Spain’s Sanchez says Russia, Israel spread disinformation on Ceuta crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez accused Russia and Israel of spreading disinformation about the Ceuta migrant crisis. Sanchez said, “After July 30 and 31, rumours and disinformation spread on social networks linked to Russia and Israel.” He noted these countries used the situation to attack Spain over its foreign policy.

Morocco not to blame for Ceuta border breach, says Spanish PM

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said there is no evidence that Morocco caused the border breach in Ceuta. He told Cadena Ser radio on Monday, “There’s no information from any intelligence agency that raises doubts over the involvement of Moroccan authorities.” Criminal gangs used fake news to trigger the crisis.

Syria is choosing diplomacy with Israel, but can its approach last?

Syria has chosen diplomatic engagement with Israel since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024. Despite repeated Israeli attacks, President Ahmed al-Sharaa seeks peace with all neighbours. Rob Geist Pinfold said, "The government has to walk a tightrope as ever," as Syria tries to focus on nation building.

Meloni's big reforms flounder but security bills flourish in Italy

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government will become Italy’s longest-serving administration on September 4. While her flagship constitutional and premiership reforms stalled, the coalition found success with security bills. The government tightened immigration rules and introduced tougher penalties for public-order offences, though many other legislative efforts faced significant legal or political hurdles.

UN committee says countries must consider reparations for slave trade

A U.N. committee said on Monday that countries must consider reparations for the transatlantic slave trade. The guidance aims to address the lasting legacy of racial discrimination. Expert Pela Boker-Wilson said, "We are calling on state parties to take concrete and meaningful action." Many nations now face these new obligations.

Kazakhstan's president appoints top adviser as vice president

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Monday appointed Erlan Karin as vice president. This new office was created under a constitution adopted earlier this year. Karin, a longtime adviser, is now first in line to succeed Tokayev. Parliament also approved the reappointment of Olzhas Bektenov as the country's prime minister today.

By Fighting Union Pay Bonus, Mamdani Wins Rare Praise From Conservatives

Mayor Zohran Mamdani sued the City Council over its move to give $10,000 bonuses to teachers' aides outside the normal collective bargaining process. The mayor said doing so would set "a dangerous precedent." This fight got him rare praise from conservatives, even as he faces a battle with the union.

Do D.E.I. Bike Paths Exist? The Trump Administration Says Yes.

The Trump administration is revoking federal grants for bike lanes it labels as D.E.I. projects. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said these lanes cause "longer travel times and wasted fuel." While officials mock cycling, a 2025 YouGov poll showed 76 percent of Americans support bike lanes in their local communities today.

Iran hostilities flare after US strike in strait of Hormuz; supertanker hits mines and catches fire - Middle East crisis live

Hostilities between the US and Iran flared on Monday after American strikes on Larak Island. A supertanker caught fire in the strait of Hormuz after hitting two naval mines. The IRGC said, “compliance with its regulations for passage through the strait was mandatory,” as tensions rose across the Middle East.

‘Breakthrough’ as Turkmenistan starts fixing ‘mindboggling’ methane mega-leaks

Turkmenistan started plugging mega-leaks of methane from its ageing oil and gas facilities, according to recent UN data. The country stopped eight leaks by repairing corroded pipes and faulty wells. Meghan Demeter said, “These mitigation cases are a proof point of what can be done with satellite data.”

Xi, Modi and Putin set to meet for SCO summit: What’s on the agenda?

Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are set to meet in Bishkek for the SCO summit starting on Monday. Leaders will discuss trade and security as the group marks 25 years. The event aims to boost cooperation among many Global South nations.

Russia, China leaders to meet at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit

Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping will gather in Kyrgyzstan on Monday for the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. Many leaders will attend the meeting to discuss economic issues and global ties. Putin said, “Russia-China ties ‘stabilising’ force in world.” The bloc represents 40 percent of the world’s population.