Israel has formally recognised Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, becoming the first country to do so. The decision establishes official diplomatic ties and marks a major milestone for Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991.

Somaliland’s authorities welcomed the move, saying it reflects decades of political stability, self-governance, and democratic processes. The territory has operated with its own institutions, security forces, and elections despite lacking international recognition.

Somalia responded sharply, condemning the recognition and calling on Israel to withdraw its decision. Somali officials described the move as a violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity, reiterating that Somaliland remains part ...

The government of Japan has approved a record defence budget for the coming fiscal year, marking another major step in its ongoing military buildup amid growing security concerns in the region.

The spending plan allocates roughly $58 billion to defence, placing Japan on track to become the world’s third-largest military spender in the coming years. The increase reflects Tokyo’s commitment to strengthening deterrence capabilities, including missile defence, long-range strike systems and enhanced cooperation with allies.

Officials said the expanded budget is intended to respond to an increasingly complex security environment, citing regional military activity and concerns over stability in East Asia. The ...

China has announced sanctions against multiple US defence companies and senior executives in response to recent arms sales to Taiwan, escalating already strained relations with the United States.

The measures target firms involved in the production, sale or transfer of military equipment to Taiwan, as well as individuals holding leadership roles within those companies. Sanctions include asset freezes in China, restrictions on business activities, and bans on entry into the country.

Chinese authorities said the actions were taken to safeguard national sovereignty and security, reiterating opposition to foreign military support for Taiwan. Beijing views arms sales to the island as interference in ...

US President Donald Trump has held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on potential pathways toward ending the war in Ukraine, according to officials familiar with the discussions.

The talks focused on prospects for negotiations with Russia, possible territorial arrangements, and the role of security guarantees in any future settlement. Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remain central to Kyiv’s position, while acknowledging growing pressure to explore diplomatic options.

Trump has indicated that his administration is assessing alternative strategies aimed at bringing the conflict to an end, emphasising the need for faster progress toward a negotiated outcome. While details of ...

Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro has undergone a successful surgical procedure, according to medical officials, while continuing to serve a jail sentence linked to legal cases stemming from his time in office.

Bolsonaro underwent surgery to treat abdominal complications related to earlier medical issues, including injuries sustained during a 2018 campaign stabbing. Doctors said the operation was completed as planned and that his condition is stable.

Medical staff indicated that Bolsonaro is expected to remain under observation for several days as a precaution, with recovery expected to take place under supervision due to his incarceration status. Officials said there were no immediate ...