A massive wave of Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, has killed at least 30 people and injured more than 150, making it one of the deadliest attacks on the city this year. Rescue teams continued searching through the rubble of collapsed residential buildings for survivors, while authorities declared a day of mourning. Ukrainian officials condemned the assault as a deliberate attack on civilians and renewed calls for stronger international support. The strikes caused widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure, underscoring the continuing intensity of the Russia-Ukraine war and its devastating humanitarian impact. (PC: AFP)

The United States and China are entering a new phase of their AI rivalry, with semiconductor restrictions, alleged technology theft, espionage concerns and fierce competition over advanced AI models driving geopolitical tensions. China's latest AI model, GLM-5.2, has drawn praise from Silicon Valley, highlighting how rapidly the technology gap is narrowing despite US export controls on advanced chips. Experts say Washington still leads in cutting-edge AI hardware and research, while Beijing is accelerating domestic innovation and reducing reliance on foreign technology. The escalating contest is increasingly shaping global trade, national security and the future balance of technological power. (PC: HT)

Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash after VAR overturned Joško Gvardiol's 103rd-minute equaliser. Following a lengthy review using semi-automated offside technology and the ball's embedded sensor, officials ruled that a Croatian player in an offside position had interfered with play during the build-up, leading to the goal being disallowed. Cristiano Ronaldo had earlier equalised from the penalty spot before Gonçalo Ramos scored the winner. The controversial decision sparked protests from Croatia's players and fans, ending their World Cup campaign in heartbreaking fashion. (PC: Reuters)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit New Zealand on July 10, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in more than 40 years. The landmark trip is expected to strengthen India–New Zealand ties through discussions on trade, investment, education, technology, defence cooperation and regional security. Modi is also expected to engage with the Indian diaspora and explore ways to expand collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit reflects both nations' commitment to deepening strategic and economic relations amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges in the Asia-Pacific. (PC: X)

India and Japan have agreed to strengthen their energy partnership as escalating tensions in West Asia raise concerns over global oil and gas supplies. During high-level talks, both countries pledged closer cooperation on energy security, clean energy technologies, strategic reserves and resilient supply chains. The discussions focused on reducing vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions while expanding collaboration in renewable energy, hydrogen and advanced technologies. With both nations heavily dependent on imported energy, the renewed partnership aims to ensure stable supplies, diversify energy sources and reinforce their broader strategic relationship in the face of an increasingly uncertain global energy landscape. (PC: X)

Spain produced a commanding performance to defeat Austria 3–0 in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, securing a place in the Round of 16. The Spanish side controlled possession, created numerous chances and showcased clinical finishing to outclass their opponents. Austria struggled to contain Spain's attacking movement and failed to convert limited opportunities. The convincing victory underlined Spain's status as one of the tournament favourites, with their balanced display in attack and defence drawing praise. Spain will now face Portugal in a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash as they continue their quest for World Cup glory. (PC: AP)

    The Calcutta High Court dismissed a man's appeal challenging a Foreigner Tribunal ruling after finding that 16 documents submitted to prove his Indian citizenship were insufficient and unreliable. The court observed that the records failed to establish a valid link to his claimed Indian ancestry and did not satisfy the legal requirements for proving citizenship. Upholding the tribunal's decision, the High Court ruled that the petitioner had failed to discharge the burden of proof placed on individuals contesting their status. The judgment underscores the importance of credible documentary evidence in citizenship-related legal proceedings in India. (PC: NDTV)

Russia launched a large-scale overnight assault on Kyiv using missiles and drones, triggering explosions across the Ukrainian capital and forcing residents into shelters. Ukrainian air defences intercepted many incoming threats, but several strikes caused casualties, damaged residential buildings and disrupted critical infrastructure. Emergency crews worked through the night to extinguish fires and rescue affected residents. Ukrainian officials condemned the attack as another escalation targeting civilian areas, while authorities continued assessing the full extent of the destruction. The latest barrage underscores the ongoing intensity of the war and the persistent threat facing Ukraine's cities despite strengthened air defence systems. (PC: X)

The body of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, arrived at a major religious complex in Tehran for funeral ceremonies, according to Iranian state media. Thousands of mourners gathered under heavy security to pay their final respects as senior political, military and religious leaders attended the procession. The funeral comes amid heightened regional tensions following recent conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States. Authorities have implemented extensive security measures across the capital, while the leadership transition and its potential impact on Iran's domestic politics and regional relations remain under close international scrutiny. (PC: AP)

Battery management applications used by some e-rickshaw operators have reportedly caused widespread disruptions by remotely disabling vehicles over payment defaults or technical issues. The sudden shutdowns left many drivers stranded with passengers mid-journey, sparking concerns over safety, livelihoods and the growing dependence on app-controlled battery leasing systems. Videos of immobilised e-rickshaws have gone viral on social media, prompting criticism of the technology's impact on daily transport. The incident has renewed calls for stronger regulations, transparent battery leasing practices and safeguards to prevent remote deactivation from disrupting public transport and drivers' incomes. (PC: ANI)