Russia launched its largest-ever aerial assault on Ukraine, striking Kyiv and damaging a UNESCO-listed monastery, while Ukraine countered with deep drone strikes on the Moscow oil refinery and other Russian energy infrastructure. At the G7 summit, Zelensky proposed a meeting with Putin, Trump signaled a new focus on the Ukraine war, and the UK announced fresh sanctions. A Russian state-backed network was confirmed behind arson attacks on UK PM Starmer's properties, and Armenia announced joint military drills with NATO countries.

The US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding is moving toward a formal signing in Switzerland on Friday, with the Strait of Hormuz reopening and Iranian vessels crossing the former blockade line, though shipping industry confidence remains low and US intelligence agencies doubt Iran's nuclear commitments. Israel has explicitly rejected the deal, with Netanyahu declaring Israel will maintain security zones in Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria, while active clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces continue in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire framework. A maritime attack off Yemen adds to regional security concerns.

The humanitarian crisis in the Strait of Hormuz deepens as Indian sailors die amid the US blockade, while China vows to protect its vessels in the waterway. SIPRI confirms India struck Pakistani nuclear-related bases during Operation Sindoor, and the EU verifies reports of Chinese military training for Russian troops in Ukraine. Domestically, India sees political turmoil in West Bengal and Maharashtra, while Taiwan's president pushes for increased defense spending despite parliamentary cuts.

A US B-52H Stratofortress crashed at Edwards Air Force Base in California, killing all eight crew members, as President Trump arrived at the G7 summit amid skepticism over his announced Iran deal. Domestically, California Governor Newsom faces allegations of misconduct and DOJ investigation, while surveys show declining faith in US immigration and rising inflation fears. Regionally, the US and Venezuela killed the Tren de Aragua leader, and Canada signaled a strategic pivot toward Europe.

In Sudan, drone strikes have killed over 1,000 civilians in 2026, with UN calls for regulation amid worsening humanitarian crises. Nigeria faces insurgent attacks in Kebbi and Katsina states, alongside a court order to deregister a major opposition party ahead of elections. Ethiopia struggles with a deadly bus crash and sectarian violence targeting Christians, while Somalia continues anti-Al-Shabaab operations. South Africa confronts xenophobic protests and the loss of cultural icon Abdullah Ibrahim.