Ukrainian drone attacks hit multiple Russian targets, including refinery

Ukraine's drones hit energy and industrial sites across Russia, including a refinery in Saratov. Governors reported strikes in several regions, with some civilian injuries. Ukraine confirmed hitting the Saratov oil refinery but denied hitting a nuclear plant. President Zelenskyy said Ukraine needs "missiles for air defence systems" to fight back.

Nigeria's Obi to Run for President in 2027, Splitting Opposition

Peter Obi is running for president in Nigeria's January elections again, which means the opposition will be split. He was second in the last vote, narrowly lost to Tinubu. This move ensures the opposition won't unite against the current leader, making it harder to challenge him.

Why the favorite for California governor has divided his Biden-era colleagues

Xavier Becerra, Biden's health secretary, is now the frontrunner for California governor. He was a surprise pick for the cabinet and is now nearing another unlikely achievement. Becerra said, "On first blush, people probably were looking elsewhere," acknowledging his rise. His rivals faded due to scandals, making him a stable choice.

The rise of Janeese Lewis George, who could be D.C.'s first democratic socialist mayor

Janeese Lewis George, a D.C. Council member, is running to be the city's first democratic socialist mayor. She's focused on workers' and tenants' rights, backed by unions. Her campaign promises affordable child care and social housing. Some worry about her views on public safety and taxes, but supporters see her as a change agent.

In D.C. mayor's race, Kenyan R. McDuffie is the not-so-moderate moderate

Kenyan R. McDuffie, a D.C. mayoral candidate, wants to make the city more affordable and accountable. He says, "You get it by living in this city." McDuffie, who used to deliver mail, aims for "bold but also achievable" plans, unlike his opponent's "empty promises." He hopes his practical approach will win voters.

Shangri-La Dialogue Defense Summit Day Two

South Korea's defense minister was cautious about more security ties with Japan at the Shangri-La Dialogue. He said bilateral ties are "one of the most active and productive tracks in recent years," but didn't commit to further expansion. This shows a careful approach to regional security cooperation.

The great Indo-Pacific hedge - deeper defence ties as US doubts grow and China ascends

Countries in the Indo-Pacific are boosting their own defence, worried about China's rise and if the US is still focused on them. At a defence meeting, US officials urged partners to do more. Philippines' Defence Secretary said, "we are seeing probably an increase of partnership across the board," as nations deepen ties with each other.

China patrols Scarborough Shoal after Philippines warns of threat

China's military and coast guard patrolled near Scarborough Shoal on Sunday. This happened after the Philippines warned it still faces a "severe threat" from China. Philippine and U.S. forces just finished a joint maritime exercise in the same waters. The patrols are China's way to counter "rights violations and provocative acts."

Iran war day 93: Trump won't 'rush' deal; Israel expands Lebanon invasion

Trump said he is in "no hurry" for a deal with Iran, as Israel pushes deeper into Lebanon. Iran warned of a strong response to any aggression and claimed to shoot down a US drone. Meanwhile, the US military disabled a ship heading towards an Iranian port.

NZ Lacks Billions 'Under the Couch' for Greater Defense Spending

New Zealand can't find billions for defense, Finance Minister Nicola Willis said. The US wants more spending, but the country lacks the money. Willis explained, "we don't have the fiscal headroom." This means New Zealand can't easily afford to boost its military budget to meet expectations.

Malaysia Says Axed Norway Missile Deal Erodes Global Trust

Malaysia is really unhappy with Norway cancelling a weapons deal. They feel "stronger powers" are ignoring global rules when it suits them. This move, they say, "erodes global trust" and sets a bad example for international agreements. It's a big deal for how countries keep their promises.

In Taiwan, 'Mainland Spouses' From China Become a Focus of Infiltration Fears

Taiwan is worried about Chinese infiltration, especially through "mainland spouses." One woman, Hsu Chun-ying, is jailed, accused of being a Chinese Communist Party agent. Officials say "a small minority of mainland spouses who may come here with specific assignments." This has made many Chinese migrants feel unfairly targeted.