China ends a 30-year tax exemption on contraceptives, imposing a 13% VAT from 1 January. This 'carrot-and-stick' approach aims to boost the birth rate, but experts doubt its effectiveness. Explore the policy shift and public reaction.
How Joesley Batista, a Brazilian billionaire with a controversial past, became an unofficial envoy in high-stakes talks between Trump, Lula, and Maduro. Discover the blurred lines between business and statecraft.
US and European leaders met in Berlin to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine in a potential peace deal with Russia. While progress was made, critical issues like occupied territories remain unresolved. Read the full analysis.
Japan alleges Chinese warships directed fire-control radar at its fighter jets near disputed islands, escalating tensions. Read the full details of the confrontation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy describes recent US-mediated peace talks as constructive but challenging. Read the latest on the Ukraine war and diplomatic efforts.
Vladimir Putin visits India for talks with Narendra Modi, focusing on defence and energy. The summit occurs as the US pressures India to cut Russian trade. Get the latest analysis.
As Moldova begins EU accession talks, a shift from dry bureaucracy to cultural outreach—from influencer pie-making to pan-European TV—could be key to building genuine solidarity and identity.
Putin and Trump's envoy fail to agree on Ukraine peace terms. Analysis reveals Europe's crucial but unsustainable role in blocking a deal favouring Russia. Read the full breakdown.
Pope Leo stresses Europe's vital role in Ukraine peace talks, suggesting Italy could mediate. Read his in-flight remarks and analysis of the diplomatic push.
High-stakes Moscow talks between the US and Russia yield no breakthrough on Ukraine. Putin issues stark war warning to Europe as NATO ministers convene in Brussels.
Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner received VIP treatment in Moscow but failed to secure Russian backing for a US peace plan. Analysis suggests Washington's approach favours the Kremlin. Read the full report.
The UK government has postponed its ruling on China's controversial 'super-embassy' near Tower Bridge to 20 January, aligning with Keir Starmer's planned trip to Beijing. Read the latest on the diplomatic and security implications.
Pope Leo has publicly advised Donald Trump to pursue dialogue over military force to address the Venezuela crisis. Read the latest on this diplomatic intervention.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warns upcoming US-Russia talks may force Kyiv into concessions. Macron hosts Zelenskyy as diplomatic efforts intensify. Read the latest developments.
Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff meets Vladimir Putin in Moscow for Ukraine peace talks, as a senior NATO officer suggests considering a 'pre-emptive strike' against Russia. Read the latest developments.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warns China poses real security threats but urges a 'sober realist' policy. He also defends his foreign approach as a post-Brexit shift. Read the latest.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meets France's Emmanuel Macron in Paris as US-led peace talks gain momentum. Key diplomatic moves unfold across Europe.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy begins historic Ireland visit as crucial US peace talks continue. Read the latest developments in Ukraine-Russia diplomacy.
Pope Leo XIV addresses Lebanese leaders, urging peace as highest priority. Read his powerful message about resilience and regional stability in our exclusive coverage.
Ukrainian officials meet US counterparts in Florida to discuss ending Russia's war as weekend attacks kill six. Critical negotiations follow revised peace framework proposals.
Iran's football federation will boycott the World Cup draw after US granted only four visas. Federation president denied entry to Washington event. Read the full story.
A record 3.7 million applicants in China are competing for just 38,100 civil service roles, highlighting a major shift towards job security amid economic uncertainty. Discover the driving forces behind this trend.
Pope Leo has landed in Ankara for his first foreign trip since becoming pontiff, focusing on Ukraine peace efforts and Middle East tensions. Follow his three-day itinerary.
Donald Trump has reportedly urged Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to 'dial down the volume' in the dispute with China over Taiwan. Discover the diplomatic implications.
Protests erupt in China's Guizhou province over a controversial cremation directive, highlighting a 70% surge in rural unrest. Explore the clash between policy and tradition.
US Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll holds clandestine talks with Russian and Ukrainian officials in Abu Dhabi while Russia continues attacks on Kyiv. Latest developments on peace efforts.
On the eve of the budget, we assess the criticism facing Chancellor Rachel Reeves, her pitch to Labour MPs, and the potential for tax rises. Plus, a warning on China tariffs.
Taiwan's Prime Minister Cho Jung-tai declares a 'return' to China is not an option following a phone call between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump. Explore the escalating tensions.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping told Donald Trump that Taiwan's return remains vital to China's interests during their recent phone discussion. Read the full analysis.
Ukraine peace talks advance as Zelenskyy may meet Trump this week. Revised 19-point plan removes Russia's maximalist demands. European leaders push for involvement in negotiations.