Russia’s lawmakers have passed a law authorising the Kremlin to deploy troops abroad to “protect Russian citizens,” effectively granting President Vladimir Putin the power to invade foreign countries. The legislation aims to address perceived injustices faced by Russian citizens abroad, exacerbating concerns over Russia’s military intentions.

Denmark’s former Queen Margrethe, who abdicated in 2024, has been admitted to Rigshospitalet due to chest pain described as angina. The 86-year-old monarch will remain hospitalised over the weekend for observation. Her health has been a concern following major surgery last year, but she is reportedly in good spirits.

Moscow has initiated a significant daytime aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying hundreds of drones, resulting in at least three fatalities and 12 injuries. Ukrainian military intelligence warns of a sustained attack on critical infrastructure, with drones detected from various directions, including Belarus.

Andriy Yermak, former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appeared in court as prosecutors seek his arrest over allegations of a $10.5 million money-laundering scheme linked to a luxury housing project. Yermak denied the charges and a hearing is set to continue on Wednesday.

The parish church of St Andrew in Würzburg, Germany, will be repurposed as a bouldering centre, reflecting a growing trend to utilise underused church buildings. Set to open in summer 2027, the project highlights the challenges facing congregations amidst declining membership and rising maintenance costs.

Niger has suspended nine French media outlets, including France 24 and AFP, citing threats to public order and national unity. The immediate ban affects all broadcasting platforms and comes ahead of a significant France-Africa summit, with anti-French sentiment escalating amid ongoing military rule in the region.