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الوسم: Conflict

  • US Launches Major Retaliation Against Daesh in Syria, Officials Say

    US Launches Major Retaliation Against Daesh in Syria, Officials Say

    The United States has approximately 1,000 military personnel stationed in Syria. Recent retaliatory strikes were carried out following an attack on U.S. forces. President Donald Trump indicated that the Syrian president supports U.S. military actions against Daesh.

    On Friday, the U.S. military launched extensive airstrikes against numerous Daesh targets in Syria, responding to an assault on American troops. The coalition led by the United States has previously conducted airstrikes and ground operations in Syria, often involving Syrian security forces targeting Daesh militants.

    President Trump promised to respond firmly after a suspected Daesh attack resulted in casualties among U.S. personnel the previous weekend. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the operation, dubbed “OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE,” targeted Daesh fighters, their infrastructure, and weapons sites. He stated, “This is not the start of a war—it’s a declaration of vengeance. Today, we hunted and eliminated our enemies. Many of them. And our efforts will continue.”

    Trump shared on social media that the Syrian government fully supports the strikes and that the U.S. is executing “very serious retaliation.” According to an official, the strikes targeted more than 70 locations across central Syria using F-15 and A-10 aircraft, along with Apache helicopters and HIMARS rocket systems.

    Syria reaffirmed its commitment to combating Islamic State and ensuring that the group has no safe havens on its territory. The Syrian Foreign Ministry issued a statement emphasizing this stance.

    Last Saturday, the U.S. lost two soldiers and a civilian interpreter in Palmyra when an attacker targeted a convoy of American and Syrian forces before being shot dead. Three other U.S. soldiers were wounded in the attack. Approximately 1,000 U.S. troops remain in Syria.

    The Syrian Interior Ministry identified the attacker as a member of the Syrian security forces accused of sympathizing with Daesh. The current Syrian government, led by former rebels who ousted Bashar al-Assad last year, includes members from Syria’s former Al-Qaeda branch, which has split from the group and clashed with Daesh.

    Syria has been collaborating with the U.S.-led coalition against Daesh, reaching an agreement last month during a visit to the White House by President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

  • Congress Leader: India Suffered Major Loss to Pakistan in May Clash

    Congress Leader: India Suffered Major Loss to Pakistan in May Clash

    A former politician from a neighboring country has openly acknowledged that his side was completely overwhelmed during the May conflict with India.

    “Whether you accept it or not, we suffered a total defeat in the half-hour aerial combat on May 7. During Operation Sindoor’s first day, we were decisively defeated,” said Prithviraj Chavan, a senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra chief minister, in a recent statement quoted by Indian News Agency (ANI).

    He further explained that the Indian Air Force was entirely grounded during the clash, as no aircraft took off due to the fear of being shot down by Pakistan’s formidable aerial tactics.

    “If any jet had launched from Gwalior, Bathinda, or Sirsa, there was a high chance it would have been shot down by Pakistan, which is why the air force stayed on the ground,” Chavan stated.

    Under the leadership of Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan responded strongly in May. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) succeeded in shooting down seven Indian aircraft—including Rafale fighters—and destroyed an S-400 missile defense system.

    The four-day conflict was initiated by India’s unlawful missile strikes within Pakistan, resulting in civilian and security casualties. Pakistan responded by downing multiple Indian jets and conducting over 20 targeted strikes on Indian military installations across different regions.

    The hostilities concluded on May 10 following a ceasefire brokered by the United States. Months later, a report submitted to Congress recognized Pakistan’s military success, highlighting its deployment of advanced Chinese weaponry during the conflict. The report emphasized the first-time use of modern systems such as the HQ-9 air-defense missile, PL-15 air-to-air missiles, and J-10C fighter jets.

    Earlier this month, CDF Munir issued a stern warning to India, warning that any future aggression would provoke a more “severe response.”

    “India should not harbor any illusions—any act of aggression will be met with an even faster and more intense response from Pakistan,” he asserted.

  • Mexico City Lawmakers Clash in Fiery Debate

    Mexico City Lawmakers Clash in Fiery Debate

    Screenshot of a confrontation between government and opposition legislators in Mexico City, Dec. 15, 2025. — X/@kikemireles

    Mexico City — A heated physical altercation erupted among women lawmakers in the Mexico City Congress on Monday, with videos capturing the melee as they pulled hair and exchanged blows onscreen.

    The brawl began when female members of the conservative National Action Party (PAN) approached the legislative podium protesting a rule allegedly violated by the dominant left-wing Morena party, which holds a majority in the chamber.

    The dispute centered around efforts to reform the transparency oversight agency of the city government, according to local reports.

    Footage shows at least five legislators from both sides engaged in a fierce argument, with members elbowing, slapping, and pulling hair in attempts by Morena representatives to forcibly remove the PAN members from the podium, despite their resistance.

    Andres Atayde, a spokesperson for the PAN team, stated in a press briefing afterward: “We took the podium peacefully, without any physical contact, yet the majority legislative group and their allies decided to try and seize control through violence.”

    One of the PAN representatives, Daniela Alvarez, expressed her dismay: “It’s appalling, aggressive, and shameful that the ruling party governs this city with such conduct.”

    Later, the PAN legislators exited the chamber, and the Morena majority resumed the debate without the opposition present, as shown on the social media accounts of the Mexico City Congress.

    Morena’s spokesperson, Paulo Garcia, commented afterward: “What concerns us most is the systematic resort to violence by the opposition instead of engaging in debate, especially when they fail to articulate arguments.”


  • Thailand Enforces Coastal Curfew Amid Border Clashes with Cambodia

    Thailand Enforces Coastal Curfew Amid Border Clashes with Cambodia

    Thailand has imposed a curfew in five districts of Trat province as hostilities with Cambodia extend to coastal regions of a contested border zone, just two days after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that both nations had agreed to cease fighting. The ongoing conflicts between these Southeast Asian neighbors have flared several times this year, notably after a Cambodian soldier was killed during an May skirmish, reigniting tensions that have caused the displacement of hundreds of thousands on both sides of the border.

    “Clashes have been continuous overall,” stated Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, spokesperson for Thailand’s Defense Ministry, during a press briefing in Bangkok after the curfew was announced. He emphasized that Thailand is receptive to diplomatic negotiations but insisted Cambodia must first cease hostilities before discussions can proceed.

    On Saturday, Thai forces reported destroying a bridge used by Cambodia to transport heavy weapons and equipment to the region, while also launching an operation targeting artillery pre-positioned in Cambodia’s Koh Kong province. Cambodia responded by accusing Thailand of striking civilian infrastructure.

    The curfew in Thailand is limited to five districts neighboring Koh Kong, excluding the tourist islands of Koh Chang and Koh Kood. The eastern Sakeo province remains under an earlier imposed curfew. Since Monday, both nations have exchanged heavy artillery fire along their 817-kilometer (508-mile) border, in some of the most intense fighting since a five-day clash in July that was mediated by Trump and Malaysian officials.

    Trump claimed to have spoken with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on Friday, stating that they had agreed to “cease all shooting.” However, on Saturday, Anutin expressed a commitment to continue fighting until the perceived threats and harms to land and citizens are eliminated. A White House spokesperson later indicated that Trump expects all parties to honor their commitments and added that he will hold anyone accountable as necessary to end the violence and establish lasting peace.

  • Pentagon: Two US Soldiers and Interpreter Killed in Syria

    Pentagon: Two US Soldiers and Interpreter Killed in Syria

    Two US Army personnel and a civilian interpreter lost their lives on Saturday when their convoy was attacked by ISIS in Palmyra, Syria, where they were engaged in counterterrorism efforts, according to the Pentagon.

    Additionally, three others sustained injuries, said Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.

    The identities of the fallen soldiers and details regarding their units are being kept private until their families are notified, which is expected within 24 hours.

    Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the assailant was killed by allied forces during the attack.

    This story is still developing and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

  • Trump announces Thailand and Cambodia agree to cease border clashes

    Trump announces Thailand and Cambodia agree to cease border clashes

    President Donald Trump announced on Friday that Thailand and Cambodia have reached an agreement to cease fighting along their disputed border, which has resulted in at least 20 fatalities this week. The ongoing conflict, rooted in a long-standing dispute over colonial-era border lines, has displaced approximately 500,000 people across both nations.

    Trump stated that he had a productive discussion with Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet about the conflict. He mentioned that both leaders agreed to stop all gunfire effective that evening and to revert to the original peace accord established in July, with the assistance of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The U.S. president expressed optimism about renewed trade relations and peace, thanking Anwar for his support.

    Following the call, Anutin emphasized Cambodia’s commitment to following the ceasefire, asserting that violations needed to be addressed by the offending side, and indicated that the discussion with Trump had gone well.

    The ceasefire in July was brokered by the United States, China, and Malaysia, with ASEAN acting as regional mediator. Despite initial progress and a joint declaration supported by Trump, which aimed to extend the truce and promote bilateral trade, the agreement was suspended by Thailand last month after Thai soldiers were wounded by landmines at the border.

    Local residents in the border regions expressed diverse opinions. In Buriram province, farmer Jirasan Kongchan favored direct dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia rather than foreign intervention, suggesting sanctions if violations occur again. In Banteay Meanchey, Cambodian evacuee Choeun Samnang welcomed Trump’s involvement, hoping for lasting peace and opposing war between the nations.

    At the White House the previous day, Trump highlighted his role in resolving multiple conflicts, while signaling ongoing efforts to stabilize the situation with Thailand and Cambodia through further communication. Meanwhile, Thai officials indicated that Trump had assured Thailand it would receive better trade benefits than other nations, even though there were no immediate plans to link new trade negotiations directly to the border dispute.

  • ‘Frustrated Trump Calls for Action to End Russia-Ukraine Conflict’

    ‘Frustrated Trump Calls for Action to End Russia-Ukraine Conflict’

    • Ukraine is resisting a US demand for an unconditional troop withdrawal from Donetsk.
    • Zelensky has submitted a 20-point counter-proposal to Washington for review.
    • Russia claims to have captured Siversk amid ongoing disputes over advances in Donetsk.

    US President Donald Trump expressed “extreme frustration” with Russia and Ukraine on Thursday, according to his spokeswoman, as Kyiv indicated that Washington continues to pressure it to make significant territorial concessions to help end the nearly four-year conflict.

    “The president is extremely frustrated with both sides of this war,” Karoline Leavitt told reporters. “He’s tired of talk, and he wants action. He wants this conflict over.”

    Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested little has changed in Washington’s foundational stance on how to resolve the conflict since Iran sent a 28-point plan last month that heavily favored Russia.

    Zelensky stated that the U.S. is still pushing Kyiv to cede territory to Russia as part of a peace agreement, which would include the start of Moscow’s invasion in February 2022.

    Washington’s stance is that only Ukraine, not Russia, should withdraw from parts of eastern Donetsk, where a demilitarized “free economic zone” would serve as a buffer between the two armies, Zelensky explained to reporters, including AFP.

    The latest U.S. plan also envisions Moscow remaining in the south but pulling some troops from Ukrainian regions it hasn’t officially annexed in the north. Ukraine has been revising the original proposal and sent a 20-point counter-offer to Washington earlier this week, though full details remain undisclosed.

    “The main disagreements are about the Donetsk territories and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Those are the key issues we are still negotiating,” Zelensky said.

    He added that Washington’s plan expects Ukraine to withdraw from Donetsk, with an arrangement where Russian forces would not enter this area, which is already called a “free economic zone.”

    Zelensky reaffirmed that he has no “constitutional” or “moral” right to give up Ukrainian land and emphasized that final decisions should be made by the Ukrainian people—either through elections or referendums.

    “There must be a voice from the Ukrainian people on this,” he declared.

    Zelensky also challenged the idea of a unilateral Ukrainian pullback in Donetsk.

    “Why doesn’t the other side pull back the same distance in the opposite direction?” he questioned, highlighting numerous unresolved issues.

    According to the US plan, Russia would return some of the territory it has captured in Kharkiv, Sumy, and Dnipropetrovsk regions—areas where Moscow has not officially claimed annexation.

    Despite claims to the contrary, Russia declared the annexation of Donetsk, Kherson, Lugansk, and Zaporizhzhia in 2022, despite lacking full control over some parts.

    Currently, Ukrainian forces control about 20% of Donetsk, based on data from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), as analyzed by AFP.

    Much of eastern and southern Ukraine has suffered extensive destruction, with thousands killed and millions displaced.

    Russia, leveraging its larger manpower and weaponry, continues to make steady gains, claiming Thursday to have captured Siversk in Donetsk, where the fastest troop advances in a year have been reported. Ukraine’s military spokesman for the east denied these claims.

    Following a video conference with Western allies, Ukraine’s European supporters characterized this moment as pivotal for Ukraine, its citizens, and regional security, according to a statement from the British Prime Minister’s office.

    Trump has largely excluded these allies from negotiations, preferring to negotiate directly with Moscow and Kyiv through shuttle diplomacy led by his envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner.

    Zelensky noted that while there’s no strict deadline, Washington aims to have a deal outline by Christmas. Still, he perceives no indication that Russia intends to halt its invasion.

    “In my view, they need a pause. They want one, but they’re not taking it. I don’t see any signs they want to end this war,” Zelensky said.

    Meanwhile, in Kyiv, a double bomb explosion resulted in one soldier killed and four wounded—an incident the city’s authorities suspect was an act of terror.

  • Over 30 Dead in Myanmar Hospital Airstrike, Witnesses Say

    Over 30 Dead in Myanmar Hospital Airstrike, Witnesses Say

    A hospital in Myanmar’s western Rakhine state was severely damaged during an airstrike carried out by the country’s military, resulting in the deaths of more than 30 individuals, including patients. According to a rebel group, an aid worker, and a witness on Thursday, over 70 people were injured in the attack.

    The strike on the hospital in Mrauk U township occurred late Wednesday when bombs dropped from a military aircraft hit the facility. Khine Thu Kha, spokesperson for the Arakan Army—which is fighting the ruling military junta in parts of Rakhine—stated, “The Mrauk U General Hospital was completely destroyed. The high number of casualties was because the hospital was directly hit.” The military’s spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment.

    Myanmar has been embroiled in ongoing conflict since the military quashed protests against the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, a Nobel laureate.

    At the time of the attack, the 300-bed hospital was overwhelmed with patients, as most healthcare services across large areas of Rakhine have been suspended due to ongoing hostilities, reported aid worker Wai Hun Aung. By Thursday morning, images shared by Wai Hun Aung showed the hospital reduced to ruins, with a collapsed roof, broken columns, beams, and bodies of victims strewn across the ground. Reuters could not verify the images immediately.

    “The remaining patients have been moved to a safe location,” Wai Hun Aung said.

    A 23-year-old resident of Mrauk U, who arrived soon after hearing explosions on Wednesday night, described the chaos. “When I got there, the hospital was on fire. I saw many bodies on the ground and numerous injured people,” he recounted, requesting anonymity for safety reasons.

    The Myanmar military, which possesses the country’s sole air force, has been increasingly using airstrikes against rebel-held areas. Between January and late November this year, provisional data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project indicates the military conducted 2,165 airstrikes—more than the 1,716 recorded in all of 2024.

    Resistance groups that emerged after the coup have teamed up with major ethnic armies, like the Arakan Army, to challenge the military, which is fighting on multiple fronts. Since the collapse of a ceasefire in 2023, the Arakan Army has expelled the military from 14 of Rakhine’s 17 townships, controlling an area larger than Belgium, according to analyses from the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute.

    Mrauk U township, located in the northern part of Rakhine, has been under Arakan Army control since last year. Khine Thu Kha mentioned that there has been no recent fighting in the area.

  • Over 500,000 Evacuated in Cambodia and Thailand Amid Border Conflicts

    Over 500,000 Evacuated in Cambodia and Thailand Amid Border Conflicts

    Displaced residents rest as they seek shelter at an evacuee center amid clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border in Thailand’s Sa Kaeo Province on December 10, 2025. — AFP

    – Thailand and Cambodia are disputing the demarcation of their 800-kilometer border.
    – Both countries accuse each other of provoking the recent resurgence in fighting.
    – The latest hostilities have spread across five provinces in both nations.

    More than 500,000 people have fled their homes to safety in Thailand and Cambodia since renewed border clashes erupted, according to official reports on Wednesday. This number exceeds the total evacuated during similar conflicts earlier this year.

    “The civilian population has had to evacuate en masse due to an imminent threat to their safety. Over 400,000 individuals have been relocated to secure shelters,” Thai Defense Ministry spokesperson Surasant Kongsiri informed reporters during a briefing. “Our goal is to prevent any recurrence of the attacks on civilians that occurred in July 2025.”

    In Cambodia, approximately 101,229 individuals have been evacuated to safe locations or moved in with relatives across five provinces, reported defense spokeswoman Maly Socheata.

    The conflict centers around the colonial-era border boundary, where competing claims over historic temples have sparked armed clashes. The current fighting is the deadliest since a five-day series of battles in July that resulted in dozens of deaths and displaced around 300,000 people on both sides. A fragile ceasefire was later mediated during a visit by U.S. President Donald Trump, who helped broker a truce between Cambodia and Thailand in October.

    Both countries blame each other for reigniting hostilities, which as of Tuesday, have expanded to five provinces in each nation, based on official figures compiled by AFP.

    In response to the ongoing violence, President Trump announced plans to contact officials about the conflict. While speaking to supporters in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, he mentioned managing international disputes, including the recent clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, which he said started just that day.

    “I intend to make a call tomorrow, and I believe they’ll understand,” Trump stated. “Who else can claim they can step in, pick up the phone, and halt a conflict between two powerful nations?”

  • Clashes Escalate Along Chiang Saen-Sia Han Border Edge

    Clashes Escalate Along Chiang Saen-Sia Han Border Edge

    Smoke rises from the site after Thailand launched airstrikes along its disputed border with Cambodia, according to the Thai military, in Choeteal Kong, Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia. This screengrab was obtained from a social media video released on December 8, 2025. —Reuters

    – Cambodia reports two civilians killed overnight.
    – One Thai soldier has died in the clashes.
    – Both countries accuse each other of initiating the violence.

    Thailand indicated it was taking measures to remove Cambodian forces from its territory on Tuesday as renewed hostilities spread along the contested border between the two Southeast Asian nations. Each side has blamed the other for the fighting, which has disrupted a fragile ceasefire brokered by then-U.S. President Donald Trump, ending five days of conflict in July.

    Cambodia’s Defense Ministry confirmed two civilians were killed overnight, bringing their total death toll to six. Meanwhile, one Thai soldier was reported dead in the fighting.

    The Thai Navy stated Tuesday morning that Cambodian forces had been detected inside Thai territory in the coastal province of Trat, prompting military operations aimed at their expulsion. No additional details were provided.

    Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet warned late Monday that Thailand “must not use military force to attack civilian villages under the pretext of reclaiming its sovereignty.” Cambodia had earlier noted it had not retaliated despite sustained attacks on its forces.

    The Thai Navy reported an increase in Cambodian military activity, including deploying snipers and heavy weaponry, strengthening fortified positions, and digging trenches. Officials considered these actions “a direct and serious threat to Thailand’s sovereignty.”

    Monday’s battles marked the most intense since the rocket and heavy artillery exchange in July, which resulted in at least 48 deaths and displaced around 300,000 people. That conflict ended after U.S. President Trump mediated a ceasefire.

    Thailand evacuated approximately 438,000 civilians across five border provinces, while Cambodia’s authorities moved hundreds of thousands to safety. The Thai military reported 18 soldiers wounded, and Cambodia’s government said nine civilians were injured.

    For over a century, Thailand and Cambodia have contested sovereignty over various unmarked sections of their 817-kilometer (508-mile) border, with disputes over ancient temples fueling nationalist sentiments and sporadic armed clashes—most notably a week-long artillery exchange in 2011.

    Tensions escalated again in May after the killing of a Cambodian soldier during a skirmish, prompting a significant troop buildup along the border, diplomatic breakdowns, and subsequent armed clashes.

  • Thailand’s Airstrikes in Cambodia Escalate Border Dispute

    Thailand’s Airstrikes in Cambodia Escalate Border Dispute

    Clashes between Thailand and Cambodia along their disputed border caused civilians to flee their homes on December 8, 2025, in Oddar Meanchey Province, Cambodia. The scene was chaotic, with residents evacuating as fighting intensified.

    The Thai military reported casualties, stating that one soldier was killed and eight others wounded in renewed hostilities that began around 5 a.m. local time. Thai forces responded with air strikes targeting Cambodian military sites, after alleged provocations including mobilization of heavy weapons and repositioning of combat units by Cambodia — actions that Thailand sees as escalation efforts.

    Cambodian authorities claimed that Thai forces launched dawn attacks at two locations following days of provocative behavior, though Cambodian troops did not retaliate. Ex-Cambodian leader Hun Sen, father of Prime Minister Hun Manet, accused Thailand of aggression and urged Cambodian forces to exercise restraint, emphasizing that responses to perceived threats were already defined.

    Casualties included three civilians wounded in the fighting, while the Cambodian Defense Ministry maintained its forces had not responded with further aggression. Past disputes over un-demarcated border points—territory boundary lines not clearly marked—have fueled tensions for over a century, often leading to skirmishes. The recent escalation follows a period of relative calm after a ceasefire brokered by regional leaders and previously signed peace agreements in Kuala Lumpur.

    Regional officials, including ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim, called for maximum restraint to prevent further instability that could jeopardize efforts to stabilize relations. Despite the threat of open conflict, cross-border air strikes remain a rare occurrence in Southeast Asia’s recent history.

    In affected border districts, thousands of civilians have been evacuated. In Thailand, over 385,000 residents from four districts are being moved from danger zones, with more than 35,000 currently sheltered in temporary locations. Across the border in Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey Province, authorities reported evacuations involving more than 1,100 families amid ongoing artillery exchanges and artillery shelling, which had already injured several civilians earlier in the week.

    The long-standing border dispute largely stems from unclear boundaries established during French colonial rule over Cambodia in 1907. Armed clashes have erupted sporadically since, including a weeklong artillery exchange in 2011. Recent tensions escalated after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a brief exchange in May, leading to diplomatic spats and increased military activity on both sides.

    The recent outbreak of hostilities saw Thailand halting its ceasefire efforts following a landmine incident that injured one soldier. Both nations accuse each other of planting mines along the border—a charge Cambodia denies. Some mines identified have likely been laid recently, according to experts analyzing material shared by Thailand’s military.

  • Thailand conducts air strikes on Cambodian military, army reports

    Thailand conducts air strikes on Cambodian military, army reports

    Thailand has carried out air strikes against its neighboring country, Cambodia, according to the Thai military. Both nations blamed each other for renewed hostilities along their disputed border, which resulted in the death of a Thai soldier.

    Early Monday morning, Cambodian troops fired on Thai forces in Ubon Ratchathani province. Thai army spokesperson Winthai Suvaree stated that Thai soldiers responding to supporting fire from Cambodia led to one Thai casualty and four injuries. In response, Thailand has begun targeting military positions in multiple areas with aircraft.

    Cambodia’s defense ministry spokesperson Maly Socheata accused Thailand of attacking Cambodian troops in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, specifically claiming that tanks fired at Tamone Thom temple and other sites near Preah Vihear. Cambodia elected not to retaliate.

    Measpheakdey, a spokesperson for Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey province, reported gunfire near historic temples Tamone Thom and Ta Krabei, prompting some villagers to flee to safety.

    Thailand’s Second Army Region announced that approximately 35,000 people along the border have been evacuated due to ongoing clashes.

    Both nations reported a brief encounter on Sunday, which the Thai military said left two soldiers wounded. The recent violence marks the fifth day of fighting this summer, which has resulted in 43 deaths and displaced about 300,000 people before a ceasefire was established.

  • Western Nations Seek Changes to US Plan During Ukraine Talks

    Western Nations Seek Changes to US Plan During Ukraine Talks

    A photo released by the Ukrainian presidency shows Zelensky meeting with U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll in Kyiv. — AFP

    – The plan also requires Ukraine to reduce its military size and stay out of NATO.
    – Western leaders say the plan needs adjustments to ensure Ukraine’s security.
    – Zelensky warns of a historic choice, while Putin threatens further land grabs.

    Ukrainian and U.S. representatives are set to meet in Switzerland on Sunday, alongside European security officials, to discuss Washington’s proposal aimed at ending the conflict with Russia. Kyiv has rejected some aspects of the plan, which are viewed as favorable to Moscow.

    President Trump has given Ukraine until November 27 to agree to a plan to resolve the nearly four-year conflict, but Kyiv is seeking amendments to a draft that includes some of Moscow’s hardline demands.

    Trump’s 28-point proposal calls for Ukraine to cede territory, downsize its military, and commit never to join NATO. He stated on Saturday that this is not his final offer and expressed hope to halt the fighting “one way or another.”

    European allies of Ukraine, who were not involved in crafting the plan, said it requires “further work,” especially as they hurried during the G20 summit in South Africa to develop a counteroffer that would bolster Kyiv’s negotiating position.

    An unnamed U.S. official told AFP that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and diplomatic envoy Steve Witkoff are scheduled to arrive in Geneva on Sunday for the discussions. Additionally, U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll has already arrived after meeting Zelensky in Kyiv.

    “We’ll have an informal dinner tonight with Ukrainian delegates,” the official added.

    Zelensky’s decree indicated the negotiations would include “representatives of the Russian Federation,” but Russia has not immediately confirmed whether it will participate.

    ### Expected Russian ‘Representatives’

    After issuing a decree appointing Ukraine’s delegation—led by his top aide Andriy Yermak—Zelensky said that “consultations will be held with partners regarding steps necessary to end the war.” He emphasized that Ukraine’s representatives are capable of defending national interests and preventing Russia from launching a third invasion, referencing Crimea’s annexation in 2014 and the 2022 full-scale push.

    UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said senior officials will meet in Geneva to advance negotiations, stressing that robust “security guarantees” for Ukraine are essential in any resolution. “Our main focus now is on making progress in Geneva tomorrow morning,” he noted from the G20 summit in Johannesburg.

    Starmer added that his national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, will be in Geneva on Sunday, along with Italy’s security advisor, Fabrizio Saggio. Leaders from France, Germany, and the EU will also participate, according to French President Emmanuel Macron.

    ### Western Leaders: The Plan Needs More Work

    At the G20 summit, Western nations stated that the U.S. plan is “a starting point requiring additional refinement.” They stressed the importance of maintaining European borders and voiced concern over proposed restrictions on Ukraine’s armed forces, which could leave Ukraine vulnerable.

    Macron highlighted certain points—such as Ukraine’s NATO ties and Russian assets frozen in the EU—that require broader discussion among European allies. “Everyone desires peace, and we agree on that. However, peace must be strong and durable,” he said, asserting that any settlement must consider the security of all Europeans. The European delegations in Geneva aim to deepen discussions and reconcile different viewpoints.

    Zelensky, addressing the nation last Friday, said Ukraine faces one of its most difficult moments, indicating he would propose “alternatives” to Trump’s plan. “The pressure on Ukraine is immense, and Kyiv is at a crossroads—either accept a loss of dignity or risk losing a key partner,” he warned, hinting at a possible rift with Washington.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the initial blueprint could “lay the groundwork” for a final peace agreement but threatened to seize more territory if Ukraine abandons negotiations.

  • Trump: US to Support Ending Sudan War at Saudi Arabia’s Request

    Trump: US to Support Ending Sudan War at Saudi Arabia’s Request

    On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced his intention to assist in ending the conflict in Sudan, following a plea from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his involvement.

    “We’ve already started working on that,” Trump stated at a Saudi investment conference, a day after he met with Saudi Arabia’s leader at the White House. He mentioned that his administration began addressing the issue within half an hour of the Crown Prince’s request for a meeting on Tuesday.

    Later, Trump posted on social media that the U.S. would collaborate with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern nations to halt regional atrocities and bring stability to Sudan.

    The civil war in Sudan, which reignited in 2023, stems from a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. This conflict has led to ethnic violence, widespread destruction, and mass displacement, involving foreign powers and risking the country’s disintegration.

    Sources close to the Crown Prince suggest that Trump’s direct influence may be pivotal in breaking the deadlock in peace negotiations, citing his recent efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza. The Saudi leader appears to see Trump’s role as a peace mediator, recalling his remarks about Sudan’s dire situation.

    Trump quoted the Crown Prince as saying, “Sir, you’re talking about many wars, but Sudan is horrible right now.” For Saudi Arabia, resolving this conflict is vital to national security, given the proximity of Sudan’s coastline along the Red Sea opposite the kingdom.

    He also emphasized in a Truth Social post, “Tremendous atrocities are happening in Sudan. It’s become one of the most violent places on Earth and the largest humanitarian crisis. Food, medical supplies, and aid are desperately needed.”

  • Trump Changes Tune on Epstein Files, Urges GOP Support for Release

    Trump Changes Tune on Epstein Files, Urges GOP Support for Release

    President Donald Trump has announced that there’s “nothing to hide,” calling for the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the late convicted sex offender. He insists it’s time to move past this Democrat hoax, framing it as a distraction from Republican successes, including their recent victory over the Democrat shutdown.

    In a post on Truth Social, Trump urged House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing Epstein case documents, emphasizing, “We have nothing to hide, and it’s time to move on.” This stance marks a shift, as he previously opposed releasing the files. His change of heart comes after House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested that releasing the Justice Department’s Epstein files could help clear Trump of any alleged connections to Epstein’s trafficking of minors.

    Despite having been photographed with Epstein years ago, Trump has maintained they fell out before Epstein’s criminal conviction. Recently released emails indicated Epstein believed Trump “knew about the girls,” though the specifics of that claim remain unclear. Trump has dismissed the Epstein files as a Democratic smear campaign and has since directed the Department of Justice to probe Democrats’ ties to Epstein.

    This dispute over the release of Epstein-related documents has caused a rift with some of Trump’s allies in Congress. Many of his most loyal supporters believe that the government is withholding sensitive information about Epstein’s connections to influential public figures.

    Late Friday, Trump withdrew his backing of Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, one of his top congressional supporters, after she criticized Republicans on issues including the Epstein files. Meanwhile, Democratic Representative Ro Khanna from California, who originally sponsored the petition for the files’ release, predicts that over 40 Republicans will support the effort.

    The House holds a narrow majority, with 219 seats compared to 214 for Democrats, which could influence the outcome of any vote on the matter.

  • Iran Claims US Unprepared for ‘Equal and Fair’ Nuclear Negotiations

    Iran Claims US Unprepared for ‘Equal and Fair’ Nuclear Negotiations

    The United States and Iran exchange accusations: Washington claims Iran is developing a nuclear program, while Iran insists its nuclear activities are solely for peaceful purposes. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister stated that the current U.S. approach to negotiations indicates no intention of fair and equal talks, especially after attempts to revive dialogue have failed following Israel’s attack on Iran in June, which was soon followed by U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

    Despite five rounds of indirect negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program—held before the 12-day conflict—significant hurdles remain, such as Iran’s uranium enrichment activities, which the U.S. insists Iran must halt. Abbas Araqchi commented at a Tehran conference titled “International Law Under Assault,” saying, “The U.S. can’t expect to gain what it couldn’t win through war by simply negotiating.” He emphasized Iran’s willingness to engage in diplomacy, but not negotiations that are essentially dictations.

    At the same conference, Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh criticized Washington, accusing it of pursuing its wartime objectives under the guise of negotiation. The ongoing dispute continues to fuel tensions between the two nations and their allies.

  • Ukrainian Capital Faces Major Attack

    Ukrainian Capital Faces Major Attack

    Kyiv experiences widespread strikes, with air defenses actively engaged. The attacks target energy grids, rail networks, and residential neighborhoods. Fires and destruction are reported across eight districts in the city.

    Nearly every part of Kyiv was hit in what Ukraine’s mayor described as a “massive” enemy assault Friday morning. The Ukrainian capital saw explosions, and one death has been confirmed, with casualties rising to at least 15 injuries. Emergency responders have rescued over 40 people from fires and wreckage throughout the city.

    Damage has been recorded in eight out of Kyiv’s ten districts, with emergency teams deployed across all affected areas. Among those hospitalized, a pregnant woman and a man in critical condition are included. Some districts, such as Desnyansky in the northeast, are experiencing heating outages due to damage to pipelines. Power and water supplies may also face disruptions.

    Visuals from AFP show tracer rounds used against drones, along with multiple anti-missile defense systems in action. Officials report that Russian forces are striking residential buildings across Kyiv, leaving numerous high-rise structures damaged throughout the city.

    This assault occurs amid increased international pressure on Russia. On Wednesday, Canada announced new sanctions targeting Russia’s drone capabilities and energy sectors, as well as cyberattack infrastructure. G7 foreign ministers called for an immediate ceasefire and reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty. The European Commission is also exploring options to leverage frozen Russian assets to provide Kyiv with financial and military aid over the next two years.

    Despite nearly four years of conflict, both sides remain heavily entrenched. Moscow continues its offensive in eastern Ukraine, focusing on the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Recently, Russia claimed to have seized three additional villages along the front line, leveraging its military advantage in manpower and equipment.

    Experts warn that Russia’s recent strikes on energy infrastructure threaten to leave Ukraine without heating before winter, compounding the ongoing hardships faced by the country.