France and England prepare for Saturday's World Cup third-place playoff in Miami, a fixture with mixed feelings but a rich history of high-scoring games and career-defining moments for players and teams.
Dmitry Trenin argues European NATO members are now the main drivers of confrontation with Russia, viewing the Ukraine conflict as a chance to destroy Russia as a major power and solve the 'Russia problem.' He suggests European elites use the 'enemy at the gates' narrative to suppress dissent and boost economies through defense spending, while the US is now a 'back-seat driver.'
Dmitry Trenin, president of the Russian International Affairs Council, argues European NATO members are now the main force confronting Russia, viewing the Ukraine conflict as a chance to "destroy" Moscow as a major power. He claims they use the "enemy at the gates" narrative to suppress dissent and justify increased defense spending, while the US is now a "back-seat driver."
Heat waves are causing power grids worldwide to struggle, leading to blackouts and increased electricity prices. Infrastructure vulnerability to heat, surging demand for cooling, and reduced efficiency of power plants are key issues. Adapting energy systems with modern infrastructure and storage is crucial.
While governments invest in AI and investors pour billions into startups, the most critical battle in the AI age may be over physical infrastructure like semiconductor factories and data centers, with the United States currently holding a significant advantage in computing capacity.
India hosts BWF World Championships in New Delhi, marking 17 years since the last Indian staging in Hyderabad. The event celebrates India's badminton transformation, from relying on Saina Nehwal to producing multiple world-class players like PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy & Chirag Shetty, with 14 World Championships medals since 2011.
A "war of choice" by the US and Israel on Iran, lasting just over 100 days, has significantly altered global economic, military, and political power dynamics, diminishing US influence and boosting China's standing. Polls indicate a collapse in America's global reputation and a growing perception of China as a necessary partner.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan's visit to Singapore to promote business ties drew social media criticism comparing London's crime rates unfavorably to Singapore's strict law and order, with some users suggesting Khan learn from the city-state.
Iran has emerged as a formidable regional power after the second war against it, with the US and Israel suffering significant defeats. A provisional ceasefire has been reached, but key issues remain unresolved, and the conflict is seen as part of a larger global power transition.
Despite advancements in stealth and speed, large, slow bombers like the B-52, Tu-95, and H-6 remain vital due to their long range, heavy payload capacity for nuclear and conventional weapons, and cost-effectiveness. Modern upgrades enhance their capabilities for standoff strikes and nuclear deterrence.
A study by the Asia Society Policy Institute reveals contrasting diplomatic strategies of US presidents and China's Xi Jinping. US travel focuses on alliances and crisis management, while Xi targets broader engagement in the Global South. China hosts more foreign leaders, but the US is regaining ground in certain regions post-pandemic.
France, led by President Macron, is investing in quantum computing to compete with the US, which also announced significant equity stakes in nine quantum companies. CEO Theau Peronnin highlights growing investor interest due to the technology's economic importance.
New US visa proposals would significantly increase salary thresholds for tech workers, impacting Indian IT firms like TCS and Infosys. Entry-level engineers in San Francisco would need to earn $162,000 annually, a nearly 30% rise.
Quantum computing firms are increasing stock offerings, with 2026 potentially being a breakout year. However, investors are cautioned about the uncertain timing and trajectory of these early-stage technologies.
China is shifting from a balancing act between the US and Russia to positioning itself as the central axis of global power. Beijing's hosting of both Putin and Trump underscores its role as an indispensable broker in the emerging world order, with Moscow viewing China as its economic lifeline and diplomatic shield.
Tata Electronics and ASML have signed a deal to build India's first front-end semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, Gujarat, with an investment of $11bn. This partnership aims to boost India's domestic chip manufacturing capabilities and support its AI ambitions.
Russia and China are forming a structural alliance driven by geopolitical pressure and mutual needs, despite China's cautious approach to full commitment. The partnership, fueled by energy, agriculture, and strategic trade routes like the Northern Sea Route, is reshaping the global balance of power.
China stepped up its stance on Taiwan, warning the US of potential conflicts if the issue is not handled properly, amidst a showcase of China's growing military, technological, and geopolitical confidence during Trump's visit.
The United Arab Emirates is expected to continue making high-risk geopolitical moves with potentially high rewards, following its exit from the Opec oil cartel, as the small but extremely wealthy Gulf state strives to become a global power. Framed by Emirati officials as an orientation towards strengthening economic autonomy, the UAE’s decision to leave the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) on Tuesday coincided with the downgrading of its diplomatic participation in the Gulf...
The UAE has announced its departure from OPEC, citing national interests and long-term economic vision. Analyst Afshin Rattansi told RT the move further weakens the oil cartel whose power has eroded since its 1973 embargo heyday. The departure comes amid Strait of Hormuz closures due to the US-Israeli war with Iran, with Rattansi suggesting the UAE may align more closely with BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
An analysis of how US-led security alliances in Asia are losing coherence due to conflicts in Ukraine and Iran diverting strategic focus back to Eurasia, challenging the Indo-Pacific pivot initiated under Obama. The author argues that the global security architecture is stretched across multiple fronts, with India questioning the value of alignment with the US due to higher tariffs.
Aditya Dhar's 'Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge' maintains strong box office momentum on its 37th day, reaching a worldwide gross of Rs. 1,766.06 crore and aiming to surpass all-time domestic and global records.
