Trump administration escalates multiple geopolitical tensions while China and Russia strengthen ties, as regional conflicts intensify in Ukraine, Middle East, and Africa
Key Points
Trump announces US and Nigerian forces killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, Islamic State's alleged 'second in command' and 'most active terrorist in the world,' in a 'very complex mission' in the Lake Chad basin.
Xi Jinping warns Trump that mishandling Taiwan could spark 'conflicts,' prioritizing the contested island's fate and US military support despite Trump's efforts to mend US-China ties and negotiate trade deals.
Trump uses Taiwan arms sales as a 'very good negotiating chip' with China, raising concerns among analysts about the reliability of US support for the island and contradicting traditional security commitments.
Russian President Putin visits Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping shortly after Trump's China visit, as Kremlin signals it closely monitored Trump's diplomatic engagement with China.
Russian airstrike kills at least 24 people in Kyiv apartment complex while Ukrainian forces strike Russian residential buildings and oil refinery in Ryazan, indicating no near-term ceasefire in Ukraine.
Mali's armed forces supported by Russian mercenaries launch airstrikes against rebel coalition of Islamist extremists and Tuareg separatists seeking to destabilize the junta's grip on power.
Hamas confirms death of Qassam Brigades leader Izz al-Din al-Haddad in Israeli strike; al-Haddad took over military wing command in Gaza last year as Gaza conflict continues.
UN human rights experts issue rare public appeal against Equatorial Guinea deporting US asylum seekers to their home countries, warning their lives would be 'in danger' due to Trump administration deportation policies.
Iran warns of readiness for war and economic costs as US-Iran talks stall, while Trump indicates Iran has 'interest in reaching an agreement,' signaling continued diplomatic tensions.
Sudanese army captures key town near Ethiopian border from RSF faction, while Ebola outbreak kills 65 in Democratic Republic of Congo with Uganda also reporting cases of Bundibugyo strain.