Toyosi Osideinde, a 30-year-old British financial adviser and extreme travel enthusiast, embarked on an 11-day trip to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, seeking unique experiences. Having previously visited high-risk countries like Iraq and Syria, he entered Afghanistan via Pakistan, navigating tight security and Taliban scrutiny. During his stay, he explored Afghan life and noted surprising signs of social freedom for women under Taliban rule. Unexpectedly, he developed a romantic relationship with a Taliban member serving as his hotel security guard, bonding over meals and watching "Gossip Girl," despite a language barrier. Their brief but intense relationship was marked by emotional and physical intimacy. Toyosi plans further ventures to Ukraine and Georgia, continuing his passion for exploring politically volatile regions. (PC: The Tribune)

US President Donald Trump has condemned Russia's missile attacks on Kyiv that left at least 12 civilians dead. In a fiery Truth Social post, he wrote, “Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Let’s get the Peace Deal DONE!” Speaking alongside Norway’s Prime Minister, Trump said the US is applying “a lot of pressure” on both Moscow and Kyiv but didn’t provide details. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling the strikes “impudent,” urged greater international pressure on Russia. Despite Trump’s urgent plea, the conflict appears far from resolution, with fears of further escalation growing.

Kyiv faced its deadliest Russian assault in nine months as missiles and drones pounded the capital for 11 hours, killing at least 12 and wounding 90. The attack damaged multiple neighborhoods, forcing families into shelters. President Zelenskyy cut short a South Africa visit, calling the bombardment one of Russia’s “most outrageous.” U.S. President Donald Trump issued rare criticism of Putin, urging him to “STOP!” as peace talks remain deadlocked. The Ukrainian military reported over 200 weapons used in the assault. European leaders condemned Moscow, citing the strike as further proof of Russia’s disregard for peace efforts. (PC: AP)

In response to India’s strong retaliatory measures following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, Pakistan's National Security Committee will convene on Thursday. The high-level meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, will include the country’s top civilian and military leadership. India, citing cross-border involvement, suspended the Indus Water Treaty, downgraded diplomatic ties, and closed the Attari border ICP, among other actions. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that the meeting aims to frame an appropriate response. The attack was claimed by The Resistance Front, a Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy, deepening tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. (PC: Reuters)

A fierce gunbattle erupted in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Wednesday, a day after 26 civilians, including tourists, were killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. Security forces have reportedly trapped a top commander of The Resistance Front (TRF), the group behind the massacre, in the Tangmarg area. Meanwhile, earlier in the day, the Indian Army foiled an infiltration attempt in Baramulla, killing two terrorists and recovering arms, ammunition, and Pakistani currency. This intensified crackdown comes amid nationwide outrage and grief over the Pahalgam attack, with high-level security reviews being conducted by top leaders, including PM Modi and HM Amit Shah. (PC: PTI)

In a rare and powerful show of public grief and protest, the Kashmir Valley observed a complete shutdown on Wednesday following the brutal killing of 26 tourists in Pahalgam. The attack, the deadliest on civilians in recent years, drew widespread condemnation across political and religious lines. Shops, schools, and transport were shut, with Srinagar's streets eerily deserted. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced ex gratia payments for victims and vowed justice. Muslim leaders and mainstream parties joined in the call for peace and solidarity, condemning the attack as un-Islamic and barbaric. (PC: Reuters)

Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, a young Navy officer, was among the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, just six days after marrying schoolteacher Himanshi. The couple had planned a Swiss honeymoon, but visa delays led them to scenic Pahalgam. Their photo, captured amid the aftermath, went viral, symbolizing the heartbreak of the tragedy. Himanshi, still wearing bridal bangles, called her brother to share the devastating news. The couple married on April 16 in Mussoorie. Lt Narwal’s body has been brought to Delhi and will be taken to Karnal. Families, once celebrating love, are now mourning an unimaginable loss. (PTI)

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) warns that the UK will be among the hardest hit by the escalating global trade war, primarily due to new U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump. The IMF slashed the UK's 2025 growth forecast from 1.6% to 1.1%, citing heightened inflation, rising energy costs, and increased borrowing expenses. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to meet U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington to negotiate reductions to the 10% baseline tariff on UK goods, with steel, aluminum, and car exports facing an additional 25% levy. Despite potential tariff relief, the IMF cautions that global economic spillovers and domestic challenges, including inflation and energy prices, will continue to weigh heavily on the UK's economy. (PC: Supply Chain Brain)

At least seven tourists were injured in a suspected terrorist attack in Baisaran Valley, located in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday. Gunfire was reported in the area, prompting an immediate response from security forces, including the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the J&K Police. The popular tourist destination, accessible only on foot or horseback, was swiftly cordoned off as an operation was launched. Initial reports suggest the attack was targeted at civilians. Authorities are continuing combing operations, and the situation remains tense. The incident raises fresh concerns over security in the Valley amid the upcoming tourist season.

US Vice President JD Vance announced that India and the US have finalised the terms of reference for trade negotiations, laying the foundation for a future trade agreement. Speaking during his India visit, Vance called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "tough negotiator" and praised his leadership. The announcement comes after a temporary pause on Trump-era tariffs. Vance emphasized that the US seeks partnership, not to preach, and acknowledged Modi’s popularity, joking that his approval ratings made him jealous. The development marks a significant step forward in strengthening economic and strategic ties between the world’s two largest democracies. (PC: India Today)