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Last Updated:August 18, 2025, 19:45 IST
From geopolitics to climate, tech to social change, News18 World live blog delivers real-time updates on what is the latest from around the globe
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Stay informed with our World News Live Blog — your real-time window into global events. From major geopolitical developments and scientific breakthroughs to royal family updates and cultural milestones, we bring you fast, factual, and curated updates as they happen. Whether it’s unfolding conflicts, diplomatic shifts, climate alerts, or key moments in international politics, our live blog keeps you ahead of the news curve. Designed for readers who want both speed and substance, this is your go-to source for staying connected with the world — minute by minute, headline by headline.
Myanmar's Military Junta Sets December 28 for New Elections
Myanmar’s military-appointed election commission announced that new elections will commence on December 28, as per a report in AP. The polls, which critics have widely condemned as a sham intended to legitimize the military’s 2021 seizure of power, will be held in phases amid an ongoing civil war across much of the nation. The Union Election Commission stated that a full schedule for the phased elections will be released at a later date.
Centrist Candidate Rodrigo Paz Wins First Round of Bolivian Presidential Election
Centrist candidate Rodrigo Paz unexpectedly won the first round of Bolivia’s presidential election on Sunday, setting the stage for a potential end to nearly two decades of political dominance by the leftist Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party, as per a report in The New York Times. The result, which follows a period of significant political turmoil including the 2019 ousting of then-President Evo Morales, will lead to a runoff election between Paz and the second-place finisher. A victory for Paz in the final round could herald a significant shift in Bolivia’s economic policy toward greater private investment and a reorientation of its foreign relations toward Western nations.
Bindi Irwin's Health Disclosure Highlights Global Endometriosis Challenge
Bindi Irwin’s recent disclosure about feeling ‘ashamed’ of her endometriosis pain has renewed global conversations about the chronic condition, which affects approximately one in ten women worldwide, as per a report in BBC. Her story highlights a common experience among patients, where feelings of shame and dismissal contribute to a significant diagnostic delay that can average seven to ten years. The renewed attention is increasing pressure on healthcare systems to improve diagnostic methods and training, while also potentially driving public and political support for greater research funding into the disease, which impacts an estimated 190 million people globally.
Swatch Apologizes for 'Slanted Eyes' Ad After Uproar in China
Swiss watchmaker Swatch has apologized after facing significant backlash in China for an advertisement that depicted a model pulling the corners of his eyes, a gesture considered a deeply offensive racist caricature of East Asians, according to a report in BBC. The incident triggered an uproar among Chinese consumers and on social media, prompting the company to retract the campaign and issue a formal apology. This event highlights the substantial business risk for international brands operating in China, where perceived cultural insensitivities can quickly lead to widespread consumer boycotts and reputational damage, impacting market position and sales in the crucial region.
US Pauses Visitor Visas For Gazans After Activist Posts
The US government has suspended the issuance of visitor visas for Gazans, a move that blocks a critical pathway for individuals, including children, seeking life-saving medical care unavailable in the region, as per a report in The New York Times. The decision was reportedly triggered by social media posts from far-right activist Laura Loomer, who alleged security risks and inadequate vetting of the evacuees. This policy shift interrupts a humanitarian effort that had previously facilitated medical evacuations for critically ill Gazans and occurs amid heightened national security scrutiny in the US. The pause specifically affects B-2 visas that were being used for these humanitarian medical cases, which had been subject to a multi-layered vetting process by US agencies.
At Least 40 Missing After Boat Capsizes In Northwestern Nigeria
At least 40 people are missing after a boat capsized on a river in the Goronyo area of northwestern Nigeria’s Sokoto state on Sunday, according to a report in AP. Nigeria’s Emergency Management Agency stated that the vessel was transporting passengers to a market when the accident occurred. The agency confirmed that search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with 10 people having been rescued so far. The incident is noted as the latest in a recurring series of deadly boat accidents in the country, highlighting the persistent risks associated with river transport for local commerce and communities.
Wall Street Quiet Ahead Of Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting And Jackson Hole Symposium
US stock futures ticked slightly lower in premarket trading on Monday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of significant diplomatic and economic events, according to a report in AP. Futures for the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq were all down approximately 0.1%. The muted market activity comes before a scheduled meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with other European leaders. Markets had also shown a scant reaction to President Trump’s inconclusive meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin last Friday, with investor focus now shifting to the annual Jackson Hole, Wyoming, meeting of top central bankers later this week for cues on future monetary policy.
Zelenskyy And European Leaders To Meet Trump On Ukraine War
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and a group of prominent European leaders are scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday to discuss ending Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, as per a report in AP. The meeting follows reports that European officials were not included in recent discussions between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin last Friday. This high-stakes diplomatic effort aims to present a united front and safeguard Ukraine’s future amidst ongoing Russian aggression.
Crimea's Strategic Role and Vulnerability in Russia-Ukraine War Explained
Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine continues to be a central issue in the ongoing war, with the peninsula serving as a critical military and logistical hub for Moscow, as per a report in AP. Despite Russia’s control, Ukraine has recently intensified drone and missile strikes on military assets there, including Black Sea Fleet vessels and airfields, forcing parts of the fleet to relocate from its traditional base in Sevastopol. The international community overwhelmingly rejects the annexation, and Ukrainian leadership has consistently stated that the liberation of Crimea is a non-negotiable condition for any future peace settlement, making the peninsula a key flashpoint with significant implications for regional security and international law.
Bolivia Heads To Presidential Runoff As Two Decades Of Left-Wing Dominance Ends
Bolivia’s presidential election is heading to an unprecedented runoff, ending more than two decades of left-wing dominance in the nation, according to a report in AP. Centrist candidate Sen. Rodrigo Paz has emerged as a surprise front-runner, outperforming the main right-wing candidates, though he did not secure enough votes for an outright victory. The outcome was reportedly influenced by supporters of former President Evo Morales who cast null ballots, contributing to a fractured vote that signals public apprehension about a significant shift to the political right.
Militarization Of Space Threatens Global Security And Economic Stability
The weaponization of space is an escalating global concern, with nations demonstrating capabilities to disrupt or destroy critical orbital assets, according to a report in AP. Incidents such as the 2022 cyberattack on the Viasat satellite network, which impacted communications in Ukraine, highlight the vulnerability of both civilian and military infrastructure. Major powers are actively developing anti-satellite (ASAT) technologies, while the proliferation of dual-use satellites complicates international security protocols. These developments present profound risks, threatening not only national security and military operations but also the global economy, which relies heavily on satellites for finance, communication, and navigation. The rapid growth of commercial satellite constellations adds another layer of complexity, creating both new targets and potential for increased network resilience.
Over 40 Missing After Boat Capsizes In Nigeria
A boat accident in Nigeria’s Sokoto region has left more than 40 people missing, with officials confirming the rescue of about 10 individuals, Al Jazeera said in a report. This incident highlights a persistent and tragic issue within Nigeria’s inland waterways, where such capsizes are frequent. These accidents are often attributed to systemic problems including the overloading of vessels, poor boat maintenance, and a general lack of adherence to safety regulations, such as the use of life jackets. The tragedy intensifies pressure on Nigerian maritime authorities to enforce stricter safety standards and has severe economic implications for the affected local communities, where many victims are often primary breadwinners.
South Korea and US Begin Annual Military Drills Amid North Korean Threats
South Korea and the United States have launched their annual large-scale joint military drills, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, to enhance their combined defense posture against North Korean threats, AP says in a report. The 11-day, computer-simulated exercises involve approximately 21,000 soldiers and come at a time of heightened geopolitical strain on the Korean Peninsula. These drills are set against a backdrop of increased North Korean ballistic missile testing, deepening military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, and expanded trilateral security agreements between the US, South Korea, and Japan. North Korea has condemned the exercises as a rehearsal for invasion and has vowed to respond to any perceived provocations, raising concerns about potential military escalations and further freezing diplomatic engagement in the region.
Soho House Nears $1.8 Billion Take-Private Deal Led By MCR Hotels
Membership Collective Group (MCG), the parent company of the global members’ club Soho House, is nearing a $1.8 billion take-private deal led by an investor group from New York-based MCR Hotels, according to a report in the Financial Times. The acquisition follows a period of public market struggles for MCG, which went public in 2021 through a SPAC merger. This move aligns with a broader market trend of undervalued or struggling public companies being taken private to allow for long-term strategic changes and significant capital investment away from the pressure of quarterly public reporting. For MCR Hotels, the deal marks a significant expansion from its traditional hotel portfolio into the exclusive members’ club sector.
Hong Kong Court Hears Final Arguments In Jimmy Lai's Security Trial
A Hong Kong court has commenced hearing final arguments in the high-profile national security trial of Jimmy Lai, founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, as per a report in AP. The trial, which is now nearing its conclusion, sees Lai facing charges of collusion with foreign forces and sedition under the Beijing-imposed Security Law. If convicted on these charges, Lai could receive a potential life sentence.
Wildfires Prompt Record EU Assistance Calls As Spain Battles Blazes
Severe wildfires are raging across Spain amid a persistent heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C, leading to a record number of calls for assistance through the European Union’s Civil Protection Mechanism, as per a report in Financial Times. The Spanish prime minister has warned of “difficult days ahead” as forecasts indicate continued extreme heat and dry conditions. The crisis, exacerbated by widespread drought, is stretching national and European emergency services thin and causing significant economic disruption. Key impacts include threats to public safety leading to evacuations, long-term ecological damage to forests and agriculture, and adverse effects on the vital tourism sector in affected regions.
Bolivia Presidential Election Headed For First-Ever Runoff, Early Results Show
Early results from Bolivia’s presidential election indicate the country is heading for its first-ever runoff vote between the top centrist and right-wing candidates, AP says in a report. The preliminary outcome suggests that no single candidate has secured the necessary majority—either over 50% of the vote or 40% with a 10-point lead—to win outright in the first round. A potential runoff marks a significant political development for Bolivia, a country that has recently experienced significant political instability and has historically decided most presidential contests in the first round.
Putin Agrees To NATO-Style Security Guarantees For Ukraine, US Envoy Says
A US official claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to a US proposal to offer Ukraine security guarantees similar to NATO’s collective defense mandate as part of a potential peace deal, according to a report in AP. The proposal was reportedly conveyed by US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, during discussions at a military base in Alaska. The potential framework for ending the conflict also includes the possibility of territorial concessions, referred to as “land swaps,” being part of the negotiations.
Bolivian Presidential Election Heads To Unprecedented Runoff
Bolivia’s presidential election is set for an unprecedented runoff after Sunday’s vote failed to produce an outright winner, signaling the end of more than two decades of left-wing political dominance, as per a report in AP. Centrist candidate Senator Rodrigo Paz emerged as a surprise front-runner, outperforming right-wing candidates, but did not secure enough votes to avoid a second round. The vote also signaled voters’ trepidation about a major shift to the political right.
Israel Prepares For Displacement Of 1 Million In Gaza City
The Israeli military’s announcement of preparations to forcibly displace 1 million people from Gaza City has caused widespread fear and anxiety among Palestinians, according to a report in The Guardian. This plan is part of a new offensive aimed at seizing control of the territory’s largest urban center, a move that has already raised international alarm. The development comes after recent Israeli attacks in the Palestinian territory on Saturday, which Gaza’s health officials stated killed at least 40 people, including individuals in a tent and others seeking humanitarian aid.
Ukrainian Evacuees Angered By Talk Of Ceding Land For Peace
Displaced Ukrainians living in shelters in eastern Ukraine have expressed anger and indignation over hypothetical discussions about a potential peace deal that would involve trading Ukrainian territory for an end to the war with Russia, The New York Times says in a report. The evacuees, who have fled Russia’s attacks, reacted strongly to the idea of a so-called “Alaska Summit,” a speculative concept rather than a formal event, where land that is internationally recognized as Ukrainian could be given away. This sentiment from those most affected by the conflict underscores the significant domestic opposition to any “land for peace” proposals and aligns with the Ukrainian government’s consistent stance that peace can only be negotiated after a full withdrawal of Russian forces from all occupied territories, including those annexed since 2014.
US Secretary of State Calls for Concessions From Russia and Ukraine for Peace
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Sunday that a peace agreement to end the war in Ukraine requires concessions from both sides, according to a report in The Guardian. In a series of interviews, Rubio, the Trump administration’s top diplomat, asserted that without mutual compromise, the only alternative is surrender, which he believes neither party is willing to do. He also noted that recent talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin had made some progress, although significant disagreements still exist.
Canada's Wildfire Epicentre Shifts From West To Prairie And Atlantic Regions
Canada’s 2024 wildfire season, its second-worst on record, saw a significant geographical shift, with the most severe blazes concentrated in the prairie and Atlantic provinces instead of the traditional western regions, according to a report in The Guardian. This change from the historical epicentre in western provinces upended the country’s emergency response strategies as it grappled with road closures, evacuations, and widespread travel chaos. The shift was attributed to persistent, bone-dry conditions in these new hotspots, highlighting a growing threat that is expected to intensify as the climate warms.
Over 150 Missing In Pakistan Floods As Nationwide Death Toll Surpasses 300
Devastating flash floods in Pakistan have left at least 150 people missing in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, with the nationwide death toll rising to at least 344, France 24 says in a report. The disaster, which has caused widespread damage across multiple provinces including Balochistan and Sindh, has triggered a significant humanitarian crisis, displacing millions who are in urgent need of shelter, food, and medical aid. The economic impact is expected to be severe, with extensive damage to critical infrastructure and agriculture threatening to strain Pakistan’s economy and requiring massive reconstruction efforts. Ongoing rescue operations face major challenges due to the scale of the devastation and damaged infrastructure, highlighting the country’s vulnerability to climate change-related extreme weather events.
Death Toll From Pakistan Floods Rises to 337 as Government Defends Response
Severe flooding in Pakistan from torrential rains and cloudbursts has led to a preliminary death toll of at least 337, as per a report in Al Jazeera. The government is defending its emergency response efforts amid criticism from residents who allege they received inadequate evacuation warnings. The disaster poses significant economic threats, with widespread damage to agriculture and infrastructure expected to exacerbate food insecurity and inflation. Furthermore, the floods have created a public health emergency, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases like cholera and dengue for displaced populations.
Cloudbursts Cause Widespread Damage In India And Pakistan
Cloudbursts, defined as intense rainfall over a concentrated area, are causing significant chaos and damage across mountainous parts of India and Pakistan, as per a report in AP. These extreme weather events, which experts note are being fueled by climate change, are difficult to predict precisely but are common in the region due to the Himalayas forcing moisture-laden monsoon winds upward. The resulting flash floods and landslides have led to casualties, such as those recently reported in Pakistan’s Buner district, and inflict severe strain on disaster management agencies. The recurrent damage to critical infrastructure, including transportation and power grids, disrupts economic activity and diverts development funds toward reconstruction.
Thousands Defy Government Crackdown Threats In Serbian Protests
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced a tough response to anti-government demonstrators after days of riots challenged his authority, as per a report in AP. Despite the threat, thousands of protesters gathered peacefully on Sunday in Belgrade and other Serbian towns, demanding the release of all individuals detained during the recent unrest. The demonstrations, which were reported to have no incidents, are a continuation of public discontent against what critics describe as Vucic’s increasingly autocratic rule, raising concerns about political stability and its potential impact on Serbia’s path toward EU integration.
Israeli Military Unit Accused Of Smearing Gaza Journalists As Hamas Fighters
An Israeli-Palestinian investigation has found that a special unit in Israel’s military was tasked with identifying reporters it could smear as undercover Hamas fighters, according to a report in The Guardian. The investigation by +972 Magazine and its Hebrew-language affiliate, Local Call, claims this “legitimisation cell” was established after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. The unit’s purpose was reportedly to target journalists and to mitigate global outrage over the killing of media personnel in the conflict.
Iraq Begins Excavation of Major Islamic State Mass Grave
Iraqi authorities have initiated the large-scale excavation of a mass grave at the al-Khafsa sinkhole south of Mosul, a notorious execution site from when the Islamic State controlled the area a decade ago, as per a report in AP. The operation involves multiple Iraqi governmental bodies, including the Martyrs’ Foundation and forensic teams, working to uncover and identify victims. This effort is a critical step in documenting the group’s atrocities, providing evidence for legal accountability against perpetrators, and offering closure to the families of the thousands believed to have been killed at the site.
Air Canada Suspends Operations Restart After Union Defies Return To Work Order
Air Canada has suspended its planned restart of operations scheduled for Sunday following the defiance of a return-to-work order by its flight attendant union, as per a report in AP. The move halts the airline’s attempt to resume services, indicating a significant labor dispute that creates immediate uncertainty for travelers and financial repercussions for the carrier.
Qatar Presents Draft Peace Deal To DR Congo And M23 Rebels
Qatari mediators have submitted a draft peace deal to both the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group, with a new round of negotiations set to be hosted in Doha, France 24 says in a report. This diplomatic intervention comes ahead of an August 18 deadline and follows previously stalled regional peace efforts. The conflict, centered in the DRC’s North Kivu province, has led to significant territorial gains by the M23 rebels and displaced over one million people, while also severely straining diplomatic relations between the DRC and neighboring Rwanda, whom UN experts have accused of backing the rebels. Qatar’s role represents a new high-level attempt to broker a lasting resolution where past initiatives have struggled, potentially de-escalating regional tensions and addressing a severe humanitarian crisis.
Hurricane Erin Weakens to Category 3 over Puerto Rico; EU Political Activity in Brussels
Hurricane Erin has weakened to a Category 3 storm after passing over Puerto Rico, while separate political developments are underway in Brussels, Belgium, involving European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, according to a report in AP. Forecasters are currently monitoring the hurricane for an expected northward turn, which will be crucial in determining its future path and potential impact on other Caribbean nations or the US mainland.
Hurricane Erin Weakens To Category 3 But Expands, Threatening New Islands
Hurricane Erin was downgraded to a Category 3 storm on Sunday, though its outer bands are still lashing the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico with heavy rain and strong winds, as per a report in AP. Despite the decrease in maximum wind intensity, the hurricane’s overall size has significantly increased, leading forecasters to issue new tropical storm warnings for the Turks and Caicos Islands and the southeast Bahamas. This expansion is expected to cause disruptions to regional shipping and aviation. While a direct impact on the US East Coast is not anticipated, the storm’s growth could generate dangerous rip currents along the coastline as officials await a critical northward turn.
Air Canada Suspends Flight Restart After Union Defies Back-To-Work Order
Air Canada has suspended its plans to restart flight operations after the union representing its 10,000 flight attendants announced it would defy a government-mandated return-to-work order, AP said in a report. The Canada Industrial Relations Board had issued the back-to-work order following an intervention by the federal government to end the strike, which affects approximately 130,000 travelers daily. The airline, which had planned to resume flights Sunday evening, now states it will not restart operations until Monday evening due to the union’s defiance.
