Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, was hit by at least five Russian drones late Thursday, triggering a fire and causing unknown casualties. The attack occurred during the country's longest air raid alert since the Russian invasion, lasting over 16 hours. Residents were advised to stay in shelters as the city was rocked by multiple explosions. Kharkiv has been a frequent target of Russian attacks in recent weeks. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had visited the city earlier Thursday to boost morale. The attack has sparked concern and highlights the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

A Garuda Indonesia plane carrying 468 passengers made an emergency landing at Makassar airport on Wednesday after its engine caught fire shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 747-400 was bound for Madinah, Saudi Arabia, when the incident occurred. All 450 passengers, including Hajj pilgrims, and 18 crew members were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported. The pilot made the decision to return to the airport after observing sparks and fire in one of the engines. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the engine problem.

Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico narrowly escaped death in an assassination attempt when he was shot in the stomach during a meeting with supporters in Handlova. The 59-year-old leader sustained injuries after five shots were fired outside the House of Culture. Slovakia's president-elect Peter Pellegrini described Fico's condition as critical, emphasizing that he is enduring the worst hours of his life. Suspect Juraj Cintula, 71, faces attempted murder charges and a potential 25-year prison sentence. Fico, a controversial figure in Slovak politics, maintains close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin amidst tensions ahead of the upcoming European Union Parliament elections.            

The Israeli army confirmed on Thursday that two Thai hostages, previously believed to be alive in Gaza, were killed during the October 7 attack and their bodies are being held in the Palestinian territory. Army spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated, "We informed the families of two kidnapped Thai citizens, who worked in agriculture in the plantations near Kibbutz Beeri, that they were murdered in the terrorist attack on October 7 and their bodies are being held by Hamas.

Violence intensifies in New Caledonia for the third day following France's imposition of a state of emergency in response to deadly protests over voting reforms. Five, including two police officers, were killed, with over 60 security personnel injured and 214 arrests made. Amidst escalating tensions, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal pledges to restore order. Indigenous Kanak community members are among the casualties, sparking condemnation and appeals for calm. The unrest stems from proposed changes to voter lists, igniting longstanding tensions over independence in the French Pacific territory. The state of emergency remains in effect for at least 12 days.

South West Water (SWW) attributes a parasitic outbreak infecting hundreds to a faulty valve. Public Health confirms 22 cases of cryptosporidiosis in Brixham, Devon, with up to 100 reporting symptoms. The government vows a thorough investigation. SWW's Laura Flowerdew identifies a damaged valve, prioritizing public health and initiating corrective measures. MP Anthony Mangnall criticizes SWW's response, urging accountability. Affected residents advised to boil water for another week. SWW distributes water and increases compensation. Residents express anger over delayed notification and health impacts. Businesses suffer losses. Investigation ongoing as affected individuals seek medical attention.

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico remains in "very serious" condition after being shot five times in Handlova. Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak confirms Fico's stable but critical state following emergency surgery. The alleged attacker, a 71-year-old writer, acted alone and had joined anti-government protests. President-elect Peter Pellegrini reports Fico can speak briefly but is fatigued. The incident prompts calls for political calm from President Zuzana Caputova and a suspension of campaigning before European Parliament elections. Global leaders condemn the attack, with Russia calling it "absolutely unacceptable." Fico's government has faced polarized debate and policy shifts since his return to power.

Slovak authorities charge a suspected gunman with attempted murder after an attack on Prime Minister Robert Fico. The incident occurred following an election win by a Fico ally, raising concerns in the politically divided nation. While Fico's condition stabilizes, it remains serious. The shooting prompts calls for calm and cessation of political campaigning. Slovakia's politics, marked by pro-European and nationalist factions, witness heightened tensions amidst disinformation and social media attacks. Surgeons battle to save Fico, a seasoned leader facing accusations of pro-Kremlin leanings. Locals express shock and condemnation over the assault in Banska Bystrica.

Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, makes a virtual court appearance regarding anticorruption law amendments. Despite demands for transparency, the hearing wasn't livestreamed, sparking accusations of collusion between the chief justice and the government. Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, alleges bias against them. The virtual appearance marks Khan's first court appearance since his imprisonment in August 2023. Meanwhile, tensions persist between Khan's supporters and the government. The hearing follows government amendments to the National Accountability Ordinance, altering the powers of Pakistan's main anticorruption agency.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is no longer in a life-threatening condition after being shot in an assassination attempt on Wednesday. Fico, 59, was shot five times and underwent surgery, but is now stable and out of danger. One bullet went through his stomach and another hit a joint, causing serious injuries. Initially, his condition was critical, but doctors report a successful operation. The attack occurred as Fico left a government meeting, and authorities have classified it as a politically motivated assassination attempt. An investigation is ongoing.