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Last Updated:August 12, 2025, 01:15 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.
Nigerian Troops Kill Over 100 'Bandits' In Northwest Operation
Nigerian military forces conducted an air and ground operation in Zamfara state on Sunday, killing over 100 individuals described as members of a criminal gang, according to a conflict monitoring report produced for the United Nations cited by France 24. The raid was launched in response to escalating violence in the region, including a recent deadly attack by the same group on Adabka village. The ongoing conflict, driven by organized crime and resource competition, is exacerbating significant humanitarian issues, including worsening malnutrition and contributing to broader regional instability.
Kenyan Refugees Face 60% Food Aid Cut As WFP Rolls Out New System
The World Food Programme (WFP) has reduced food aid by 60% for the most vulnerable refugee groups in Kenya, such as pregnant women and individuals with disabilities, due to a severe global funding crisis, Al Jazeera says in a report. This decision, a consequence of unprecedented funding shortfalls affecting humanitarian operations worldwide, impacts a population in Kenya that has been reliant on assistance for decades, primarily refugees from Somalia and South Sudan in camps like Dadaab and Kakuma. Concurrently, the WFP is introducing a new distribution system, a move that aligns with wider humanitarian trends towards methods such as cash-based transfers or refined targeting models to manage resource scarcity.
Mali Begins Return of Historic Timbuktu Manuscripts After 13 Years
Mali’s military government on Monday began the process of returning historic Timbuktu manuscripts to their home city, more than a decade after they were saved from destruction, AP says in a report. The ancient documents, some dating to the 13th century, were secretly moved from Timbuktu in 2012 when al-Qaida-linked militants captured the city and destroyed other UNESCO World Heritage sites, including mausoleums. The return is a significant cultural event for Mali, symbolizing national resilience, though the region continues to face security challenges from active militant groups.
UN Condemns Israel For Killing Five Journalists In Gaza
The United Nations human rights agency on Monday condemned the targeted killing of five Al Jazeera staff members in Gaza by the Israeli military, according to a report in France 24. The office of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk described the incident, which involved the targeting of a tent, as a ‘grave breach of international humanitarian law’.
UK Faces Investor Lawsuit Over Challenged Cumbria Coal Mine
The UK government is being sued by investors in a proposed Cumbrian coal mine who are using a secretive international legal system to seek compensation after the project was impacted by climate-related regulatory challenges, as per a report in The Guardian. The case, brought by a Singapore-incorporated firm, is the first of its kind against the UK by a fossil fuel company over climate policy. It utilizes the Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) provisions of a 1975 trade agreement between the UK and Singapore, potentially leaving UK taxpayers to fund a substantial compensation payment if the investors’ claim is successful.
Mekong River Megafish Size Has Drastically Declined, Study Reveals
A new study reveals an alarming decline in the size of megafish in the Mekong River, threatening regional biodiversity and livelihoods. The research found that the length of the largest and most endangered freshwater species has decreased by 40% in just seven years. For specific species like the Mekong giant catfish, data over the past 25 years shows a 55% decline in average weight, dropping from 180kg to 80kg. This trend, described as a ‘death spiral’, is attributed to a combination of overfishing, the construction of hydropower dams altering the river’s flow, and the broader impacts of the climate crisis, posing significant risks to food security for communities dependent on the river.
Finland Charges Tanker Crew With Sabotage Of Undersea Cables
Finland has filed charges of aggravated sabotage and aggravated interference with telecommunications against the captain and two senior officers of the oil tanker Eagle S, The Guardian says in a report. The charges stem from an incident where the tanker is suspected of damaging five undersea cables between Finland and Estonia by dragging its anchor. The Cook Islands-registered vessel is believed to be part of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet,’ which consists of ships used to bypass international sanctions.
Peace Feels Distant On Ukraine's Eastern Front Amid Intense Fighting
On the eastern front in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, soldiers are experiencing continuous, intense combat with no relief, making the prospect of peace seem remote, AP says in a report. Troops stationed in dugouts face constant bombardment from Russian artillery and glide bombs, emerging only to operate their M777 howitzers. The sentiment on the front line is that even a formal truce would be unlikely to translate into lasting peace, reinforcing the feeling among soldiers that the war is far from over.
Investors Increase Holdings In Emerging Market Stocks, BofA Survey Shows
Global fund managers have increased their allocation to developing world equities to the highest level in over two years, driven by their perceived low valuations, according to a report in the Financial Times. This shift in investor sentiment, which reverses a multi-year trend of under-allocation, is supported by several factors. These include the prospect of interest rate cuts in developed markets, a weakening US dollar which benefits emerging economies, and recent economic stabilization measures in China. The move signifies a potential ‘risk-on’ sentiment in global markets, as investors seek higher returns and diversification away from potentially overvalued developed market equities.
Barrick Gold Seeks $3.5 Billion From US Lenders For Pakistan Copper Project
Barrick Gold is advancing its plans for the Reko Diq copper-gold project in Pakistan by seeking $3.5 billion in debt financing from a consortium of lenders that includes US entities, the Financial Times says in a report. This financing represents the debt portion for the strategically significant mine, located in the Balochistan province. The project, a 50-50 joint venture between Barrick and the government of Pakistan, is poised to be one of the largest foreign direct investments in the country’s history. Successful financing is critical for its development, which is expected to significantly boost Pakistan’s economy and add a major new source of copper to the global market to meet rising demand from the energy transition.
Trump Urges China To Increase US Soybean Purchases As Trade Truce Deadline Approaches
As a trade truce deadline approaches, US President Donald Trump is urging China to purchase more American soybeans to alleviate economic pressure on US farmers, according to a report in Financial Times. The appeal addresses the continued uncertainty in the US agricultural sector, which has been hit by high retaliatory tariffs from Beijing. These tariffs have made US soybeans less competitive, prompting China, historically the largest export market, to shift its purchases to other suppliers like Brazil. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in US-China trade relations and the resulting shifts in global agricultural commodity flows.
US Tariffs Expose Vulnerabilities In Switzerland's Economic Model
Swiss officials are growing concerned that the nation’s historic economic strengths, such as political neutrality and highly specialized export industries, have become liabilities in the current era of global trade wars, according to a report in Financial Times. The country’s heavy reliance on international trade and complex global supply chains makes its export-oriented economy exceptionally vulnerable to protectionist measures, such as the tariffs implemented by the US under President Donald Trump. These trade policies have exposed the fragility of Switzerland’s economic independence, prompting a re-evaluation of its industrial strategy and its ability to navigate a global environment where major economic powers increasingly use trade as a political lever.
Global Lithium Stocks Surge As CATL Suspends Chinese Mine
Global lithium producer stocks have surged after battery manufacturer CATL suspended operations at one of its Chinese mines, according to a report in Financial Times. The move has fueled speculation within the market that the Chinese government may be intervening to address significant overproduction in the lithium sector, which has caused prices to plummet by over 80% from their 2022 peaks. This action by a dominant market player is seen as a potential step towards rebalancing the global lithium supply and stabilizing prices, which could benefit mining companies worldwide and bring more predictability to the electric vehicle supply chain.
Australia To Recognise Palestinian State In September
Australia plans to formally recognise a Palestinian state in September, marking a significant change in its foreign policy regarding the Middle East, BBC says in a report. This move aligns Australia with a growing international trend and follows the formal recognition of Palestine by Spain, Ireland, and Norway in May 2024. The decision is anticipated to alter Australia’s diplomatic relationships, potentially strengthening ties with Arab and Muslim-majority nations while creating potential friction with key allies like the US and Israel. The policy shift comes after a May 2024 UN General Assembly vote that upgraded Palestine’s status within the organization, reflecting broad international support for their statehood aspirations.
Australia To Recognise Palestinian Statehood; New Zealand May Follow
Australia is set to formally recognise Palestinian statehood, a move announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who described the two-state solution as ‘humanity’s best hope’ for peace, as per a report in Al Jazeera. This decision aligns Australia with several European nations like Spain, Ireland, and Norway that recognised Palestine in 2024, and it follows a UN General Assembly vote that upgraded Palestine’s privileges. The policy shift places Australia at odds with key allies, particularly the US, which maintains that statehood should result from direct negotiations, and Israel, whose government opposes a Palestinian state. New Zealand’s government has indicated it is also considering recognition, which would further amplify diplomatic pressure for a political resolution to the conflict.
Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Dies Following June Assassination Attempt
Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe has died two months after being shot in what was described as a targeted attack during a political rally in June, according to a report in BBC. His death highlights the persistent issue of political violence in Colombia, which continues to affect public officials and challenge the country’s security and democratic stability. The incident occurred despite ongoing peace efforts, and authorities are investigating the assassination to identify the perpetrators and their motives.
Five Al Jazeera Journalists Killed In Israeli Attack In Gaza
Five Al Jazeera journalists, including Anas al-Sharif, have been killed in an Israeli attack in Gaza, Al Jazeera said in a report. This event contributes to a significant number of media professionals killed in the conflict, which has been described by journalist protection groups as one of the deadliest for the press. The incident follows previous casualties among Al Jazeera’s staff in Gaza and repeated calls from international bodies for the protection of journalists in the conflict zone.
Eight Killed In Ecuador Nightclub Shooting Amid State Of Emergency
A shooting at a nightclub in Ecuador’s Guayas province has left eight people dead, highlighting the persistent insecurity in regions under a state of emergency, as per a report in BBC. The incident occurs despite President Daniel Noboa’s “internal armed conflict” declaration from January 2024, which designated criminal gangs as terrorist organizations and authorized military intervention. This attack underscores the challenges facing the government’s security strategy in a province that is a critical hub for drug trafficking. The ongoing violence continues to negatively impact public safety, economic activity, and tourism in the country.
Ford Reveals New Low-Cost EV Platform And Manufacturing Process
Ford has unveiled a new strategy to combat significant financial losses in its electric vehicle division by developing a low-cost, scalable EV platform and a new manufacturing process, The Verge says in a report. The initiative, born from a three-year “skunkworks” project, aims to produce a new family of affordable EVs, beginning with a $30,000 midsized pickup truck in 2027. The plan involves a simplified “assembly tree” manufacturing method, which uses 20% fewer parts and reduces assembly time, and the adoption of more affordable and durable Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. This strategic shift is a response to Ford’s projected $5.5 billion loss on EVs this year, slowing market demand, and political challenges, including the Trump administration’s plan to roll back EV tax credits.
China Investigates Nvidia's Export-Compliant H20 AI Chips
China has initiated a review of Nvidia’s H20 artificial intelligence chips, which were developed specifically to adhere to US export restrictions for the Chinese market, as per a report in Financial Times. This scrutiny introduces significant challenges for Nvidia, which had created the ‘watered-down’ H20 chip to maintain its presence in China after Washington blocked the sale of its more advanced processors in past years. The move is viewed within the context of Beijing’s broader push for technological self-sufficiency and could benefit domestic competitors. This development underscores the escalating tech rivalry between the US and China, placing global semiconductor firms in a difficult position between conflicting regulatory environments.
Magnitude 6.1 Earthquake In Western Turkiye Kills One Person
A magnitude 6.1 earthquake has struck western Turkiye, resulting in at least one fatality, Al Jazeera said in a report. Turkiye’s interior minister confirmed that an 81-year-old person died after being rescued from rubble by emergency teams. The quake’s epicenter was located in the Duzce province, a region situated on major active fault lines and historically prone to seismic activity.
Turkey Detains Constructor After Fatal Earthquake Building Collapse
Turkish authorities have detained the owner and constructor of a residential building that collapsed during a recent earthquake in the town of Sindirgi, killing one resident and injuring 29 others, according to a report in AP. The detention is part of an ongoing investigation into potential negligence. The arrests are consistent with a government crackdown on building code violations that was intensified after the devastating February 2023 earthquakes exposed widespread construction deficiencies.
US Judge Denies Request To Unseal Records In Ghislaine Maxwell Case
A US judge has denied a request to unseal records in a case involving Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of the late Jeffrey Epstein, Al Jazeera says in a report. The documents in question are from a past civil defamation lawsuit filed against Maxwell and are separate from her 2021 criminal conviction records. The decision means that information and the identities of individuals contained within these specific sealed files will remain confidential, despite what the report described as the government’s hope that their release would help quell public outcry surrounding the full extent of Epstein’s network.
Germany To Host Virtual Summit With Trump, Zelenskyy, And NATO Ahead Of Putin Meeting
Germany’s chancellor has initiated a high-level virtual meeting with US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and leaders of NATO and the European Union, as per a report in AP. The purpose of the summit is to establish a unified Western position and align on key strategies concerning European security and the war in Ukraine. This diplomatic effort is being held in advance of a potential future meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to ensure allied concerns and strategic interests are clearly communicated beforehand.
Macrons Hired Investigators To Research US Influencer Candace Owens
French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron hired private investigators to research US podcaster Candace Owens, according to a report in the Financial Times. The move came after Owens amplified a long-debunked conspiracy theory on her platform alleging that Brigitte Macron was born male. The investigation reportedly sought to uncover Owens’ connections with right-wing figures in both Europe and the US. This action signifies a proactive strategy by the French presidency to combat what it views as foreign-sourced disinformation and highlights the increasing legal scrutiny faced by international online influencers for spreading defamatory content.
Germany Calls For Pre-Summit Talks As Europe Warns Against Ukraine Land Swaps
Germany is organizing a virtual meeting with US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, and leaders from NATO and the EU to align on strategy before an upcoming summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to a report in AP. This development comes as European nations publicly assert that the US-Russia summit cannot be a venue to decide on potential land swaps concerning Ukraine’s sovereign territory.
Tropical Storm Erin Forms In The Eastern Atlantic Ocean
Tropical Storm Erin has formed in the eastern tropical Atlantic Ocean, just to the west of the Cabo Verde Islands, AP says in a report. This development is significant as storms originating in this region, often called ‘Cape Verde’ type systems, have the potential to become powerful, long-track hurricanes as they move westward across warm ocean waters. The storm’s formation necessitates immediate monitoring and potential adjustments for maritime and aviation industries operating in the eastern Atlantic to ensure safety. Furthermore, its long potential track requires early monitoring by meteorological agencies and residents in the Caribbean and along the US East Coast for any future impacts.
Moomins' 80th Anniversary Sparks Global Merchandise And Tourism Boost
Global celebrations are underway in 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of Finland’s Moomins, a cultural export that continues to have significant economic impact, as per a report in AP. The anniversary, commemorating the 1945 publication of the first book by author Tove Jansson, is expected to substantially boost the Moomin brand through increased sales of merchandise, new licensing opportunities, and potential new media adaptations. These events also enhance Finland’s cultural diplomacy and are a key driver for tourism, particularly to sites like the Moomin Museum in Tampere, reinforcing the nation’s creative brand on the world stage.
Map Details Russian-Occupied Ukrainian Lands and Ukrainian Incursion Into Kursk
A static map shows the current state of territorial control in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to a report in AP. The map, sourced from the Institute for the Study of War and current as of August 11, 2025, illustrates Russia’s occupation of Crimea and its partial occupation of four other Ukrainian regions. It also highlights a recent development by depicting a small portion of Russia’s Kursk region that is currently held by Ukrainian forces. The advisory notes that the map is a static image and will not be updated to reflect future changes on the front line.
Melting Antarctic Glacier Reveals Remains Of Explorer Lost In 1959
The recent discovery of the remains of Dennis Bell, a British explorer lost in Antarctica in 1959, highlights the accelerating impact of climate change on the polar regions, The Guardian says in a report. Bell, who worked for the predecessor to the British Antarctic Survey, was found by a Polish expedition after a glacier receded, revealing his body 66 years after he fell into a crevasse. This event serves as a stark illustration of the environmental shifts occurring in Antarctica, which have significant long-term economic implications, including affecting global climate models, future maritime routes, and the stability of global sea levels. The uncovering of historical artifacts and remains from melting ice is a growing trend, providing new data for scientists but also underscoring the profound and irreversible changes to the global environment.
Australia Endorses Palestinian Statehood As Israeli Strikes In Gaza Kill Journalists And Civilians
Australia has announced its diplomatic support for Palestinian statehood, a significant policy shift occurring as Israeli military operations intensify in Gaza, according to a report in AP. On Monday, Israeli ground and air strikes targeted northern and southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 34 people, including civilians seeking aid and sheltering in tents. In a separate incident, a strike killed multiple Al Jazeera journalists. These events unfold as Israeli troops are reportedly preparing for a broader military campaign in the besieged territory.
Tropical Storm Erin Forms In Atlantic As Hurricane Henriette Strengthens In Pacific
Tropical Storm Erin formed on Monday in the eastern Atlantic near the Cabo Verde Islands, while Hurricane Henriette strengthened in the Pacific Ocean, though it remains far from Hawaii, AP said in a report. The Hurricane Center in Miami stated that no coastal watches or warnings are in effect for either storm. Erin is located about 280 miles west-northwest of the Cabo Verde Islands with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph. The formation of these storms, while not an immediate land threat, necessitates monitoring by maritime and aviation industries for potential route adjustments to avoid hazardous conditions.
Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Dies Two Months After Assassination Attempt
Colombian Senator and presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe died on Monday in a Bogota hospital, as per a report in AP. His death follows a shooting in June where he was shot three times during a campaign speech and had since remained in an intensive care unit. The assassination has heightened security concerns for political figures in Colombia and raised questions about the state’s ability to prevent political violence.
Spain Replaces Women's Team Coach Montse Tomé With Sonia Bermúdez
Spain’s soccer federation announced it will not renew the contract of women’s national team coach Montse Tomé, appointing former player Sonia Bermúdez as her replacement, AP says in a report. The decision, which also names former player Iraia Iturregi as the team’s second coach, comes despite recent on-field success. Tomé, who was appointed in September 2023 in the wake of the Luis Rubiales scandal, led the team to victory in the inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations League in February 2024.
Greece To Use Ankle Monitors For Migrants On Deportation List
The Greek government has announced that migrants with rejected asylum claims will be required to wear ankle monitors to facilitate deportations, AP says in a report. Migration Minister Thanos Plevris stated the measure is planned for implementation before the end of the year. The new policy is part of broader reforms that will also criminalize noncompliance with deportation orders, with Plevris noting that electronic monitoring will make it clear that options for these individuals have narrowed.
Heat Wave and Wildfires Scorch Multiple European Nations
A significant heat wave is gripping parts of Europe, raising the threat of wildfires and impacting public safety and key economic sectors, AP says in a report. In southern France, temperatures have soared to 43°C (109.4°F), increasing the danger of fires in major wine-producing regions like Bordeaux. Concurrently, Bulgaria is battling blazes along its southern border under maximum fire danger alerts, Hungary has recorded record-breaking temperatures, and wildfires have forced evacuations in northwestern Turkey. These events are part of a broader regional crisis, with other Mediterranean nations also experiencing extreme heat, placing severe strain on emergency services and agricultural industries across the continent.
Ukrainian Drone Strike Kills One in Russia Ahead of US-Russia Summit
A Ukrainian drone attack killed one person and wounded two others in Russia’s Nizhny Novgorod region, located approximately 260 miles east of Moscow, AP said in a report. Nizhny Novgorod’s Governor, Gleb Nikitin, stated that drones had targeted two “industrial zones,” resulting in the casualties. The strike occurs just days before a scheduled summit on Friday between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, where Putin is reportedly seeking a peace agreement to solidify Russia’s territorial gains from the conflict.
Bolivia's Economic Crisis Deepens Amidst Staple Goods Shrinkflation
Bolivia is facing a deepening economic crisis marked by significant ‘shrinkflation’ in staple goods, with producers reducing product sizes to offset rising costs while adhering to government-fixed prices, according to a report in AP. This situation, highlighted by bakers selling bread loaves at nearly half their former weight for the same price, stems from a collapsing subsidy system, a severe shortage of US dollars, and declining government revenue from natural gas exports. The country’s central bank has seen a sharp depletion of its international reserves, exacerbating fiscal challenges and placing immense pressure on businesses and citizens ahead of future elections.
Firefighters Battle Large Brush Fire On Landmark Hill In Edinburgh
Firefighters in Scotland worked overnight and into Monday to control a large brush fire on Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano and prominent landmark overlooking Edinburgh, AP says in a report. The fire, which involved burning gorse bushes, sent large plumes of smoke into the sky. The incident occurred as the city commenced its annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest performance arts festival, creating a concerning backdrop for the major international event.
Al Jazeera Correspondent Anas Al-Sharif Killed In Israeli Airstrike In Gaza
An Israeli airstrike in Gaza on Sunday killed Al Jazeera correspondent Anas al-Sharif and several colleagues, as per a report in AP. Both the Israeli military and hospital officials in Gaza City confirmed the deaths. Al Jazeera has condemned the strike, calling it a targeted ‘assassination,’ and press freedom advocates, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, noted the killing followed what they described as an Israeli ‘smear campaign’ against the journalist.
