U.S. and Iran Resume Talks After 2025 Bombing: A ‘Good Start’
U.S. and Iran hold indirect talks mediated by Oman, marking their first dialogue since the June 2025 bombing. Iran’s foreign minister calls it a “good start.”
World
Explore major global developments, features, and analyses, with emphasis on Asia’s role and impact in international affairs.
US-Russia Nuclear Treaty Expires: Global Security at a Crossroads
The expiration of the last US-Russia nuclear arms treaty sparks global concerns. Russia offers talks, while the US seeks China’s inclusion in a new deal.
Milan Cortina 2026 Kicks Off with Historic Four-Site Opening Ceremony
The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics opened with a groundbreaking four-site ceremony celebrating Italian culture and global unity, attended by Chinese State Councilor Shen Yiqin.
AU Condemns Kisangani Drone Attack, Warns of Regional Instability
The African Union condemns a drone strike on Kisangani airport by AFC/M23, warning of threats to civilians and regional stability, urging adherence to the Doha Agreement.
Global Call to End FGM Intensifies on 2026 Zero Tolerance Day
As the world observes Zero Tolerance Day for FGM, advocates highlight progress and challenges in eradicating the harmful practice, emphasizing education and policy reforms.
Iran and U.S. Agree to Continue Negotiations Following Muscat Talks
Iran and the U.S. agree to continue diplomatic negotiations after initial Muscat talks, signaling potential progress in bilateral relations during early 2026.
Severe Drought Threatens Kenyan Children as Livelihoods Collapse
Severe drought in Kenya’s Mandera County leaves millions food insecure, with children at risk of malnutrition as livestock and water sources vanish. Humanitarian aid urgently needed.
India’s Manufacturing Ambition Tied to Chinese Partnership, Analysts Say
Indian analysts highlight China’s critical role in India’s manufacturing ambitions and global supply chain integration, as China’s own industrial sector evolves toward high-value production.
Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Kick Off with Global Tech Showcase
As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics commence, IOC President Kirsty Coventry highlights the fusion of sports and technology, with Chinese firms like TCL leading global partnerships.
Deadly Mosque Blast Rocks Islamabad, 12 Killed
A mosque explosion in Islamabad has left 12 dead and over 80 injured, with no group claiming responsibility. Authorities have declared a state of emergency.
Storm Leonardo Forces Mass Evacuations in Southern Spain
Thousands evacuated in southern Spain as Storm Leonardo brings torrential rains, with entire towns like Grazalema emptied amid severe flooding.
US Job Cuts Hit 17-Year High in January 2026, Signaling Economic Shifts
US employers announced over 108,000 job cuts in January 2026, the highest for the month since 2009, signaling economic uncertainty and sectoral shifts.
Russia and Ukraine Conduct Major Prisoner Swap via UAE Mediation
Russia and Ukraine exchanged 314 prisoners in a UAE-mediated deal, the first such swap since September 2025. Both nations confirm returns of military personnel and civilians.
U.S. and Iran Resume Diplomatic Talks in Muscat Amid Regional Tensions
U.S. and Iranian delegations begin negotiations in Muscat, facilitated by Oman, aiming to address regional security challenges and economic concerns in 2026.
ASEAN Celebrates Chinese New Year for First Time in Jakarta
ASEAN marks its first Chinese New Year celebration in Jakarta, highlighting cultural ties and 35 years of China-ASEAN dialogue partnership.
Russia Urges ‘Neutral, Benign’ Ukraine for Long-Term Stability
Russian FM Lavrov emphasizes Ukraine’s need for neutrality and respect for minority rights as key to lasting peace, amid stalled U.S.-mediated talks.
Canada, France Open Greenland Consulates in Signal Against Trump’s Arctic Ambitions
Canada and France open consulates in Greenland, countering Trump’s Arctic ambitions and reinforcing global resistance to unilateral U.S. strategies in the region.
Iran-U.S. Nuclear Talks in Oman: Key Issues at Stake
As Iran and the U.S. prepare for high-stakes nuclear talks in Muscat, tensions over military posturing and unresolved disputes threaten regional stability.
US Military Strikes Drug-Smuggling Vessel in Pacific, Two Killed
Two killed as US military targets alleged drug-smuggling boat in eastern Pacific, highlighting ongoing regional security challenges and trade route protections.
New York City Joins WHO Health Network Amid U.S. Withdrawal
NYC becomes first U.S. city to join WHO’s GOARN following federal withdrawal, enhancing global health collaboration amid criticism.