Geopolitical Conflicts & Peace Talks

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: There's been a notable focus on a potential peace deal, with reports of a US-backed, revised 19-point plan that Ukraine has reportedly agreed to. Negotiations are described as a "living paper," meaning details are still being finalized. Russia's President Putin has indicated that a US peace proposal could form a basis for ending the war, but insists Ukraine would have to surrender territory.

Israel-Hamas War: The conflict and its humanitarian fallout remain a major global focus. The need for a stable political future in Gaza and the reconstruction costs (estimated at tens of billions by the UN) are significant ongoing concerns. There was a recent ceasefire and prisoner/hostage exchange, with the situation remaining extremely fragile.

Middle East Tensions: Regional instability persists, with concerns about conflicts spilling over. Drone attacks on a gas field in Iraq and a US-brokered sea border agreement between Lebanon and Cyprus are recent developments.