Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the BRICS summit that the Middle East is nearing full-scale war, with violence spreading from Gaza to Lebanon. Putin emphasized the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, likening the situation to a "chain reaction" impacting the entire region. He stressed that peace would not be achieved until the creation of an independent Palestinian state, which he described as correcting historical injustice. Putin urged for the implementation of the two-state solution, as approved by the UN, to break the cycle of violence. Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas also attended the summit.

Stacey Williams, a former model, has accused Donald Trump of groping her in 1993 at Trump Tower, after being introduced by Jeffrey Epstein. Williams alleges that Trump touched her inappropriately, groping her breasts and buttocks during what she perceived as a “twisted game” between the two men. Williams shared her story during a Zoom call organized by a group supporting Kamala Harris. Trump’s campaign denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. Williams stated she had kept quiet for years but felt more confident now in speaking out about the incident, raising questions about Trump’s ties with Epstein.

South Korea is tackling a growing loneliness epidemic, with Seoul pledging $327 million to combat the issue over five years. The funds will be used to create a city "where no-one is lonely" through 24/7 loneliness counseling hotlines, online platforms, and in-person consultations. The city also plans to expand psychological services, green spaces, and meal plans for middle-aged and elderly residents. A rise in "lonely deaths" has brought attention to the problem, especially among men in their 50s and 60s. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon stated the government would “mobilize all municipal capacity” to address the crisis.

Marshall Mosher, a paraglider and adventure athlete, recently filmed a dog sitting on top of the Great Pyramid of Giza while flying over it. He shared the video on Instagram, expressing his amazement at the dog's relaxed presence atop the 4,500-year-old pyramid. After some viewers expressed concern for the dog's safety, Mosher posted a follow-up video showing the dog on the ground, reassuring them that these dogs are known to roam the area and frequently climb up and down the pyramid. Mosher is also promoting a paragliding event next year over the pyramids, encouraging others to join him in meeting these dogs.

The UK is seeing a rapid decline in its nightclub industry, with around 10 venues closing every month, according to new research from the Nighttime Industries Association (NTIA). Over the past four years, the country has lost 37% of its clubs. Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA, warned that the nighttime economy, which plays a crucial role in the UK's identity, community, and economy, is in danger of collapsing without urgent government support. Ahead of the autumn budget, Kill has called for financial assistance to prevent the continued loss of clubs and protect the future of the industry.

The UK government has announced a ban on the sale and supply of single-use vapes, effective June 1, 2025. This decision aims to safeguard children’s health and mitigate environmental damage caused by disposable vaping products. Businesses will be required to clear any remaining stock before the ban takes effect. The devolved governments of Scotland and Northern Ireland are also expected to implement similar bans shortly. This initiative comes amid rising concerns about the increasing prevalence of vaping among youth and the harmful impact of single-use vapes on the environment, reflecting a shift in public health policy.

World leaders are meeting in Paris today for a conference on Lebanon, focusing on the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, which has displaced over a million people and killed more than 2,500. French President Emmanuel Macron announced a €100m aid package for Lebanon. The conference aims to promote a diplomatic solution, mobilize humanitarian aid, and support the Lebanese armed forces. France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot outlined these goals. Seventy delegations and 15 international organizations are attending, though Israel has not been invited, reflecting strained relations between France and Israel, particularly over arms shipments to the region.

The Metropolitan Police have reopened the investigation into the fatal car crash that killed eight-year-old girls Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau at The Study Prep school in Wimbledon. The crash occurred on July 6, 2023, when a Land Rover driven by Claire Freemantle collided with the school building after crashing through a fence. The incident took place during an end-of-term tea party. Following concerns from the families regarding the investigation's thoroughness, a review was launched after it was disclosed that Freemantle had an epileptic seizure while driving and would not face criminal charges. The families remain unconvinced about the inquiry.

During the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, President Vladimir Putin unveiled the "BRICS bill," showcasing the new currency intended to challenge the dominance of the U.S. dollar. This marks the first public presentation of the BRICS currency, which aims to enhance economic collaboration among member nations: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The introduction of this currency is part of a broader strategy to promote trade and investment within the bloc while decreasing dependence on Western financial systems. The BRICS currency is anticipated to play a significant role in reshaping global economic dynamics and international trade practices.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is under pressure to resign as the leader of the Liberal Party, with dissenting MPs setting October 28 as deadline for his decision. During a closed-door meeting on Wednesday, Liberal MPs gathered on Parliament Hill to discuss their concerns with Trudeau, reflecting increasing dissatisfaction within the party. This meeting was part of the regular weekly caucus sessions while the House of Commons is in session. The dissatisfaction among party members highlights significant challenges to Trudeau's leadership and may impact the party's direction moving forward, as internal calls for change continue to grow.