President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reaffirmed Ukraine’s demand for full EU membership, countering German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal for “associate membership” during accession talks. Zelenskyy emphasised Ukraine’s vital role in defending Europe and urged swift progress in its membership negotiations.

President Trump indicated that the US and Iran are progressing towards an agreement, which could include measures on the Strait of Hormuz and unfreezing of Iranian assets. He plans discussions with Gulf leaders about the negotiations, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned potential updates later today.

Mayor Carlos Bruce of Surco faces scrutiny after a video surfaces showing him Taser an adviser, Arturo Bobbio, during a private exercise.

The Terra dei Fuochi, a region in southern Italy, faces severe environmental damage due to illegal waste disposal practices. The area has been significantly compromised by the burying and burning of refuse, raising urgent concerns about public health and ecological impact.

Republican Senator Ted Cruz described a recent two-hour meeting with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche regarding the Justice Department’s new “anti-weaponization fund” as one of the most contentious he has experienced. Cruz noted significant opposition among Senate Republicans, with many expressing dissatisfaction and concerns over the fund’s implications.

A motorist was shot by an armed officer from Greater Manchester Police after allegedly driving directly at police during a traffic stop on Bury New Road in Whitefield. The driver, reported to have a non-life threatening injury, was taken to hospital. An investigation is ongoing.

Ninety confirmed dead following a gas explosion at the Liushenyu coal mine in Shanxi province, with ongoing rescue efforts for trapped workers.

Mohamed Bakkali, involved in the November 2015 Paris attacks, has received approval for temporary prison leaves, igniting backlash in Belgium and France. Sentenced to 30 years in France and another 25 in Belgium, his potential parole raises concerns among victims’ advocates and lawmakers regarding justice.

EU UPDATE

This morning, key developments in Europe highlight ongoing economic discussions and fresh initiatives within the European Union.
Focus remains on trade, migration, and geopolitical challenges.

MALDIVES DIVING TRAGEDY
Italian divers died after taking a wrong turn while underwater this morning.
Authorities have seized their equipment amid ongoing investigations into the incident.