At least six people, including two children, were killed in overnight Russian drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Another 21 were injured as explosions hit Kyiv and nearby areas, damaging homes and power facilities. A couple in their 60s died when a drone struck their apartment building. Ukraine said it hit a Russian chemical plant in Bryansk using UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles. The attack came as US President Donald Trump postponed his planned summit with Vladimir Putin, citing a lack of progress. Zelensky said Russia’s renewed strikes show Moscow is not ready for peace. (PC: BBC)

On the night of October 21, 2025, a man drove his vehicle into a security barrier near the White House at approximately 10:37 PM. U.S. Secret Service officers from the Uniformed Division immediately apprehended the driver. Following standard procedure, a bomb detection robot assessed the vehicle, which was subsequently deemed safe. The Secret Service has not disclosed the identity of the individual or provided details regarding the motive behind the incident. The investigation into the crash is ongoing. 

At least 35 people were injured during the traditional “Hingot Battle” held a day after Diwali in Indore’s Gautampura area. The annual event sees two local teams, Turra and Kalangi, throw burning Hingots—dried fruits filled with gunpowder—at each other in a centuries-old ritual of bravery. Despite fire brigades and ambulances being on standby, several participants suffered burns, with one critically injured. The fight was stopped early this year due to safety concerns. Critics have called for a ban on the dangerous practice, but villagers defend it as a proud symbol of heritage and courage.

European leaders, including those from the UK, France, Germany, Ukraine, and the EU, issued a joint statement on October 21, 2025, supporting U.S. President Donald Trump's call for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. The statement advocates for halting hostilities and using the current frontlines as a basis for peace negotiations. This endorsement aligns with Trump's approach, which contrasts with Russia's demand for full control over Ukraine's Donbas region, as outlined in a recent private communique to the U.S. The diplomatic initiative faces challenges, including logistical issues and concerns over potential concessions to Russia. (PC: AP)  

New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Diwali events in Queens, saying he grew up in an India that celebrated pluralism. Visiting several Hindu temples, Mamdani said Modi and the BJP promote a vision that “only has room for certain kinds of Indians.” He added that his criticism comes from his belief in equality and inclusion. Mamdani said he would represent all New Yorkers, even those who disagree with him. His comments have drawn sharp reactions from Indian leaders and Hindu Americans, some accusing him of being “anti-Indian” and spreading false claims. (PC: X)

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Taliban Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqoob dismissed Pakistan's claims that India played a role in recent border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Yaqoob termed the allegations as "unfounded, illogical, and unacceptable," emphasizing that Afghanistan maintains an independent foreign policy and does not use its territory against other nations. He reiterated Kabul's commitment to strengthening ties with both India and Pakistan based on mutual respect and national interests. Yaqoob also called for international mediation by Qatar and Turkey to uphold the peace agreement between Afghanistan and Pakistan.     

A Lithuanian couple braved treacherous, icy conditions to scale Poland’s highest peak, Mount Rysy, while carrying their nine-month-old baby. Despite repeated warnings from guides and rescuers and lacking proper gear, they continued their ascent. The father later realised he could not safely descend and attempted to borrow crampons from a guide. The guide eventually carried the baby down to safety. The incident, captured on video, quickly went viral and sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning the parents’ decision as “beyond reckless.”   

Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked US President Donald Trump for his Diwali greetings, saying that India and the US should “illuminate the world with hope.” In his message on X, Modi added that the two democracies must stand united against terrorism in all forms. His post came a day after Trump celebrated Diwali at the White House and claimed he had spoken to Modi about trade issues. During the celebration, Trump lit a traditional brass lamp and praised the festival’s message of light over darkness and good over evil. Modi’s reply emphasized friendship and shared values. (PC: India Today)

Jewellery worth €88 million was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris in a bold daylight robbery. The stolen pieces included a diamond tiara worn by Empress Eugenie and a necklace gifted by Emperor Napoleon. Four masked thieves used power tools to break in through a balcony and escaped within eight minutes on scooters. French President Emmanuel Macron called it an attack on France’s heritage. Officials admitted major security lapses, with alarms and CCTV not working in several rooms. Investigators believe the jewels may already have been melted or smuggled out of France by professional criminals. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump warned Hamas of a “fast, furious and brutal” response if it violates the Gaza ceasefire. He said several US allies were ready to enter Gaza and strike Hamas but claimed he told them and Israel to wait. Trump urged Hamas to “do what is right” to avoid destruction. The warning comes as both sides accuse each other of breaking the truce over aid and hostage issues. US Vice President JD Vance is visiting Israel to discuss Trump’s 20-point ceasefire plan, which includes Hamas disarmament and steps toward a lasting peace.