Microsoft has accused Chinese state-linked hacker groups of exploiting vulnerabilities in its SharePoint server software to carry out cyberattacks targeting global organizations. The attackers, identified as Lilin Typhoon, Violet Typhoon, and Storm-2603, infiltrated on-premises servers to steal sensitive data. Microsoft confirmed its cloud-based SharePoint was not breached and has released security updates, urging users to patch systems immediately. The hackers reportedly used encryption to maintain ongoing access. Investigations continue as Microsoft warns of potential repeat attacks on unpatched systems.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the establishment of a Palestinian state is essential for resolving the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including tensions with Israel. He reiterated Russia’s long-standing support for a two-state solution, noting that the country officially recognized Palestine's independence back in 1988.

Peskov urged all parties to adhere to UN Security Council resolutions to achieve lasting peace. Meanwhile, in the UK, 220 MPs—mostly from the ruling Labour Party—have called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to formally recognize Palestine. France has also announced its intention to recognize the Palestinian state soon.

During a meeting in Washington with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Pakistan’s "unmatched sacrifice" in the fight against terrorism. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, trade, investment, and regional peace. Dar emphasized Pakistan’s desire for a strong and sustainable partnership with the U.S. Previously, Trump hosted Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir at the White House, acknowledging his role in de-escalating tensions with India. While Pakistan welcomed these efforts, India rejected them.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that a direct meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is imminent. Speaking to reporters before departing for Scotland, Trump remarked that the talks should have happened three months ago. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has also expressed interest in bringing Putin and Trump together in Istanbul. Meanwhile, Kyiv has proposed a peace summit in August, though the Kremlin insists any such meeting must be part of a finalized peace agreement.

The United States has removed sanctions on several close associates of Myanmar’s military junta, following a letter from junta leader Min Aung Hlaing praising former President Donald Trump and requesting tariff reductions. The move marks a significant policy shift, drawing criticism from Human Rights Watch, which warns it could undermine efforts to hold the military accountable for crimes against humanity. Myanmar’s rare mineral resources and geopolitical considerations with China are believed to influence the US decision.

SpaceX's satellite-based internet service, Starlink, suffered a massive global outage lasting nearly two and a half hours, impacting more than six million users across over 140 countries. The disruption was caused by a software malfunction, confirmed by Starlink’s Head of Engineering, Michael Nicolls. Elon Musk also addressed the issue on X, expressing regret and assuring a permanent fix. Analysts are calling it the most significant outage in Starlink’s history. Since its launch in 2020, Starlink has deployed over 8,000 satellites, providing internet access to remote areas worldwide.

Apple’s upcoming iPad Pro will introduce dual front-facing cameras, one for landscape and another for portrait mode, ensuring users remain centered during FaceTime, video calls, and selfies regardless of device orientation. The new model will also feature the more powerful and energy-efficient M5 chip, improving battery life and multitasking. This chip is expected to be integrated into other Apple products like Vision Pro, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, and iMac in the future, marking a significant technological leap for the iPad Pro line.

Russia is set to introduce a new digital app called ‘Max,’ pre-installed on all new devices from September, aiming to enhance government control over citizens’ online activities. The app offers messaging, video calls, government services, and mobile payments but stores data within Russia, allowing the FSB to monitor users. Experts warn this could lead to banning popular apps like WhatsApp, forcing citizens to switch to ‘Max’ and marking a significant step in Russia’s expanding digital surveillance.

Russia’s chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky stated that a direct meeting between Presidents Putin and Zelensky will only occur once a comprehensive peace agreement is ready for signing. The Istanbul talks concluded without a final deal, and Medinsky emphasized that a summit should be solely for signing, not negotiating. Drawing on historical examples, he warned against premature meetings. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed no meeting will happen until terms are finalized, though Putin remains open to talks if progress is made.

In a major policy shift, former President Donald Trump now supports the crypto industry as the U.S. Congress passes the Genius Act, granting legal status to stablecoins. These digital currencies must be backed by U.S. dollars or equivalent assets, ensuring stability and safer transactions. The law addresses long-standing demands for regulation, boosting investor confidence. While critics warn of potential risks from increased tech-company involvement in finance, supporters see it as a step toward a modern, innovative financial system.

A regional passenger plane carrying nearly 50 people, including five children, has gone missing in Russia’s Amur region. The aircraft, operated by Siberia-based Angara Airlines, vanished from radar on Thursday and lost all contact with air traffic control. The missing plane is an An-24 model, with 43 passengers and six crew members on board. Search operations are hampered by rugged terrain and severe weather, although helicopters and drones are being deployed. The Russian military has been asked to assist in the ongoing rescue efforts.

After winning the primary in the New York mayoral race on a progressive platform, Muslim candidate Zohran Mamdani is facing coordinated attacks from Hindutva groups. These groups have targeted him over his Muslim identity, criticism of Indian PM Modi, and his progressive stances. Hate speech online includes labels like "jihadi zombie" and slogans such as "New York will become Pakistan." Some Indian-American communities have joined the smear campaign, but Mamdani retains strong support from diverse religious and ethnic coalitions. Experts view the attacks as part of a broader global fascist push and consider Mamdani's candidacy a symbol of political resistance.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a “massive” trade agreement with Japan. According to Trump, the deal will see Japan invest $550 billion in the United States and impose a 15% reciprocal tariff.

The agreement will also open Japanese markets to American automobiles, trucks, and agricultural products. Speaking at the White House, Trump called the deal "one of the largest in history." Japanese negotiator Ryosei Akazawa also praised the agreement as a success.

US Senator Lindsey Graham has warned India and China that their continued purchase of Russian oil could lead to severe economic consequences, including a 100% tariff if Donald Trump returns to power. Graham accused the two nations of enabling Russia’s war in Ukraine and labeled their oil trade as “blood-soaked.” India responded firmly, asserting that its energy needs are paramount and decisions are based on market realities. NATO also urged these nations to pressure Russia toward a peace deal or face serious repercussions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s campaign proposals as “foolish and pointless.” Netanyahu questioned Mamdani’s plan to reallocate police budgets and impose higher taxes on the wealthy, warning these could destabilize the city’s economy. He argued that Mamdani would not last a full term if such policies were implemented. Mamdani previously labeled Israeli airstrikes in Gaza as “genocide,” a stance that has drawn significant attention. With New York City home to a large Jewish population, Netanyahu’s comments are likely aimed at influencing conservative Jewish voters.