Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has likened former U.S. President Donald Trump's "America First" policy to Adolf Hitler’s nationalist slogan, "Germany Above All." In an op-ed, Lavrov argued that such a stance undermines the post-war global order built on the UN Charter and sovereign equality. He expressed hope that the U.S. would shift away from dominance and cooperate as an equal global power, emphasizing Russia’s willingness to work together.

Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of BNP, has called for Sheikh Hasina’s swift trial for the killings of 2,000 people during the July-August movement and the persecution of thousands of party leaders and activists over the past 16 years. Speaking at a rally in Feni, he criticized the autocratic regime and urged unity for a people’s government through elections. The rally also provided financial aid to families of martyrs from the 2024 student-citizen movement across Feni, Noakhali, and Lakshmipur.

On the eve of receiving the report from the Commission on Judicial and Public Administration Reforms, the Chief Advisor stated that future generations will judge what actions were taken or not taken. Expressing gratitude to the commission members, he further mentioned that these reports would be published after reaching a consensus with political parties and stakeholders. Implementation will also be based on this consensus. He emphasized that all citizens of Bangladesh, regardless of wealth or status, are intricately connected to these reports and assured that everyone’s civil rights would be protected. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity and importance of publishing the report in English.

Hasnat Abdullah referred to Sheikh Hasina as a butcher, stating, “Hasina and Chhatra League are now a ‘death chapter.’ On August 5, we closed this chapter. In post-uprising Bangladesh, despite differences in opinion and politics among anti-fascist parties, discussions will take place at the same table. But one thing is clear—there will be no rehabilitation of Hasina and fascism.” He also criticized the media for not referring to Hasina as a fascist and a murderer, accusing them of maintaining Hasina’s fascist media structure. Additionally, he warned that any media outlet broadcasting Hasina’s speeches would be identified as her collaborator.

The Indian Border Security Force (BSF) has detained a Bangladeshi cattle trader at the Naogaon border. On Tuesday night, a group of 8-10 cattle traders crossed the Adatla border into India to bring back cattle. While returning, the BSF patrol chased them, and while the others managed to escape, Sirajul Islam was captured. Lieutenant Colonel Sadikur Rahman, commander of the 16 BGB Battalion, stated that efforts are underway to bring back the detained youth.

The Administrative Reform Commission has proposed dividing Bangladesh into four provinces and creating separate divisions for Comilla and Faridpur. It also recommends the formation of a Greater Dhaka Capital City with Dhaka and Narayanganj, along with a separate police unit for immigration. Additionally, the commission suggests establishing three Public Service Commissions. The Judicial Reform Commission has also recommended the recruitment of attorneys via a service exam to ensure judicial independence. The recommendations were submitted to the Chief Advisor, Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

The Public Administration Reform Commission has proposed allowing government employees to retire with full pension benefits after 15 years of service. The recommendation, made by the commission, aims to provide an option for employees who wish to transition in their careers. Currently, government employees are eligible for retirement benefits, including pensions, after 25 years of service. The proposal seeks to offer more flexibility and career options to public sector workers.

Saudi Arabia has strongly opposed Donald Trump’s plan to displace Palestinians and allow the United States to take control of the Gaza Strip. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that any attempt to expel Palestinians will not be accepted, and the country’s position on the Palestinian issue is non-negotiable. Saudi Arabia also stated that it will not normalize relations with Israel until an independent Palestinian state is established, reiterating its firm stance on the matter.

Protests have erupted globally, with hundreds of people gathering outside the White House in Washington D.C. against Trump’s threat to occupy Gaza. Demonstrators condemned Israel’s weapons supply and Trump’s desire for ethnic cleansing. Leaders from Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, and others have condemned the proposal, stressing the need for a two-state solution. International organizations and political figures warned that Trump’s actions could destabilize the region, leading to widespread conflict and violating international law.

Hasnat Abdullah, convenor of the anti-discrimination student movement, and Sargis Alam, chief organizer of the Citizen Committee, have posted on their verified Facebook pages seeking public opinions on a new political party. The party, which will be led by students and youth, is expected to be launched this month. In their post, they ask the public to share their preferences for the party’s structure through a short form, taking only five minutes to complete.

A major fire broke out at Kolkata Airport on Wednesday near the conveyor belt, but no casualties have been reported. The fire began during welding work when sparks ignited a flex, causing it to spread to nearby items. The airport staff managed to control the fire within 15 minutes before the fire services arrived. Despite the scare, flight operations were not affected. This incident raised concerns ahead of the World Bengal Business Summit, which began on the same day.

The Public Administration Reform Commission has recommended the formation of a ‘Capital City Government,’ federally controlled like New Delhi, to manage the sprawling Dhaka Metropolitan Area. The proposal, presented to the Chief Advisor of the Interim Government, includes additional reforms such as dividing the country into four provinces and changing the titles of deputy commissioners. This comes as part of the broader state reform efforts, with six commissions submitting their reports so far.

The Home Affairs Advisor has stated that efforts are underway to arrest those involved in the July uprising murders who have fled abroad. Among the 105 accused in the International Crimes Tribunal, 35 have been arrested, which has caused some anger. When asked about the public’s satisfaction with the law and order situation, the advisor said that the public can answer that, and the media colleagues can compare the current situation with when they took on their responsibilities. Efforts are being made to bring back foreign criminals through Interpol’s red alerts.

The National Revenue Board has exempted VAT on the fees, hotel charges, and hospitality expenses of foreign doctors who came to treat those injured in the anti-discrimination student movement. This exemption has been granted under the powers conferred by Section 23 of the Income Tax Act.

BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed has declared that Awami League should be banned from Bangladeshi politics, citing alleged genocide and crimes against humanity. He criticized what he described as contradictions in government actions—calling for Awami League’s prohibition while still allowing their programs and using police to suppress opposition activities. Salahuddin emphasized that BNP had previously proposed amendments to the International Crimes Tribunal Act to prosecute Awami League as an organization. He warned that any political or administrative decision to regulate Awami League’s activities without a formal trial would be a weak move.