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)

Battery management applications used by some e-rickshaw operators have reportedly caused widespread disruptions by remotely disabling vehicles over payment defaults or technical issues. The sudden shutdowns left many drivers stranded with passengers mid-journey, sparking concerns over safety, livelihoods and the growing dependence on app-controlled battery leasing systems. Videos of immobilised e-rickshaws have gone viral on social media, prompting criticism of the technology's impact on daily transport. The incident has renewed calls for stronger regulations, transparent battery leasing practices and safeguards to prevent remote deactivation from disrupting public transport and drivers' incomes. (PC: ANI)

    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.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout goal as Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic Round of 32 match in Toronto to reach the last 16. Ivan Perisic gave Croatia the lead before Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot after a VAR review awarded Portugal a spot-kick. Substitute Goncalo Ramos then headed home the winner in stoppage time from a Rafael Leao cross. Croatia thought they had forced extra time through Josko Gvardiol, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR check. Portugal will now face Spain in the Round of 16. 

    The Indian Navy successfully prevented a piracy attempt on a merchant vessel in the Gulf of Aden after responding swiftly to a distress call. Naval personnel intercepted the suspected pirate skiff, forcing the attackers to abandon their assault and ensuring the ship's safe passage. The incident highlights the Navy's continued role in safeguarding vital international shipping routes. Meanwhile, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) warned that three commercial vessels and their crews remain in captivity after being seized by Somali pirates, urging sustained international cooperation to combat piracy and protect maritime security in the region. (PC: The Hindu)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi strongly condemned terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, during the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit in New Delhi. The leaders denounced the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack and the Red Fort blast, calling for those responsible to be brought to justice. They urged coordinated international action against UN-designated terrorist organisations, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), Al-Qaeda and ISIS. The summit also reaffirmed both nations' commitment to strengthening strategic, defence, economic and technology cooperation while promoting a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific region. (PC: AP)

A British woman has shared her decade-long battle with neurocysticercosis after doctors discovered 38 parasites in her brain, years after a 2007 trip to India. The rare infection, caused by pork tapeworm larvae, led to severe headaches, seizures, psychosis, and long-term neurological complications. She underwent extensive treatment with antiparasitic drugs and steroids before her condition gradually improved. Medical experts note that neurocysticercosis is typically spread through food or water contaminated with tapeworm eggs rather than simply eating pork, highlighting the importance of hygiene and sanitation in preventing the disease. (PC: Instagram)

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.

Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said state-run oil marketing companies have suffered cumulative losses of around ₹74,781 crore due to selling petrol, diesel and LPG below market-linked prices in recent years. Despite these losses, he indicated that consumers could benefit from lower fuel prices if global crude oil rates remain subdued. Puri stressed that any reduction would depend on international market trends and the financial health of oil companies. The government continues to balance consumer interests with the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of public sector fuel retailers amid fluctuating global energy prices. (PC: X)