Geopolitical Developments and Conflicts

Ukraine Peace Talks: Momentum is building around a potential US-backed peace plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, though it has generated controversy and concern among some Ukrainian officials who worry it might force them to make concessions to Russia. US envoys are reportedly being sent to both Kyiv and Moscow.

Military Coup in Guinea-Bissau: The military has seized power in Guinea-Bissau, announcing they have deposed the president and suspended the electoral process.

Middle East Tensions: The Israel-Gaza conflict remains critical, with reports of hundreds of Israeli soldiers conducting a "broad counter-terrorism operation" in a Palestinian town in the West Bank.

China-Taiwan Tensions: Taiwan announced a plan to spend an extra $40 billion on defense, including a new air defense system and US-made weapons, to counter what it perceives as intensifying threats from China.

Ethiopian Volcano Eruption: A volcano in Ethiopia has erupted for the first time in 12,000 years, causing flight cancellations due to ash.