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)

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)

    A man carrying a Tibetan flag set himself on fire outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City, prompting a swift emergency response from police and firefighters. Authorities quickly extinguished the flames and rushed him to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials have not yet disclosed his identity or the extent of his injuries, and the motive behind the act remains under investigation. The dramatic incident drew attention from bystanders and security personnel, while authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding the self-immolation and whether it was intended as a political protest.

A remarkably preserved Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton named "Gus" has gone on public display in New York ahead of a major auction later this month. Standing about 12 feet tall and stretching nearly 40 feet long, the fossil is expected to attract intense interest from museums and private collectors, with experts estimating it could fetch millions of dollars. The exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to view one of the most complete and scientifically significant T. rex specimens before it goes under the hammer. The sale highlights the growing global demand for exceptional dinosaur fossils in the international auction market.

Germany is reportedly considering a major overhaul of its labour policies, including a new sick leave law that would require employees to provide medical proof for absence from work. The proposal is part of broader reforms aimed at tightening workplace discipline, reducing misuse of sick leave, and improving productivity. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration is also linking the reform to wider changes in pension and tax systems. Supporters argue it will modernise labour rules and reduce economic losses, while critics warn it could increase pressure on workers and weaken employee rights. The reforms are still under discussion and have not yet been fully implemented. (PC: AP)

Iran has announced that Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, will not attend his father's funeral because of serious security concerns. According to the Supreme Leader's representative, intelligence assessments warned of potential assassination or attack risks during the high-profile ceremony. Authorities said the decision was taken to ensure his safety amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing security threats. The funeral is expected to draw senior Iranian officials, foreign dignitaries and thousands of mourners under tight security. The development has fueled speculation over Iran's political succession, though officials have not commented on any leadership implications. (PC: India Today)

Russia launched one of its largest missile and drone assaults on Kyiv since the war began, killing at least 21 people and injuring more than 80 others. Nearly 500 drones and over 70 missiles targeted the Ukrainian capital and other regions, damaging residential buildings, a hotel, and critical infrastructure while trapping residents under rubble. Ukrainian air defences intercepted many projectiles, but significant destruction was reported across the city. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed urgent appeals for additional Western air-defence systems, while Russia claimed the strikes were retaliation for recent Ukrainian attacks on Russian infrastructure. Kyiv has declared a day of mourning for the victims. (PC: Reuters)

China is advancing plans to expand its regional connectivity network by linking the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with a proposed China-Myanmar-Bangladesh route, extending its strategic reach from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal. The initiative aims to boost trade, infrastructure and regional connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative. However, analysts say the move could strengthen China's geopolitical influence around India and increase strategic pressure on New Delhi. India remains cautious, citing sovereignty concerns over CPEC and the growing Chinese presence in neighbouring countries, while Bangladesh views the proposal as an opportunity for economic development and improved connectivity. (PC: X)

Russia launched its largest aerial attack on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, overnight, killing at least 18 people and injuring around 90 others, according to Ukrainian officials. The assault involved hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, striking residential neighbourhoods, apartment buildings and other civilian sites across the city. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko described it as the "most massive attack" on the capital in terms of the number of weapons used. Ukraine accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians, while Moscow said the strikes were aimed at military and defence facilities. Rescue operations and investigations are continuing. (PC: BBC)