On May 25, 2025, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul. Sharif expressed gratitude for Erdogan's "resolute support" during recent India-Pakistan tensions. The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation, focusing on energy, trade, transportation, defense, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism efforts. Sharif referred to Erdogan as a "dear brother," emphasizing the unbreakable bond between Pakistan and Turkey. The meeting underscored Turkey's backing of Pakistan amid regional conflicts, highlighting their shared commitment to strengthening ties across multiple sectors. (PC: India Today)

Amid escalating tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, labeling them as "absolutely CRAZY." The assaults, among the most intense since the war's inception, coincided with a significant prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, each releasing approximately 1,000 detainees. Trump expressed frustration over the continued violence, emphasizing that such actions could lead to Russia's downfall. He also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, suggesting that the conflict would not have started under his administration and pledging to end the war if re-elected. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hinted at imposing steep tariffs on Russian energy exports should peace initiatives fail, contingent on Trump's support. (PC: NBC & Reuters)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the U.S. for its “silence” after Russia launched its biggest aerial assault since the war began, killing at least 12 people, including three children. The overnight strikes targeted 22 locations with 367 drones and missiles. Zelensky warned that without stronger U.S. pressure, President Putin would feel encouraged to continue the war. Kyiv’s Air Force destroyed 266 UAVs and 45 cruise missiles. Despite recent U.S.-Russia ceasefire talks, Moscow has intensified attacks, with over 60 civilians injured and major infrastructure damaged. Zelensky urged global leaders to act, stating, “War doesn’t stop on weekends.” (PC: Reuters)

A US global threat assessment report has highlighted Pakistan’s growing nuclear ambitions, stating Islamabad views India as an “existential threat.” The report asserts that Pakistan is modernizing its nuclear arsenal, including battlefield nukes, to counter India’s conventional military edge. It also reveals that China is a key supplier of weapons-related materials and technology. Despite receiving IMF support, Pakistan spent $1 billion maintaining its nuclear stockpile in 2023. Meanwhile, India continues its military modernization and sees China as its primary threat. The report notes India’s strategic military advancements, including nuclear tests and regional defense partnerships, amid ongoing border tensions. (PC: Reuters)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, speaking at a community event in New York, recalled the 2016 Pathankot air base attack and slammed Pakistan for squandering what he called its “last opportunity” to show sincerity against terrorism. Tharoor recounted how Indian authorities allowed Pakistani investigators to visit the Pathankot site, only for them to return and blame India for the attack. He highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unexpected 2015 visit to Pakistan as a gesture of goodwill, which was quickly betrayed. Tharoor’s remarks come as part of a global diplomatic mission to expose Pakistan’s alleged role in cross-border terrorism. (PC: HT)

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has entered pre-launch quarantine with the Ax-4 crew ahead of their scheduled June 8, 2025 mission to the International Space Station. Operated by Axiom Space, Ax-4 is a milestone in commercial spaceflight and India’s growing space ambitions. The quarantine ensures the crew remains infection-free before liftoff. Shukla expressed strong confidence in the mission’s success, which also supports India's upcoming Gaganyaan program. A pre-quarantine send-off ceremony reflected pride and optimism. During their stay at the ISS, the crew will conduct vital scientific experiments and technology demonstrations, marking another leap in global and Indian human spaceflight efforts. (PC: India Today)

Sunrisers Hyderabad ended their IPL 2025 season with a thumping 110-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders at Delhi’s Kotla. Heinrich Klaasen smashed an unbeaten 105 off just 39 balls, reaching his century in 37 balls, while Travis Head added 76 off 40 to propel SRH to 278/3. KKR faltered in reply, bowled out for 168 despite the flat pitch. Harsh Dubey and Eshan Malinga bagged three wickets each. Though SRH missed playoffs, their campaign ended on a high, mirroring their explosive start to the season. Klaasen’s fireworks highlighted what could have been a stronger run for the ‘Orange Army’. (PC: X/IPL )

A devastating overnight aerial assault by Russia on Ukraine claimed at least 12 civilian lives, including three siblings in the Zhytomyr region. Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa identified the children as Stanislav (8), Tamara (12), and Roman (17). The strike, involving nearly 300 drones and 69 missiles, is among the largest since the war began. Ms. Betsa extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. The attack has triggered international outcry, with Donald Trump’s Ukraine envoy calling for a ceasefire "now." Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warned that global silence only emboldens Russia as the war continues to escalate.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav expelled his son Tej Pratap Yadav from the party and family for six years, citing "irresponsible behaviour." This came after Tej Pratap posted photos of a woman online, claiming a 12-year relationship. He later said his account was hacked. Lalu said, "His conduct goes against family values and weakens our fight for social justice." Daughter Rohini Acharya backed her father, saying, "Papa is like God, family is our temple." She added, “We won’t let anyone ruin our pride or party’s honour.” The expulsion has sparked strong reactions within the political and family circle. (PC: PTI)

Gujarat Titans lost to Chennai Super Kings by 83 runs, hurting their chances of a top-two finish in IPL 2025. CSK scored a strong 230 runs, led by young players Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis. GT’s bowling struggled, with only Prasidh Krishna bowling well. GT’s batting also failed as Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler were out early. Sai Sudharsan tried to hold the innings but could not win. GT now face pressure to fix their bowling and find middle-order batsmen before playoffs. The playoff race has become more uncertain after this loss. (PC: AP Photo)