China Opens Applications for $119 Billion Infrastructure Fund, But Impact May Be Delayed
China has begun accepting applications for its 800 billion yuan policy financing tool, but analysts warn the rollout lag may limit its impact on 2026 growth.
International Relations
Iran warns of retaliation as US readies new sanctions; Syria, Israel hold rare talks
Iran threatens a harsh response to looming US sanctions, Syria and Israel hold rare talks, and a Palestinian-American remains unable to move freely in the West Bank.
Kremlin dismisses Ukraine's strikes on Russian retailer as frontline 'irrelevant'
Kremlin says Ukrainian strikes on an Ozon warehouse won't affect the frontline, while accusing the UK of prolonging the war.
Drone Strike on Krasnodar Kills Three Teenagers, Wounds Six
Three teenagers killed and six children wounded in Krasnodar drone attack; Ozon warehouses hit across multiple regions.
Euro zone bond yields ease on oil dip, stay near multi-year highs
Euro zone bond yields slipped as oil prices fell, but remain near multi-year highs ahead of expected U.S. sanctions on Iran.
China Defends Border Talks, Hits Back at US Sanctions and Tech Claims
China's foreign ministry addressed upcoming India border talks, US sanctions on Iran, tech accusations, Hong Kong verdicts, and Indonesia cooperation.
Zelenskiy: Russia Not Ready for Grain Ship Ceasefire
Ukraine's president says Russia is unwilling to agree to a ceasefire on grain ships unless Kyiv stops hitting its energy infrastructure.
China Urges Restraint as Gulf Tensions Reach Critical Point
China's top diplomat urges de-escalation in the Gulf, warning against repeating old conflict patterns.
Pakistan Army Chief in Tehran as US Unveils 'Economic D-Day' Against Iran
Pakistan's army chief visits Tehran to mediate as the US prepares sweeping sanctions on Iran's trade partners, prompting threats to Gulf oil exports.
China's Iranian Oil Imports Slump as US Sanctions Bite
Chinese imports of Iranian crude have fallen sharply since US sanctions were renewed, though Beijing remains the top buyer.
Over 75% of Canadians Want US Trade Talks Ended, Poll Finds
A poll reveals more than three-quarters of Canadians support ending trade talks with the US, signaling strong public pressure on the government.
Kremlin Moves to Shield Grain Exports From Ukrainian Strikes
The Kremlin announced measures to minimize the impact of Ukrainian strikes on Russia's grain export infrastructure.
Iranian rial plunges past 2 million per dollar, tracking sites show
Iran's rial fell to a record low of over 2,000,000 per US dollar on Monday, according to free-market tracking websites.
Uniper fills 70% of contracted gas storage despite market headwinds
Uniper has filled 70% of its contracted gas storage despite challenging market conditions, CEO Michael Lewis confirmed Monday.
Rhine water levels recover after rain, easing shipping bottlenecks
Rain has raised Rhine water levels, letting ships load more freight, but shallow spots remain a challenge for German industry.
Iran warns of consequences for nations aiding US pressure campaign
Iran's foreign ministry spokesman warns of consequences for any complicity with US actions, as new sanctions loom and the rial hits record lows.
Zelenskyy Vows to Hold Line, Urges Allies to Arm Ukraine
Zelenskyy marked Ukraine's Independence Day with a defiant speech, urging allies to provide military aid and reject Russian narratives.
UK PM Burnham Arrives in Kyiv on Independence Day in Show of Solidarity
UK PM Andy Burnham arrived in Kyiv on Ukraine's Independence Day, meeting officials and set to meet Zelenskyy.
Indonesia Grants Malaysia Airspace Access for Cloud Seeding to Fight Haze
Indonesia has allowed Malaysian agencies to enter its airspace for cloud seeding, as both nations step up efforts against transboundary haze.
Iran's rial plunges to record low as US readies 'economic D-Day' sanctions
Iran's rial fell to a record 2.02 million per dollar on Monday as Washington prepares new sanctions, deepening economic strain from war and blockade.