custody in Nigeria’s Niger State, triggering a police and government investigation. Officials say the cause has not yet been established, with competing explanations emerging over what happened inside the detention facility. All we know.

Nigeria: 37 suspected illegal miners die in custody; 'overcrowding and inadequate ventilation' under investigation

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree extending the nation's sweeping ban on Western agricultural and food imports through December 31, 2028, lengthening a decade-long embargo initially imposed in response to anti-Russian sanctions. Published on the official portal of legal acts, the decree prolongs "certain special economic measures" from January 1, 2027, through the end of 2028. The counter-sanctions framework was first established by presidential decree in August 2014, targeting nations that had enacted punitive financial and economic measures against Moscow following the annexation of Crimea.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-to-hold-first-parliamentary-since-the-start-of-war-putin-s-united-russia-expected-to-sweep-1789577440286/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-to-hold-first-parliamentary-since-the-start-of-war-putin-s-united-russia-expected-to-sweep-1789577440286/embed</a>&nbsp;The restrictions apply to broad categories of agricultural products, including dairy, meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables. It covers imports originating from the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Ukraine, Albania, Montenegro, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, entities formally designated by Moscow as "unfriendly states".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill</a>&nbsp;Since the embargo's inception, Russian policymakers have used the import bans as a core economic tool, aiming to insulate domestic supply chains and encourage import substitution. Kremlin officials have repeatedly cited the measures as a key driver of growth in Russia's domestic livestock, dairy, and farming sectors, which received significant state subsidies to scale up production and bridge initial market deficits. Additionally, Moscow has shifted its trade routes to expand agricultural imports from non-Western nations, including regional partners in South America, Serbia, and Asian trade hubs.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-breaks-silence-on-us-russia-sanctions-bill-100-tariff-threat-committed-to-energy-security-for-1-4-billion-1789619754941">India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion</a>&nbsp;The latest policy extension comes as global food production and distribution face mounting headwinds from geopolitical friction and severe weather disruptions. Both North American and Western European agricultural sectors have reported notable crop yield reductions due to record summer temperatures and persistent drought conditions, restricting international food trade flows.&nbsp;By locking in the embargo for an additional two years, the Kremlin signals that its trade posture toward Western economies will remain strictly restrictive for the foreseeable future. Industry analysts note that the move provides long-term regulatory certainty for domestic Russian producers and non-Western exporters, reinforcing the shift of Russia's food market away from traditional transatlantic trade networks.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree extending the 2014 agricultural food embargo against Western nations through December 31, 2028. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree extending the nation's sweeping ban on Western agricultural and food imports through December 31, 2028, lengthening a decade-long embargo initially imposed in response to anti-Russian sanctions. Published on the official portal of legal acts, the decree prolongs "certain special economic measures" from January 1, 2027, through the end of 2028. The counter-sanctions framework was first established by presidential decree in August 2014, targeting nations that had enacted punitive financial and economic measures against Moscow following the annexation of Crimea. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-to-hold-first-parliamentary-since-the-start-of-war-putin-s-united-russia-expected-to-sweep-1789577440286/embed The restrictions apply to broad categories of agricultural products, including dairy, meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables. It covers imports originating from the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Ukraine, Albania, Montenegro, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, entities formally designated by Moscow as "unfriendly states". Also read: Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill Since the embargo's inception, Russian policymakers have used the import bans as a core economic tool, aiming to insulate domestic supply chains and encourage import substitution. Kremlin officials have repeatedly cited the measures as a key driver of growth in Russia's domestic livestock, dairy, and farming sectors, which received significant state subsidies to scale up production and bridge initial market deficits. Additionally, Moscow has shifted its trade routes to expand agricultural imports from non-Western nations, including regional partners in South America, Serbia, and Asian trade hubs. Also read: India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion The latest policy extension comes as global food production and distribution face mounting headwinds from geopolitical friction and severe weather disruptions. Both North American and Western European agricultural sectors have reported notable crop yield reductions due to record summer temperatures and persistent drought conditions, restricting international food trade flows. By locking in the embargo for an additional two years, the Kremlin signals that its trade posture toward Western economies will remain strictly restrictive for the foreseeable future. Industry analysts note that the move provides long-term regulatory certainty for domestic Russian producers and non-Western exporters, reinforcing the shift of Russia's food market away from traditional transatlantic trade networks.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree extending the 2014 agricultural food embargo against Western nations through December 31, 2028.

Russia extends ban on Western food imports for two more years in extended sanctions countermeasure

Jongno 3-ga in Seoul, a historic district celebrated for its traditional architecture, independent businesses and late-night food stalls, has been named the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026 by Time Out. The Seoul neighbourhood claimed the top spot in Time Out’s annual ranking of 40 neighbourhoods selected through the magazine’s global network of local experts. The districts were assessed by a panel of editors based on ‘food and drink, nightlife, unique local businesses, liveability, and community’. Jongno 3-ga was followed by L’Ocean District in Rabat, Morocco, and Neos Kosmos in Athens, Greece. Chinatown in Los Angeles and Govanhill in Glasgow rounded out the top five. The Seoul neighbourhood previously featured prominently in Time Out’s rankings, placing third in 2021.<h2>Why Jongno 3-ga topped the 2026 list</h2>Located in central Seoul, Jongno 3-ga combines historic Korean architecture with a lively modern scene. Its narrow alleyways are lined with traditional hanok houses, alongside cafés, restaurants, craft shops and bars. One of its best-known areas, Ikseon-dong, has undergone a major transformation. Once a fading residential neighbourhood, it has become a popular destination after businesses began moving into its historic houses.&nbsp;Many of Ikseon-dong’s hanok were constructed during the 1920s as relatively small homes. A number of them have been preserved, creating a distinctive maze of traditional buildings and narrow lanes. The neighbourhood takes on a different character after sunset. Jongno 3-ga is particularly known for its pojangmacha, commonly called pocha, tented street stalls where visitors can enjoy inexpensive food and drinks. These stalls have been part of Seoul’s street culture for decades. In and around Ikseon-dong, they continue to attract younger visitors looking for dishes including savoury pancakes, grilled seafood and sannakji, or live octopus.<h2>L’Ocean district in Rabat takes second place</h2>Rabat’s L’Ocean District secured second place on the 2026 list. The Moroccan seaside neighbourhood overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and features a palm-lined promenade, beaches and sports pitches alongside low-rise residential streets. Its appeal lies partly in its strong local identity and combination of coastal surroundings with everyday neighbourhood life.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-base-in-poland-trump-claims-major-progress-all-we-know-about-permanent-military-presence-on-nato-s-eastern-flank-1789702629338">US Army base in Poland? Trump claims ‘major progress’. All we know about permanent military presence on NATO’s eastern flank</a><h2>Athens’ Neos Kosmos ranks third</h2>Neos Kosmos in Athens took third place. Situated between the Acropolis and the Athenian Riviera, the neighbourhood has developed a reputation for contemporary culture while retaining much of its traditional residential character. The Onassis Stegi cultural centre has contributed to the area’s cultural profile, hosting exhibitions, performances and public events. Restaurants, bars and independent businesses have also expanded throughout the neighbourhood.<h2>Chinatown in Los Angeles comes fourth</h2>Los Angeles’ Chinatown ranked fourth, bringing together a history dating to the late 19th century with a newer generation of restaurants, bars, galleries and creative businesses. Central Plaza remains one of the district’s key gathering points, while the nearby LA State Historic Park hosts concerts, film screenings and a farmers’ market.<h2>Govanhill in Glasgow completes the top five</h2>Govanhill, located in Glasgow’s southside, took fifth place. The densely populated neighbourhood is known for its established immigrant communities, independent businesses and community organisations. According to the 2022 census, ethnic minority residents account for 44.1 per cent of the area’s population. Its cultural landscape includes the Glasgow Zine Library and independent bookshops, alongside long-standing restaurants and shops serving the neighbourhood’s diverse communities.<h2>Tokyo loses the top spot</h2>Tokyo’s Jinbōchō district held the no. 1 position in Time Out’s 2025 ranking, but the Japanese capital did not retain the top spot this year. Japan nevertheless has two neighbourhoods in the 2026 top 10. Osaka’s Kitakagaya ranked sixth, while Tokyo’s Koenji came eighth. Kitakagaya, a former shipbuilding area, has seen disused factories and warehouses transformed into art spaces and studios. Koenji, historically associated with Tokyo’s punk scene, is now known for independent shops, record stores, bars and live music venues.<h2>Time Out’s top 10 coolest neighbourhoods for 2026</h2><ol><li>Jongno 3-ga — Seoul, South Korea</li><li>L’Ocean District — Rabat, Morocco</li><li>Neos Kosmos — Athens, Greece</li><li>Chinatown — Los Angeles, US</li><li>Govanhill — Glasgow, Scotland</li><li>Kitakagaya — Osaka, Japan</li><li>Chapinero Alto — Bogotá, Colombia</li><li>Koenji — Tokyo, Japan</li><li>Downtown — St Catharines, Ontario, Canada</li><li>Esquilino — Rome, Italy</li></ol>

Jongno 3-ga in Seoul has been named the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026 by Time Out. Discover the top 10 neighbourhoods worldwide

Jongno 3-ga in Seoul, a historic district celebrated for its traditional architecture, independent businesses and late-night food stalls, has been named the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026 by Time Out. The Seoul neighbourhood claimed the top spot in Time Out’s annual ranking of 40 neighbourhoods selected through the magazine’s global network of local experts. The districts were assessed by a panel of editors based on ‘food and drink, nightlife, unique local businesses, liveability, and community’. Jongno 3-ga was followed by L’Ocean District in Rabat, Morocco, and Neos Kosmos in Athens, Greece. Chinatown in Los Angeles and Govanhill in Glasgow rounded out the top five. The Seoul neighbourhood previously featured prominently in Time Out’s rankings, placing third in 2021. Why Jongno 3-ga topped the 2026 list Located in central Seoul, Jongno 3-ga combines historic Korean architecture with a lively modern scene. Its narrow alleyways are lined with traditional hanok houses, alongside cafés, restaurants, craft shops and bars. One of its best-known areas, Ikseon-dong, has undergone a major transformation. Once a fading residential neighbourhood, it has become a popular destination after businesses began moving into its historic houses. Many of Ikseon-dong’s hanok were constructed during the 1920s as relatively small homes. A number of them have been preserved, creating a distinctive maze of traditional buildings and narrow lanes. The neighbourhood takes on a different character after sunset. Jongno 3-ga is particularly known for its pojangmacha, commonly called pocha, tented street stalls where visitors can enjoy inexpensive food and drinks. These stalls have been part of Seoul’s street culture for decades. In and around Ikseon-dong, they continue to attract younger visitors looking for dishes including savoury pancakes, grilled seafood and sannakji, or live octopus. L’Ocean district in Rabat takes second place Rabat’s L’Ocean District secured second place on the 2026 list. The Moroccan seaside neighbourhood overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and features a palm-lined promenade, beaches and sports pitches alongside low-rise residential streets. Its appeal lies partly in its strong local identity and combination of coastal surroundings with everyday neighbourhood life. Also Read: US Army base in Poland? Trump claims ‘major progress’. All we know about permanent military presence on NATO’s eastern flank Athens’ Neos Kosmos ranks third Neos Kosmos in Athens took third place. Situated between the Acropolis and the Athenian Riviera, the neighbourhood has developed a reputation for contemporary culture while retaining much of its traditional residential character. The Onassis Stegi cultural centre has contributed to the area’s cultural profile, hosting exhibitions, performances and public events. Restaurants, bars and independent businesses have also expanded throughout the neighbourhood. Chinatown in Los Angeles comes fourth Los Angeles’ Chinatown ranked fourth, bringing together a history dating to the late 19th century with a newer generation of restaurants, bars, galleries and creative businesses. Central Plaza remains one of the district’s key gathering points, while the nearby LA State Historic Park hosts concerts, film screenings and a farmers’ market. Govanhill in Glasgow completes the top five Govanhill, located in Glasgow’s southside, took fifth place. The densely populated neighbourhood is known for its established immigrant communities, independent businesses and community organisations. According to the 2022 census, ethnic minority residents account for 44.1 per cent of the area’s population. Its cultural landscape includes the Glasgow Zine Library and independent bookshops, alongside long-standing restaurants and shops serving the neighbourhood’s diverse communities. Tokyo loses the top spot Tokyo’s Jinbōchō district held the no. 1 position in Time Out’s 2025 ranking, but the Japanese capital did not retain the top spot this year. Japan nevertheless has two neighbourhoods in the 2026 top 10. Osaka’s Kitakagaya ranked sixth, while Tokyo’s Koenji came eighth. Kitakagaya, a former shipbuilding area, has seen disused factories and warehouses transformed into art spaces and studios. Koenji, historically associated with Tokyo’s punk scene, is now known for independent shops, record stores, bars and live music venues. Time Out’s top 10 coolest neighbourhoods for 2026 Jongno 3-ga — Seoul, South Korea L’Ocean District — Rabat, Morocco Neos Kosmos — Athens, Greece Chinatown — Los Angeles, US Govanhill — Glasgow, Scotland Kitakagaya — Osaka, Japan Chapinero Alto — Bogotá, Colombia Koenji — Tokyo, Japan Downtown — St Catharines, Ontario, Canada Esquilino — Rome, Italy

Jongno 3-ga in Seoul has been named the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026, praised for food, nightlife and local culture

THIS city in Asia has the world’s coolest neighbourhood for 2026. Check the full list

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Sep 17) said “major progress” had been made towards establishing a US Army base in Poland. This comes as Warsaw and Washington continue talks on expanding the American military presence in the NATO ally.“Thanks to the bold leadership of my friend, Karol Nawrocki, President of Poland, major progress is being made toward establishing a U.S. Army base in Poland,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.“If this happens, the location will be announced very soon. This will be a historic step for our Great U.S./Polish Alliance,” he added.

Polish President Karol Nawrocki welcomed the development, saying Warsaw was ready to continue efforts to strengthen defence cooperation with the United States. “We are ready to continue our efforts to strengthen our defense cooperation: seriously, responsibly, and always together,” Nawrocki said on X. He added that the Polish government would do its utmost to provide a suitable location for the US Army base.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-plotting-something-bad-russia-may-launch-accidental-strikes-on-nato-countries-supporting-ukraine-britain-poland-pm-warns-1789697149962">Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns</a>Notably, the prospect of a permanent US base would further deepen military ties between Warsaw and Washington.Trump did not provide a date for announcing the location or details of the proposed base. Reuters reported that discussions remain underway.<h2>Poland seeks permanent US military presence</h2>Poland has for years sought a larger and more permanent American military presence as it reinforces NATO's eastern flank following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.US and Polish officials have already been holding discussions on the issue. In September, Polish Defence Ministry officials met a US delegation led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of War William Cappelletti to discuss the conditions for an enhanced American military presence. The two sides agreed on a timetable for further consultations and working groups.In June, Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said the Pentagon had responded positively to Warsaw's proposal for a permanent US military presence. At the time, however, no final decision had been announced.Poland currently hosts thousands of US troops, but much of the American deployment has been rotational rather than based permanently in the country.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-judge-warns-trump-attorney-general-todd-blanche-of-contempt-over-doj-delays-1789701127398">Epstein files: Judge warns Trump Attorney General Todd Blanche of contempt over DOJ delays</a><h2>Move comes amid US review of troops in Europe</h2>Trump's announcement comes as Washington reviews the deployment of US forces in Europe, a process that has raised questions among European allies about the future size and distribution of American forces.For Warsaw, expanding the US presence has become a central part of its defence planning. Poland borders both Ukraine and Russia and has been pushing for stronger allied capabilities along NATO's eastern flank.Defence spending targetThe proposed US base also comes against the backdrop of a broader NATO push for higher defence spending.At the 2025 NATO summit in The Hague, allied leaders agreed to invest 5 per cent of GDP annually in defence and security by 2035. At least 3.5 per cent is to go towards core military requirements, while up to 1.5 per cent can cover broader defence and security-related spending, including infrastructure and resilience.

Donald Trump says the US and Poland have made “major progress” towards establishing an American Army base, with the location potentially to be announced soon. But what exactly has been agreed, and why does Warsaw want a permanent US presence?

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Sep 17) said “major progress” had been made towards establishing a US Army base in Poland. This comes as Warsaw and Washington continue talks on expanding the American military presence in the NATO ally. “Thanks to the bold leadership of my friend, Karol Nawrocki, President of Poland, major progress is being made toward establishing a U.S. Army base in Poland,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “If this happens, the location will be announced very soon. This will be a historic step for our Great U.S./Polish Alliance,” he added.

Donald Trump says the US and Poland have made “major progress” towards establishing an American Army base, with the location potentially to be announced soon. But what exactly has been agreed, and why does Warsaw want a permanent US presence?

US Army base in Poland? Trump claims ‘major progress’. All we know about permanent military presence on NATO’s eastern flank

Nightmare for fries fans: Europe is bracing for a severe potato shortage following the continent’s hottest summer on record, which wiped out more than 3.5 million tonnes of production across key growing nations. An analysis released by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) on Thursday (Sep 17) claimed extreme heatwaves and severe drought conditions across Great Britain, Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands have reduced potato yields by as much as 20 per cent. Industry estimates place total crop losses between €498 million and €818 million, which is nearly $572 million to $940 million.&nbsp;As one of Europe’s most water-intensive staple crops, potatoes suffered heavily under persistent temperatures exceeding 30°C and extended dry spells throughout July and August. In parts of northern France, no measurable rain fell for over ten weeks, causing tubers to stall in development and significantly affecting both the size and quality of the harvest.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-are-baffled-to-learn-the-identity-of-potato-s-mother-it-started-9-million-years-ago-1754028872290">Potato has a mother, and you won't believe who it is. Hint: It's a fruit</a><h2>The weather factor</h2>&nbsp;The severe weather shortfall has been exacerbated by a reduction in total planted area this season. Following an oversupply last year that caused free-market prices to tumble, many European farmers deliberately scaled back potato acreage to avoid surplus losses. According to the ECIU, this deliberate reduction cut an additional 3.6 million tonnes of potential yield from the market.&nbsp;<h2>At the marketplace</h2>&nbsp;Consequently, wholesale potato prices have spiked across the continent. Free-market prices in Belgium surged from near-zero levels earlier this year to over €200 per tonne, while German prices escalated from €15 per tonne in June to €240 per tonne. Agricultural groups warn that the crisis highlights the broader threat of climate volatility on food security. Europe has experienced four major droughts since 2018, leaving growers increasingly vulnerable to volatile weather cycles. European Commission data indicates that overall summer crop yields across the EU are expected to sit up to 14 per cent below their five-year averages.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-delhi-hc-rejects-pepsicos-appeal-for-patent-on-potato-seeds-what-was-the-case-about-614018">Explained | Delhi HC rejects PepsiCo’s appeal for patent on potato seeds: What was the case about?</a>&nbsp;The supply contraction comes at a challenging moment for European growers, who are also grappling with rising operational expenses, increased diesel prices, and trade tariffs. Industry analysts warn that food processors and consumers will soon feel the impact through higher grocery prices and smaller retail portions for processed goods like frozen fries.

Record-breaking summer heatwaves and severe drought have wiped out over 3 million tonnes of European potato crops, leading to impending supply shortages, undersized produce, and soaring prices for consumers.

Nightmare for fries fans: Europe is bracing for a severe potato shortage following the continent’s hottest summer on record, which wiped out more than 3.5 million tonnes of production across key growing nations. An analysis released by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) on Thursday (Sep 17) claimed extreme heatwaves and severe drought conditions across Great Britain, Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands have reduced potato yields by as much as 20 per cent. Industry estimates place total crop losses between €498 million and €818 million, which is nearly $572 million to $940 million. As one of Europe’s most water-intensive staple crops, potatoes suffered heavily under persistent temperatures exceeding 30°C and extended dry spells throughout July and August. In parts of northern France, no measurable rain fell for over ten weeks, causing tubers to stall in development and significantly affecting both the size and quality of the harvest. Also read: Potato has a mother, and you won't believe who it is. Hint: It's a fruit The weather factor The severe weather shortfall has been exacerbated by a reduction in total planted area this season. Following an oversupply last year that caused free-market prices to tumble, many European farmers deliberately scaled back potato acreage to avoid surplus losses. According to the ECIU, this deliberate reduction cut an additional 3.6 million tonnes of potential yield from the market. At the marketplace Consequently, wholesale potato prices have spiked across the continent. Free-market prices in Belgium surged from near-zero levels earlier this year to over €200 per tonne, while German prices escalated from €15 per tonne in June to €240 per tonne. Agricultural groups warn that the crisis highlights the broader threat of climate volatility on food security. Europe has experienced four major droughts since 2018, leaving growers increasingly vulnerable to volatile weather cycles. European Commission data indicates that overall summer crop yields across the EU are expected to sit up to 14 per cent below their five-year averages. Also read: Explained | Delhi HC rejects PepsiCo’s appeal for patent on potato seeds: What was the case about? The supply contraction comes at a challenging moment for European growers, who are also grappling with rising operational expenses, increased diesel prices, and trade tariffs. Industry analysts warn that food processors and consumers will soon feel the impact through higher grocery prices and smaller retail portions for processed goods like frozen fries.

Record-breaking summer heatwaves and severe drought have wiped out over 3 million tonnes of European potato crops, leading to impending supply shortages, undersized produce, and soaring prices for consumers.

Europe faces potato shortage as record summer heatwaves wipe out 3.5 million tonnes

A federal judge has warned US Attorney General Todd Blanche that he could face civil contempt proceedings if the Justice Department fails to comply with court orders concerning the release and review of Jeffrey Epstein-related files.US District Judge Emmet Sullivan, in a 20-page order on Wednesday (Sep 16) said that a contempt finding would be “premature” at this stage, but warned that it could become appropriate if Blanche does not comply with the court’s renewed directives. The case could result in the Justice Department being required to release additional Epstein records or justify and remove redactions that the court finds unlawful.“Courts have the inherent power to enforce compliance with their lawful orders through civil contempt,” Sullivan wrote.The warning comes in a lawsuit filed by independent journalist Katie Phang, who alleges that the DOJ has not fully complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Congress passed last year.Judge rejects parts of DOJ's justificationSullivan said the Justice Department had provided sufficient documentation to establish that some redactions were made to protect survivors' privacy. However, he found the department's explanation inadequate for other redactions and ordered additional material to be submitted for private “in camera” review, allowing the judge to examine sensitive records outside public view.The judge also rejected the DOJ's argument for withholding handwritten FBI interview notes on the grounds that they were “substantially similar to” typewritten reports already released.Sullivan said the department's review protocol does not establish that documents can be withheld simply because they are substantially similar to other records. The issue had previously been raised during proceedings in the case, with the judge seeking access to the underlying notes so the court could independently assess the DOJ's claims.Sullivan also rejected the department's explanation for not reviewing Epstein-related material written in foreign languages, which DOJ had argued was impractical for a first-level reviewer to assess.At the same time, the judge acknowledged that some redactions covering the names and email addresses of government attorneys and law enforcement personnel were required under the department's own review rules.DOJ pushes backThe Justice Department has maintained that its redactions comply with the law and has argued that protecting victims' identities is a key consideration.A DOJ spokesperson told Axios: “Our filings will speak for themselves.” The department also said it had provided the judge with evidence concerning redacted victim names and argued that the lawsuit sought to unmask victims' identities.The dispute is part of a broader legal and political fight over the release of Epstein records. Sullivan had already ordered the DOJ in June to produce additional records or explain why they could not be released.The House is separately nearing a vote on legislation that would expand the release of remaining Epstein files. A discharge petition led by outgoing Republican Rep. Thomas Massie is close to obtaining the signatures needed to force action.

A federal judge has warned US Attorney General Todd Blanche that civil contempt could become an option if the Justice Department fails to follow court orders in the Epstein files case. All you need to know.

A federal judge has warned US Attorney General Todd Blanche that he could face civil contempt proceedings if the Justice Department fails to comply with court orders concerning the release and review of Jeffrey Epstein-related files. US District Judge Emmet Sullivan, in a 20-page order on Wednesday (Sep 16) said that a contempt finding would be “premature” at this stage, but warned that it could become appropriate if Blanche does not comply with the court’s renewed directives. The case could result in the Justice Department being required to release additional Epstein records or justify and remove redactions that the court finds unlawful. “Courts have the inherent power to enforce compliance with their lawful orders through civil contempt,” Sullivan wrote. The warning comes in a lawsuit filed by independent journalist Katie Phang, who alleges that the DOJ has not fully complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Congress passed last year. Judge rejects parts of DOJ's justification Sullivan said the Justice Department had provided sufficient documentation to establish that some redactions were made to protect survivors' privacy. However, he found the department's explanation inadequate for other redactions and ordered additional material to be submitted for private “in camera” review, allowing the judge to examine sensitive records outside public view. The judge also rejected the DOJ's argument for withholding handwritten FBI interview notes on the grounds that they were “substantially similar to” typewritten reports already released. Sullivan said the department's review protocol does not establish that documents can be withheld simply because they are substantially similar to other records. The issue had previously been raised during proceedings in the case, with the judge seeking access to the underlying notes so the court could independently assess the DOJ's claims. Sullivan also rejected the department's explanation for not reviewing Epstein-related material written in foreign languages, which DOJ had argued was impractical for a first-level reviewer to assess. At the same time, the judge acknowledged that some redactions covering the names and email addresses of government attorneys and law enforcement personnel were required under the department's own review rules. DOJ pushes back The Justice Department has maintained that its redactions comply with the law and has argued that protecting victims' identities is a key consideration. A DOJ spokesperson told Axios: “Our filings will speak for themselves.” The department also said it had provided the judge with evidence concerning redacted victim names and argued that the lawsuit sought to unmask victims' identities. The dispute is part of a broader legal and political fight over the release of Epstein records. Sullivan had already ordered the DOJ in June to produce additional records or explain why they could not be released. The House is separately nearing a vote on legislation that would expand the release of remaining Epstein files. A discharge petition led by outgoing Republican Rep. Thomas Massie is close to obtaining the signatures needed to force action.

A federal judge has warned US Attorney General Todd Blanche that civil contempt could become an option if the Justice Department fails to follow court orders in the Epstein files case. All you need to know.

Epstein files: Judge warns Trump Attorney General Todd Blanche of contempt over DOJ delays

In yet another incident of attack on immigrants, a Sikh truck driver in Wyoming was stabbed 17 times at a rest area in Wyoming, United States. The 28-year-old from Sacramento was hospitalised after the incident with injuries to his neck, chest, arms and ribs.&nbsp;According to reports, the Punjabi Sikh driver, who only identified himself as Singh, due to fear for his safety said he was attacked after a man followed him into a bathroom at the Bitter Creek Rest Area along Interstate 80 early Sunday morning.&nbsp;Speaking to NPR he further said that after he entered the bathroom, the man began to beat him before pulling out a knife and stabbing him multiple times. The attacker then fled the scene, while Singh stepped outside before collapsing onto the pavement.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-48-dead-100-hospitalised-in-nigeria-after-drinking-suspected-methanol-laced-alcohol-1789698948857">At least 48 dead, 100 hospitalised in Nigeria after drinking suspected methanol-laced alcohol</a>&nbsp;Singh further said that a Hispanic family present there came to his rescue as they attended to his wounds and sought medical help.&nbsp;He added that he had visited the rest stop many times in the past without any problems." I don't know why this happened, I don't know why they attacked me," said Singh to the media house from the hospital.&nbsp;As of Wednesday night, Singh remained in hospital recuperating from his injuries caused by stab wounds to his chest and rib.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the American Sikh Council (ASC) has called for a full and transparent investigation into the incident and sough official accountability.&nbsp;The accused Andrew Kris Bzdak has been arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder. The motive of the atatck is not yet known.

Singh said that a Hispanic family present at the scene came to his rescue as they attended to his wounds and sought medical help.

In yet another incident of attack on immigrants, a Sikh truck driver in Wyoming was stabbed 17 times at a rest area in Wyoming, United States. The 28-year-old from Sacramento was hospitalised after the incident with injuries to his neck, chest, arms and ribs. According to reports, the Punjabi Sikh driver, who only identified himself as Singh, due to fear for his safety said he was attacked after a man followed him into a bathroom at the Bitter Creek Rest Area along Interstate 80 early Sunday morning. Speaking to NPR he further said that after he entered the bathroom, the man began to beat him before pulling out a knife and stabbing him multiple times. The attacker then fled the scene, while Singh stepped outside before collapsing onto the pavement. ALSO READ: At least 48 dead, 100 hospitalised in Nigeria after drinking suspected methanol-laced alcohol Singh further said that a Hispanic family present there came to his rescue as they attended to his wounds and sought medical help. He added that he had visited the rest stop many times in the past without any problems. " I don't know why this happened, I don't know why they attacked me," said Singh to the media house from the hospital. As of Wednesday night, Singh remained in hospital recuperating from his injuries caused by stab wounds to his chest and rib. Meanwhile, the American Sikh Council (ASC) has called for a full and transparent investigation into the incident and sough official accountability. The accused Andrew Kris Bzdak has been arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder. The motive of the atatck is not yet known.

Singh said that a Hispanic family present at the scene came to his rescue as they attended to his wounds and sought medical help.

Sikh driver attacked in Wyoming in US, suffers 17 stab wounds

At least 48 people have died and around 100 others are undergoing treatment in southern Nigeria after consuming a locally brewed alcoholic concoction suspected of containing methanol, officials said Thursday.Ondo State Commissioner for Health Banji Ajaka said cases had been reported in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas. According to the commissioner, 182 people are believed to have been affected, with some currently receiving hospital treatment.The suspected poisoning has reportedly caused severe health complications, including vision loss and organ damage.“I took like two shots and I went out on Friday. On Saturday, I noticed that I could not see,” 32-year-old Sola Adebayo told local television channel TVC News while receiving treatment in hospital.Locally produced alcoholic drinks are widely consumed in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, particularly in rural communities where such beverages can be cheaper and are often subject to limited regulation.“This thing happened rapidly. Once they consume, depending on the quantity, the kidneys will pack up, the eyes will go, the brain will be damaged,” Ajaka told The Associated Press.Ondo State police spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh said 15 people had been arrested in connection with the incident. He said one of those arrested was allegedly “involved in the production of substances suspected to contain methanol and is currently assisting the police with investigations.”Residents told the AP that they suspected a popular high-alcohol herbal drink known as “Monkey Tail” may have been mixed with methanol, resulting in the deaths.A trader selling the concoction in Odigbo, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because of fears of arrest, said there are two versions of Monkey Tail: an original version considered safe and another version that is unsafe.Local media reports said the first death linked to the suspected poisoning was recorded nearly two weeks ago.Meanwhile, Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is enforcing a nationwide ban on alcohol sold in sachets and small plastic containers. The agency has said such packaging makes alcoholic drinks easily accessible to children and young people.Authorities are continuing investigations into the suspected methanol contamination and the source of the affected alcoholic concoction.

At least 48 people have died in southern Nigeria after consuming locally brewed alcohol suspected of containing methanol, officials say

At least 48 people have died and around 100 others are undergoing treatment in southern Nigeria after consuming a locally brewed alcoholic concoction suspected of containing methanol, officials said Thursday. Ondo State Commissioner for Health Banji Ajaka said cases had been reported in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas. According to the commissioner, 182 people are believed to have been affected, with some currently receiving hospital treatment. The suspected poisoning has reportedly caused severe health complications, including vision loss and organ damage. “I took like two shots and I went out on Friday. On Saturday, I noticed that I could not see,” 32-year-old Sola Adebayo told local television channel TVC News while receiving treatment in hospital. Locally produced alcoholic drinks are widely consumed in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, particularly in rural communities where such beverages can be cheaper and are often subject to limited regulation. “This thing happened rapidly. Once they consume, depending on the quantity, the kidneys will pack up, the eyes will go, the brain will be damaged,” Ajaka told The Associated Press. Ondo State police spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh said 15 people had been arrested in connection with the incident. He said one of those arrested was allegedly “involved in the production of substances suspected to contain methanol and is currently assisting the police with investigations.” Residents told the AP that they suspected a popular high-alcohol herbal drink known as “Monkey Tail” may have been mixed with methanol, resulting in the deaths. A trader selling the concoction in Odigbo, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because of fears of arrest, said there are two versions of Monkey Tail: an original version considered safe and another version that is unsafe. Local media reports said the first death linked to the suspected poisoning was recorded nearly two weeks ago. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is enforcing a nationwide ban on alcohol sold in sachets and small plastic containers. The agency has said such packaging makes alcoholic drinks easily accessible to children and young people. Authorities are continuing investigations into the suspected methanol contamination and the source of the affected alcoholic concoction.

At least 48 people have died and about 100 are hospitalised in Nigeria after drinking alcohol suspected of containing deadly methanol

At least 48 dead, 100 hospitalised in Nigeria after drinking suspected methanol-laced alcohol

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that Russia could carry out drone or missile strikes against countries supporting Ukraine, with Moscow potentially portraying the attacks as "accidents" to test NATO’s willingness to respond.Speaking in the Polish parliament on Thursday (Sep 17), Tusk said intelligence assessments pointing to such a scenario were “very consistent and convincing”. Tusk alleged that Britain, a key ally of Ukraine, could be one of Russian President Vladimir Putin's intended targets.He urged Poland to prepare for a range of possibilities as Russia continues its war in Ukraine. “There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident,” Tusk said.Tusk argued that such incidents could be designed by an increasingly desperate Putin as a way to weaken support for Ukraine and create divisions within NATO over whether an attack had taken place deliberately.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-breaks-silence-on-us-russia-sanctions-bill-100-tariff-threat-committed-to-energy-security-for-1-4-billion-1789619754941">India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion</a><h2>Tusk warns of a test for NATO</h2>According to Tusk, Russia could use repeated incidents to undermine confidence in NATO’s collective defence commitments and make member states reluctant to invoke the alliance’s provisions.He warned that the coming autumn and winter could be a particularly critical phase of the war, with Russia expected to intensify attacks on Ukraine while testing the resolve of its Western supporters."We know he is plotting something bad. However, for us the most important task is to prepare for various scenarios," said Tusk, adding, "We will certainly not naively accept such messages that Russia has goodwill and will start behaving properly. There is no indication of this."The warning came after a fresh Russian aerial assault on western Ukraine near Poland’s border. Poland scrambled fighter jets and temporarily closed airports in response to the attack, although Warsaw said there was no confirmed breach of its airspace.The use of faster, jet-powered drones has added to concerns among Ukraine’s allies because they leave air-defence systems less time to detect and engage incoming weapons. These have also led to calls for Britain and other allies to shoot down the jets before they could reach NATO airspace.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russia-sanctions-bill-trump-100-percent-tariff-india-china-1789610901670">Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill</a>"There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident," warned the Polish PM.<h2>Poland steps up air patrols</h2>Poland has already increased military activity along its eastern frontier. Its air force has been conducting more F-16 patrols and helicopter operations, while Warsaw has pre-authorised its forces to shoot down any Russian aircraft that enter Polish airspace.Tusk’s comments follow a series of incidents involving Russian drones and other military activity close to NATO territory. Earlier this month, Poland reported concerns over possible Russian activity near border infrastructure, while similar incidents have been reported around other Ukrainian border areas.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has alleged that intelligence assessments point to a possible Russian strategy involving drones or missiles hitting countries that support Ukraine. These attacks, he said, would be portrayed by Moscow as an “accident” to test NATO’s response.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that Russia could carry out drone or missile strikes against countries supporting Ukraine, with Moscow potentially portraying the attacks as "accidents" to test NATO’s willingness to respond. Speaking in the Polish parliament on Thursday (Sep 17), Tusk said intelligence assessments pointing to such a scenario were “very consistent and convincing”. Tusk alleged that Britain, a key ally of Ukraine, could be one of Russian President Vladimir Putin's intended targets. He urged Poland to prepare for a range of possibilities as Russia continues its war in Ukraine. “There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident,” Tusk said. Tusk argued that such incidents could be designed by an increasingly desperate Putin as a way to weaken support for Ukraine and create divisions within NATO over whether an attack had taken place deliberately. Also read | India breaks silence on US Russia sanctions bill, 100% tariff threat: ‘Committed to energy security’ for 1.4 billion Tusk warns of a test for NATO According to Tusk, Russia could use repeated incidents to undermine confidence in NATO’s collective defence commitments and make member states reluctant to invoke the alliance’s provisions. He warned that the coming autumn and winter could be a particularly critical phase of the war, with Russia expected to intensify attacks on Ukraine while testing the resolve of its Western supporters. "We know he is plotting something bad. However, for us the most important task is to prepare for various scenarios," said Tusk, adding, "We will certainly not naively accept such messages that Russia has goodwill and will start behaving properly. There is no indication of this." The warning came after a fresh Russian aerial assault on western Ukraine near Poland’s border. Poland scrambled fighter jets and temporarily closed airports in response to the attack, although Warsaw said there was no confirmed breach of its airspace. The use of faster, jet-powered drones has added to concerns among Ukraine’s allies because they leave air-defence systems less time to detect and engage incoming weapons. These have also led to calls for Britain and other allies to shoot down the jets before they could reach NATO airspace. Also read | Trump gets new power to hit India, China with up to 100% tariffs as US Senate clears Russia sanctions bill "There is a real risk that drones or other types of missiles could penetrate the territory of one or more countries on the eastern flank and even cause damage, while the official explanation will be that there was an accident," warned the Polish PM. Poland steps up air patrols Poland has already increased military activity along its eastern frontier. Its air force has been conducting more F-16 patrols and helicopter operations, while Warsaw has pre-authorised its forces to shoot down any Russian aircraft that enter Polish airspace. Tusk’s comments follow a series of incidents involving Russian drones and other military activity close to NATO territory. Earlier this month, Poland reported concerns over possible Russian activity near border infrastructure, while similar incidents have been reported around other Ukrainian border areas.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has alleged that intelligence assessments point to a possible Russian strategy involving drones or missiles hitting countries that support Ukraine. These attacks, he said, would be portrayed by Moscow as an “accident” to test NATO’s response.

Putin 'is plotting something bad': Russia may launch 'accidental' strikes on NATO countries supporting Ukraine, Poland PM warns

The United States will allow a core Iranian delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City next week, despite the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran. A source familiar with the matter said the Iranian delegation will include President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and essential staff members for the UNGA high-level week.&nbsp;“Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level Week,” the State Department spokesman said. The State Department official said the delegation will be significantly scaled down and subject to tighter travel restrictions and luxury import prohibitions ‘per our policy’. The 81st UNGA is set to take place amid continued military tensions between the United States and Iran, with uncertainty surrounding efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart negotiations between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;The disruption of the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20 per cent of global seaborne energy transit passes, has contributed to a sharp increase in global oil prices. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that the conflict with Iran is approaching an end. He has also said that his administration has held direct discussions with Iranian officials, although fighting continues in the wider region. Meanwhile, tensions have also intensified around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, where Houthi forces have seized control and fighting has continued in Yemen involving the Saudi-led coalition.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-have-a-big-decision-coming-up-trump-says-he-s-approaching-major-crossroad-in-iran-war-1789672655068">‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war</a>&nbsp;The decision to allow Iranian officials to enter the United States for the UNGA comes as Washington has again barred Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and dozens of Palestinian Authority (PA) officials from attending the gathering in person. The Trump administration denied visas to Abbas and other PA officials for the second consecutive year. Last year, the visa restrictions meant that the Palestinian president addressed the UN General Assembly virtually instead of attending in person.&nbsp;The Palestinians will nevertheless be represented at the upcoming high-level UNGA session by diplomats who are already accredited to the United Nations. Without specifically naming Abbas, the State Department announced a wider visa ban affecting officials from the PA and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Washington cited ‘their failure to reform, contrary to their commitments to the United States, and their ongoing activities that undermine the prospects for peace’, the statement said.&nbsp;In response, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said, “Punitive measures and restrictions imposed on Palestinian officials do not contribute to advancing peace or combating violence', the authority’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said in a statement in response. “Rather, they weaken the Palestinian partner committed to a political solution and encourage forces working to undermine the two-state solution and impose the reality of occupation, settlement and annexation by force.”

US allows Iran’s President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi to attend UNGA as Palestinian officials face visa restrictions amid global crises

The United States will allow a core Iranian delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City next week, despite the ongoing conflict between Washington and Tehran. A source familiar with the matter said the Iranian delegation will include President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and essential staff members for the UNGA high-level week. “Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level Week,” the State Department spokesman said. The State Department official said the delegation will be significantly scaled down and subject to tighter travel restrictions and luxury import prohibitions ‘per our policy’. The 81st UNGA is set to take place amid continued military tensions between the United States and Iran, with uncertainty surrounding efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The disruption of the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20 per cent of global seaborne energy transit passes, has contributed to a sharp increase in global oil prices. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that the conflict with Iran is approaching an end. He has also said that his administration has held direct discussions with Iranian officials, although fighting continues in the wider region. Meanwhile, tensions have also intensified around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, where Houthi forces have seized control and fighting has continued in Yemen involving the Saudi-led coalition. Also Read: ‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war The decision to allow Iranian officials to enter the United States for the UNGA comes as Washington has again barred Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and dozens of Palestinian Authority (PA) officials from attending the gathering in person. The Trump administration denied visas to Abbas and other PA officials for the second consecutive year. Last year, the visa restrictions meant that the Palestinian president addressed the UN General Assembly virtually instead of attending in person. The Palestinians will nevertheless be represented at the upcoming high-level UNGA session by diplomats who are already accredited to the United Nations. Without specifically naming Abbas, the State Department announced a wider visa ban affecting officials from the PA and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Washington cited ‘their failure to reform, contrary to their commitments to the United States, and their ongoing activities that undermine the prospects for peace’, the statement said. In response, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said, “Punitive measures and restrictions imposed on Palestinian officials do not contribute to advancing peace or combating violence', the authority’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said in a statement in response. “Rather, they weaken the Palestinian partner committed to a political solution and encourage forces working to undermine the two-state solution and impose the reality of occupation, settlement and annexation by force.”

US allows a scaled-down Iranian delegation to attend UNGA 2026, while Palestinian officials face visa restrictions amid conflicts and global tensions

Pezeshkian, Araghchi set to attend UNGA 2026 in New York amid ongoing conflict as US-imposed travel curbs remain

After facing multiple attacks and sustaining damage during the Iran war and in Houthi attacks, Saudi Arabia will be upgrading its air force with the purchase of 48 F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter aircraft from the United States. According to the US State Department, the jets will cost the Saudis about $24.3 billion. The fighter jets built by Lockheed Martin are in common use by many US allies, including the UK, Italy, Netherlands, Australia, Canada and others.&nbsp;The F-35A variety jets will have a conventional takeoff as opposed to the F-35B, which can take off vertically.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia’s capability to deter current and future threats by strengthening its homeland defence and improving interoperability with US forces, and other regional and NATO forces,” the State Department said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-have-a-big-decision-coming-up-trump-says-he-s-approaching-major-crossroad-in-iran-war-1789672655068">‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war</a>&nbsp;The F-35 Lightning II is one of the most common stealth fighters in the US arsenal, with hundreds being used across the Air Force, Marines and Navy. A record number of 191 F-35 fighters were delivered to the US in 2025, said Lockheed Martin.&nbsp;<h2>Sale supports foreign policy and national security objectives of US</h2>&nbsp;This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the US by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region.The deal will augment Saudi Arabia’s operational aircraft and enhance its air-to-air, and air-to-ground self-defence capability.The state department said that the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the military balance in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Saudi Arabia made a direct appeal for the jets in early 2025 to US President Donald Trump and has long been interested in Lockheed Martin's fighter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tata-trusts-chairman-noel-tata-calls-chandrasekaran-s-reappointment-illegal-rejects-tata-sons-listing-1789664770040">Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing</a>&nbsp;The estimated $24.3 billion sale would include 48 of the military aircraft and 49 ⁠Pratt &amp; Whitney engines along with communications equipment, spare parts and other support items.&nbsp;Washington weighs weapons sales to the Middle East in a way that ensures Israel maintains a “qualitative military edge”, thereby ensuring that Israel gets more advanced US weapons than regional Arab states.The F-35 is built with stealth technology that allows it to evade enemy detection and is considered the world’s most advanced fighter jet.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Saudis aims to modernise its air force, counter regional threats</h2>&nbsp;Saudi Arabia is the largest customer for US arms and has been seeking the fighter jet for years as it looks to modernise its air force and counter regional threats, particularly from Iran.&nbsp;The Saudi Air Force flies a mix of fighter aircraft, including Boeing F-15s, European Tornados and Typhoons.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-firm-linked-to-trump-s-sons-signs-mou-with-pakistan-army-gets-initial-order-1789648161978">US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order</a>&nbsp;Trump has made arms sales to Saudi Arabia a priority since returning to office. In 2025, the United States agreed to sell the kingdom an arms package worth nearly $142 billion, which the White House called “the largest defence cooperation ⁠agreement” Washington has ever done.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia is pursuing ambitious economic and military modernisation plans under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>US approves visas for Iranian representatives for UN General Assembly next week</h2>&nbsp;The Trump administration has approved visas for top Iranian officials, including the president and foreign minister, to attend the UN General Assembly high-level meeting in New York next week even as the two countries are locked in a stalemated war.The State Department said Thursday it had approved visas for Iran’s “core delegation” to participate in the UN meetings. The core delegation includes President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-urges-iran-to-rein-in-houthis-after-saudi-arabia-s-appeal-for-help-report-1789657903169">China urges Iran to rein in Houthis after Saudi Arabia’s appeal for help: Report</a>&nbsp;“Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level week. The delegation will be under travel restrictions and will face prohibitions on the purchase of luxury and other goods per our policy,” the statement said.&nbsp;<h2>Trump hails ‘major progress’ toward US Army base in Poland</h2>In a post on Truth Social, the president said there is “major progress” toward opening a US Army base in Poland.“GREAT NEWS! Thanks to the bold leadership of my friend, Karol Nawrocki, President of Poland, major progress is being made toward establishing a US Army base in Poland. If this happens, the location will be announced very soon. This will be a historic step for our Great US/Polish Alliance,” he wrote.

The deal will augment Saudi Arabia’s operational aircraft and enhance its air-to-air, and air-to-ground self-defence capability. This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the US by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally.

After facing multiple attacks and sustaining damage during the Iran war and in Houthi attacks, Saudi Arabia will be upgrading its air force with the purchase of 48 F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter aircraft from the United States. According to the US State Department, the jets will cost the Saudis about $24.3 billion. The fighter jets built by Lockheed Martin are in common use by many US allies, including the UK, Italy, Netherlands, Australia, Canada and others. The F-35A variety jets will have a conventional takeoff as opposed to the F-35B, which can take off vertically. “The proposed sale will improve Saudi Arabia’s capability to deter current and future threats by strengthening its homeland defence and improving interoperability with US forces, and other regional and NATO forces,” the State Department said. Also Read: ‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war The F-35 Lightning II is one of the most common stealth fighters in the US arsenal, with hundreds being used across the Air Force, Marines and Navy. A record number of 191 F-35 fighters were delivered to the US in 2025, said Lockheed Martin. Sale supports foreign policy and national security objectives of US This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the US by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Gulf region. The deal will augment Saudi Arabia’s operational aircraft and enhance its air-to-air, and air-to-ground self-defence capability. The state department said that the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the military balance in the region. Saudi Arabia made a direct appeal for the jets in early 2025 to US President Donald Trump and has long been interested in Lockheed Martin's fighter. Also Read: Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing The estimated $24.3 billion sale would include 48 of the military aircraft and 49 ⁠Pratt & Whitney engines along with communications equipment, spare parts and other support items. Washington weighs weapons sales to the Middle East in a way that ensures Israel maintains a “qualitative military edge”, thereby ensuring that Israel gets more advanced US weapons than regional Arab states. The F-35 is built with stealth technology that allows it to evade enemy detection and is considered the world’s most advanced fighter jet. Saudis aims to modernise its air force, counter regional threats Saudi Arabia is the largest customer for US arms and has been seeking the fighter jet for years as it looks to modernise its air force and counter regional threats, particularly from Iran. The Saudi Air Force flies a mix of fighter aircraft, including Boeing F-15s, European Tornados and Typhoons. Also Read: US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order Trump has made arms sales to Saudi Arabia a priority since returning to office. In 2025, the United States agreed to sell the kingdom an arms package worth nearly $142 billion, which the White House called “the largest defence cooperation ⁠agreement” Washington has ever done. Saudi Arabia is pursuing ambitious economic and military modernisation plans under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 agenda. US approves visas for Iranian representatives for UN General Assembly next week The Trump administration has approved visas for top Iranian officials, including the president and foreign minister, to attend the UN General Assembly high-level meeting in New York next week even as the two countries are locked in a stalemated war. The State Department said Thursday it had approved visas for Iran’s “core delegation” to participate in the UN meetings. The core delegation includes President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Also Read: China urges Iran to rein in Houthis after Saudi Arabia’s appeal for help: Report “Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level week. The delegation will be under travel restrictions and will face prohibitions on the purchase of luxury and other goods per our policy,” the statement said. Trump hails ‘major progress’ toward US Army base in Poland In a post on Truth Social, the president said there is “major progress” toward opening a US Army base in Poland. “GREAT NEWS! Thanks to the bold leadership of my friend, Karol Nawrocki, President of Poland, major progress is being made toward establishing a US Army base in Poland. If this happens, the location will be announced very soon. This will be a historic step for our Great US/Polish Alliance,” he wrote.

The deal will augment Saudi Arabia’s operational aircraft and enhance its air-to-air, and air-to-ground self-defence capability. This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the US by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally.

US to sell 48 F-35 Lightning fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, help it deter threats

President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he is approaching a critical juncture in the Iran war and has to take a decision on whether to restart massive attacks in an effort to bring the conflict to a close.“I have a big decision coming up. Do I want to go in and annihilate them [the Iranian regime] or do I not? It’s a big decision. Anything could happen with me,” Trump told Axios.&nbsp;Though the US president has made similar threats earlier, his comments come ahead of a planned meeting with leaders from six Gulf countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.The meeting would be crucial in charting the next phase of the war, including whether to intensify military action or make another push for diplomacy. If Trump wants to resume major combat operations, he would need agreement of support from his regional allies.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tata-trusts-chairman-noel-tata-calls-chandrasekaran-s-reappointment-illegal-rejects-tata-sons-listing-1789664770040">Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing</a>&nbsp;Trump has been repeatedly saying in recent days that the war will end soon. However, some US officials warn that the conflict has settled into an unsustainable, neither-war-nor-peace stalemate, and they believe Trump could return to major combat operations after the midterms if a deal isn’t reached by then.&nbsp;Trump made it clear that he wants to use the meeting at the UN to hear directly from regional allies about the war’s next steps.“I want to find out where they are and how they are doing. We have been very protective of them,” Trump said.The Gulf countries which will be participating in the meting are Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.Trump refused to commit, whether he will decide on the path forward before or after the midterms.&nbsp;In early August, Trump held off on resuming major combat operations after Saudi Arabia and Qatar expressed concern that Iran would bomb Saudi oil and gas facilities in retaliation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-urges-iran-to-rein-in-houthis-after-saudi-arabia-s-appeal-for-help-report-1789657903169">China urges Iran to rein in Houthis after Saudi Arabia’s appeal for help: Report</a>&nbsp;Trump then suspended negotiations with Tehran and launched a new economic sanctions campaign, while continuing a naval blockade on Iranian ports and focusing the US military on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and increasing oil flow to the global energy market.&nbsp;The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high.Trump further told Axios that he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil. “Not one ship has gone to Iran since we started. They tried and we blew them up,” he said.The president added that Iran is in direct contact with the US and that the Iranians still want to reach a deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-firm-linked-to-trump-s-sons-signs-mou-with-pakistan-army-gets-initial-order-1789648161978">US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order</a>&nbsp;US officials say Trump and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth have ordered the military to maintain its level of forces in the Middle East until the end of the year and be ready for a potential return to full-scale combat.The officials say Trump will have to decide on the way forward soon, partly because the US military can’t stay in its current holding pattern much longer.&nbsp;“At some point you have to decide what is the end game,” said one official.&nbsp;The White House has also been working on a post-war regional strategy to contain Iran while expanding normalisation of relations between Israel and its neighbours.&nbsp;Notably, the Oct. 27 election in Israel and the US midterms in November will play a prominent role in shaping up the planning.

The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high. President Trump said he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil.

President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he is approaching a critical juncture in the Iran war and has to take a decision on whether to restart massive attacks in an effort to bring the conflict to a close. “I have a big decision coming up. Do I want to go in and annihilate them [the Iranian regime] or do I not? It’s a big decision. Anything could happen with me,” Trump told Axios. Though the US president has made similar threats earlier, his comments come ahead of a planned meeting with leaders from six Gulf countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday. The meeting would be crucial in charting the next phase of the war, including whether to intensify military action or make another push for diplomacy. If Trump wants to resume major combat operations, he would need agreement of support from his regional allies. Also Read: Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing Trump has been repeatedly saying in recent days that the war will end soon. However, some US officials warn that the conflict has settled into an unsustainable, neither-war-nor-peace stalemate, and they believe Trump could return to major combat operations after the midterms if a deal isn’t reached by then. Trump made it clear that he wants to use the meeting at the UN to hear directly from regional allies about the war’s next steps. “I want to find out where they are and how they are doing. We have been very protective of them,” Trump said. The Gulf countries which will be participating in the meting are Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman. Trump refused to commit, whether he will decide on the path forward before or after the midterms. In early August, Trump held off on resuming major combat operations after Saudi Arabia and Qatar expressed concern that Iran would bomb Saudi oil and gas facilities in retaliation. Also Read: China urges Iran to rein in Houthis after Saudi Arabia’s appeal for help: Report Trump then suspended negotiations with Tehran and launched a new economic sanctions campaign, while continuing a naval blockade on Iranian ports and focusing the US military on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and increasing oil flow to the global energy market. The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high. Trump further told Axios that he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil. “Not one ship has gone to Iran since we started. They tried and we blew them up,” he said. The president added that Iran is in direct contact with the US and that the Iranians still want to reach a deal. Also Read: US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order US officials say Trump and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth have ordered the military to maintain its level of forces in the Middle East until the end of the year and be ready for a potential return to full-scale combat. The officials say Trump will have to decide on the way forward soon, partly because the US military can’t stay in its current holding pattern much longer. “At some point you have to decide what is the end game,” said one official. The White House has also been working on a post-war regional strategy to contain Iran while expanding normalisation of relations between Israel and its neighbours. Notably, the Oct. 27 election in Israel and the US midterms in November will play a prominent role in shaping up the planning.

The US military has significantly increased oil and gas tanker transit through the strait, but the traffic is still below pre-war levels, and consequently oil prices remain high. President Trump said he is very satisfied that the naval blockade has prevented Iran from exporting its oil.

‘I have a big decision coming up’: Trump says he’s approaching major ‘crossroad’ in Iran war

Ukraine plans to spend a record 4.9 trillion hryvnia (around $109 billion) on defence and security in 2027 as its war with Russia continues to put pressure on the country’s economy.&nbsp;The planned defence spending will account for nearly two-thirds of Ukraine’s total government expenditure next year and around 43.8% of its GDP, according to the draft budget. The allocation is the highest since the start of the full-scale war with Russia in 2022.&nbsp;The war has caused billions of dollars in destruction and placed heavy pressure on Ukraine’s finances. The country initially relied on its own revenues to fund defence spending but has increasingly turned to foreign partners to cover its growing needs.&nbsp;The Ukrainian government plans to seek an additional $52.6 billion in foreign aid next year, including funding from the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.&nbsp;Kiyv's Finance Minister Sergiy Marchenko said the draft 2027 budget was prepared while Russian attacks continue and security and defence needs remain a priority.&nbsp;“This is unquestionably the government’s number one priority,” Marchenko said in a statement published on Tuesday. He added that all available domestic resources were being directed towards strengthening Ukraine’s ability to continue the war.&nbsp;Around one third of the planned defence spending will be used for soldiers’ wages. Most of the remaining funds will go towards weapons and military equipment, according to the government.For comparison, Russia has planned to spend around 13.6 trillion rubles, or about $161 billion, on defence in 2027. That would account for around 30% of its budget.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tata-trusts-chairman-noel-tata-calls-chandrasekaran-s-reappointment-illegal-rejects-tata-sons-listing-1789664770040">Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing</a><h2>Zelensky warns of difficult measures</h2>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned parliament on Tuesday that lawmakers would have to approve “unpleasant and unpopular” measures to secure foreign financing.&nbsp;Among the measures is a proposed tax on foreign parcels. Zelensky said such steps were necessary to meet Ukraine’s defence requirements and maintain the country’s resilience.&nbsp;Ukraine has received around $200 billion in financing from foreign partners since the war began in 2022, in addition to billions of dollars in military assistance.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Turkey has proposed measures to Russia and Ukraine aimed at stopping attacks on civilian ships in Black Sea, AFP reported, citing a Turkish diplomat.&nbsp;The proposal comes after a rise in attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea in recent months, with drones frequently used in the attacks. Many of the vessels targeted were Turkish.&nbsp;A Turkish defence source said almost 90 ships were attacked in August alone. Turkey’s IMEAK Chamber of Shipping also said at least 22 Turkish-owned vessels were attacked between June and August 27.

Ukraine plans to spend a record $109 billion on defence and security in 2027, accounting for around 44% of its GDP, as the country seeks $53 billion in additional foreign aid amid its ongoing war with Russia.

Ukraine plans to spend a record 4.9 trillion hryvnia (around $109 billion) on defence and security in 2027 as its war with Russia continues to put pressure on the country’s economy. The planned defence spending will account for nearly two-thirds of Ukraine’s total government expenditure next year and around 43.8% of its GDP, according to the draft budget. The allocation is the highest since the start of the full-scale war with Russia in 2022. The war has caused billions of dollars in destruction and placed heavy pressure on Ukraine’s finances. The country initially relied on its own revenues to fund defence spending but has increasingly turned to foreign partners to cover its growing needs. The Ukrainian government plans to seek an additional $52.6 billion in foreign aid next year, including funding from the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. Kiyv's Finance Minister Sergiy Marchenko said the draft 2027 budget was prepared while Russian attacks continue and security and defence needs remain a priority. “This is unquestionably the government’s number one priority,” Marchenko said in a statement published on Tuesday. He added that all available domestic resources were being directed towards strengthening Ukraine’s ability to continue the war. Around one third of the planned defence spending will be used for soldiers’ wages. Most of the remaining funds will go towards weapons and military equipment, according to the government. For comparison, Russia has planned to spend around 13.6 trillion rubles, or about $161 billion, on defence in 2027. That would account for around 30% of its budget. Also Read: Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata calls Chandrasekaran’s reappointment ‘illegal’, rejects Tata Sons listing Zelensky warns of difficult measures Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned parliament on Tuesday that lawmakers would have to approve “unpleasant and unpopular” measures to secure foreign financing. Among the measures is a proposed tax on foreign parcels. Zelensky said such steps were necessary to meet Ukraine’s defence requirements and maintain the country’s resilience. Ukraine has received around $200 billion in financing from foreign partners since the war began in 2022, in addition to billions of dollars in military assistance. Meanwhile, Turkey has proposed measures to Russia and Ukraine aimed at stopping attacks on civilian ships in Black Sea, AFP reported, citing a Turkish diplomat. The proposal comes after a rise in attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea in recent months, with drones frequently used in the attacks. Many of the vessels targeted were Turkish. A Turkish defence source said almost 90 ships were attacked in August alone. Turkey’s IMEAK Chamber of Shipping also said at least 22 Turkish-owned vessels were attacked between June and August 27.

Ukraine plans to spend a record $109 billion on defence and security in 2027, accounting for around 44% of its GDP, as the country seeks $53 billion in additional foreign aid amid its ongoing war with Russia.

Ukraine plans record $109 bn defence spending, nearly two thirds of budget amid Russia war

Iran-backed Houthis scored their biggest military victory in years as they swept through Yemen's Red Sea coastline. This has potentially put them in a strong position to call the shots in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Now, the Houthis' latest offensive has brought into the spotlight their elusive leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi.After Israel killed the leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas, al-Houthi is seen as Iran's most prominent and resilient ally. During the course of the ongoing West Asia war, he has openly expressed support for Iran and threatened to join the hostilities.He rose to prominence in 2004 after assuming leadership of the group as his brother, Hussein al-Houthi, was killed by Yemeni security forces. Subsequently, he commanded the group in six rounds of war against the Yemeni government till 2010.In 2014, the group made its biggest move by seizing control of Yemen's capital, Sanaa. A year later, the UN Security Council imposed an arms embargo, asset freeze and travel ban on him. While he was designated as a terrorist by the US as well in January 2021, he was de-listed a month later.

In 2014, the group made its biggest move by seizing control of Yemen's capital, Sanaa. A year later, the UN Security Council imposed an arms embargo, asset freeze and travel ban on him. 

Iran-backed Houthis scored their biggest military victory in years as they swept through Yemen's Red Sea coastline. This has potentially put them in a strong position to call the shots in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Now, the Houthis' latest offensive has brought into the spotlight their elusive leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi. After Israel killed the leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas, al-Houthi is seen as Iran's most prominent and resilient ally. During the course of the ongoing West Asia war, he has openly expressed support for Iran and threatened to join the hostilities. He rose to prominence in 2004 after assuming leadership of the group as his brother, Hussein al-Houthi, was killed by Yemeni security forces. Subsequently, he commanded the group in six rounds of war against the Yemeni government till 2010. In 2014, the group made its biggest move by seizing control of Yemen's capital, Sanaa. A year later, the UN Security Council imposed an arms embargo, asset freeze and travel ban on him. While he was designated as a terrorist by the US as well in January 2021, he was de-listed a month later.

In 2014, the group made its biggest move by seizing control of Yemen's capital, Sanaa. A year later, the UN Security Council imposed an arms embargo, asset freeze and travel ban on him.&nbsp;

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