Microsoft’s AI Role in Gaza War Sparks Global Debate
Microsoft confirms providing AI tools to Israeli military during Gaza war, denies lethal use amid calls for transparency from rights groups and employees.
World
Explore major global developments, features, and analyses, with emphasis on Asia’s role and impact in international affairs.
Fortnite Blocked on iPhones in EU, U.S. Amid Apple-Epic Legal Clash
Epic Games’ Fortnite remains unavailable on Apple iPhones in the EU and U.S. amid ongoing legal battles over App Store policies and antitrust concerns.
Putin to Host Historic Russia-Arab Summit Amid Shifting Alliances
Russia’s first summit with Arab League leaders aims to strengthen cooperation and address regional stability, following recent U.S. deals in the Gulf.
Escalation in Gaza: Over 58 Killed in Overnight Strikes as Israel Prepares Ground Offensive
Israeli airstrikes in Gaza kill over 58 overnight as military prepares ground offensive amid escalating humanitarian crisis.
U.S. Tariff Pressures Threaten Small Businesses, Walmart Warns of Price Hikes
U.S. small businesses warn of bankruptcy risks due to tariffs as Walmart signals consumer price hikes, highlighting trade policy strains.
Xi Jinping Extends Greetings to 34th Arab League Summit in Baghdad
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasizes strengthened cooperation with Arab nations in a message to the 34th Arab League Summit in Baghdad.
Russia-Ukraine Talks Yield Prisoner Swap, Path for Future Dialogue
Russia and Ukraine agree to major prisoner exchange during rare face-to-face talks in Istanbul, with plans to continue ceasefire negotiations amid diverging priorities.
Ex-South Korean President Yoon Exits Conservative Party
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol announces departure from conservative party, sparking political realignment debates ahead of elections.
Moody’s Downgrades U.S. Credit Rating Amid Debt Concerns
Moody’s lowers U.S. credit rating citing rising debt and interest costs, with implications for global markets and Asian economic ties.
U.S. Museum Returns Rare Warring States Silk Manuscripts to China
The Smithsonian returns 2,300-year-old Warring States silk manuscripts to China, enhancing efforts to safeguard global cultural heritage.
China-LAC Diplomacy: Saint Lucia Eyes Strategic Partnership
China invites Saint Lucia to deepen collaboration through the China-CELAC Forum, emphasizing equitable partnerships and sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Chinese Social Sciences Platform Sees 34% Surge in Global Use
China’s NCPSSD platform sees 34% growth in international users, boosting global access to Chinese social sciences research and academic journals.
Trump’s Gulf Mega-Deals Face Scrutiny: Economic Boon or Political Theater?
Trump’s Gulf tour yields trillion-dollar pledges, but experts question feasibility and domestic political motives behind the mega-deals.
Russia and Ukraine Agree to Major POW Exchange in Türkiye-Mediated Talks
Russia and Ukraine agree to swap 1,000 prisoners of war each following peace talks in Istanbul, signaling cautious progress toward de-escalation.
Xi Jinping Praises Uruguay’s Mujica, Vows Stronger Ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences to Uruguay over former leader Jose Mujica’s death, pledging to strengthen bilateral relations.
China’s Auto Giants Expand Global Reach with Record-Breaking Car Carrier
China delivers the world’s largest car carrier vessel to boost NEV exports, signaling ambitions to reshape global automotive supply chains.
Russia and Ukraine Hold First Direct Talks in Istanbul Since 2022
Russian and Ukrainian negotiators meet in Istanbul for first direct peace talks since 2022, discussing ceasefire proposals amid lingering skepticism from international observers.
Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Resume in Istanbul After 14-Month Hiatus
High-stakes talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations commence in Istanbul Thursday, marking the first direct dialogue since March 2022. Hopes for de-escalation rise amid international scrutiny.
China Calls for Direct Russia-Ukraine Talks to Resolve Crisis
Chinese Foreign Ministry urges Russia and Ukraine to engage in direct dialogue for a sustainable peace agreement, emphasizing China’s consistent support for negotiated solutions.
Chinese Vice Premier Liu to Attend 78th World Health Assembly, Visit Switzerland and Belarus
Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong will attend the 78th World Health Assembly and lead bilateral cooperation talks in Belarus during a diplomatic tour from May 18–23.