US-Iran Talks Resume Amid Fragile Lebanon Ceasefire

US envoy Witkoff and Iran's Araghchi head to Switzerland for nuclear talks The trip follows a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, which had threatened to derail negotiations. The talks aim to turn an interim Iran war pact into a lasting deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. 12

Israeli air strikes kill five in Lebanon hours after ceasefire takes effect The attacks targeted multiple towns in southern Lebanon, undermining the truce brokered by the US and Qatar. The ceasefire is critical to advancing US-Iran negotiations and stabilizing the region. 3

Zelensky warns Belarus to stop hosting Russian drone relay stations Ukraine's president said Russia is using Belarusian towers to guide drone strikes on civilians, hinting at retaliation. The warning came as Russia launched 99 drones overnight, injuring two in Sumy. 45

EU Council President Costa emerges as bloc's representative for talks with Putin Diplomatic sources say António Costa is the 'natural representative' to engage with Moscow on a Ukraine peace deal, though Russia shows no readiness for negotiations. The move follows an EU summit that reaffirmed military support for Ukraine. 6

Peru's election body proclaims results of Senate and Chamber of Deputies elections Six parties cleared the electoral threshold, with Popular Force, Together for Peru, and others securing seats for the 2026–2031 term. The results finalize the legislative branch after the general elections. 7

US Pacific Command drops 'Indo-' prefix, reverting to PACOM The name change reflects a leaner, transactional approach to alliances under the second Trump administration, with implications for Taiwan and regional security dynamics. 8