Year: 2026

The Missouri Supreme Court has unanimously halted the implementation of a new Republican-leaning House map ahead of the midterm elections, ordering a statewide referendum on its validity. This decision preserves the previous map, maintaining six GOP-leaning and two Democratic-leaning districts for the November general election.

Major General Nikolai Varpakhovich is in critical condition following a suspected assassination attempt in Saratov, Russia, where he was shot while leaving his home.

A hazardous materials alert at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) was triggered on Thursday evening after a woman reported carrying toxic substances in her handbag. Terminal 1 was evacuated, flight operations paused, and emergency teams are currently analysing the unknown substance amid safety concerns.

The US House of Representatives passed a bill penalising universities that boycott Israel, including institutions in the West Bank, in a 237-169 vote. Critics, including rights groups, assert it infringes on free speech. The legislation now requires Senate approval and the President’s signature to become law.

A resident of Nova Scotia has reported losing hundreds of relatives and friends due to devastating flash floods in Rasuwa, Nepal. The situation remains critical as the community mourns the impact of the disaster.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that Sean Parnell is his preferred candidate for Army Secretary, according to senior officials. Parnell, currently the Pentagon spokesperson, previously served in the Army and has been recognised for his military service. The White House is seeking a successor for Dan Driscoll, who recently resigned.

The World Meteorological Organisation forecasts a ‘supersized’ El Niño to peak by February, heightening risks of extreme weather globally, including for the UK.

Five African migrants died while attempting to reach Spain’s Canary Islands, as confirmed by Spanish rescuers. The maritime rescue service saved 44 others from a drifting boat southwest of Gran Canaria, with reports indicating dozens more may have perished during the perilous journey.

What’s going on?

Germany has accused Russia of orchestrating a drone attack on Leipzig airport, marking a significant escalation in tensions. The accusation comes amidst ongoing investigations into similar incidents within Germany. Russian officials have yet to respond to the allegations officially.

The Associated Press reports the headline as “Germany accuses Russia of Leipzig airport drone attack.” In contrast, Bloomberg frames their article with “UK Summons Russian Diplomat Over Failed Leipzig Drone Attack.” The AP focuses on the accusation itself, while Bloomberg emphasises diplomatic responses, showing a differential weight on confrontation and international relations.

Coverage analysed: AP News | Bloomberg.com | Reuters.com | BBC

A man in Welland, Ontario, called 911 in August 2024 while experiencing a heart attack but was unable to speak. Niagara Regional Police did not send officers to his location to assist, leading to concerns about emergency response protocols.