EU leaders gathered at an emergency summit in Brussels to stand with Ukraine as transatlantic relations with the US deteriorate. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as a "watershed moment," urging the bloc to increase defence spending and rapidly rearm to address the clear and present danger facing Europe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed relief and gratitude for EU solidarity, especially after the US halted support and intelligence sharing under President Trump. Leaders aim to boost aid for Ukraine, but must convince Hungary’s pro-Moscow leader Viktor Orban not to block their efforts. On the sidelines, French President Emmanuel Macron met Zelenskyy, suggesting France might consider sharing its nuclear deterrent, while emphasizing Europe’s need for defence sovereignty—a stance gaining traction among allies.

More than two months after the fall of Bashar al Assad, Syria’s new administration is taking its first major step towards charting the way forward. The national dialogue conference, set to begin on Tuesday, aims to address key political, economic, and social issues. But beyond the official agenda, new leaders have to balance international demands with internal divisions.

Russia continues to insist that it will accept a peace deal with Ukraine - but only on its terms. Moscow has also dismissed suggestions of European troops on the ground in Ukraine after the conflict ends.

Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino has called Donald Trump a liar in an angry response to the US president's claim that he will “take back” the Panama Canal. Trump says Panama has violated the terms of a treaty and is allowing China and other countries to control the US-built waterway.

Diplomats at the United Nations have called on Israel to adhere to its international obligations regarding the Gaza Strip, as the blockade on humanitarian deliveries continues. This comes after the official conclusion of phase one of the aid distribution last week, which has left the region's residents facing severe shortages of basic supplies. The calls for action intensify as the humanitarian crisis deepens and the international community pressures Israel to allow the entry of life-saving aid.

US President Donald Trump is temporarily pausing all pending US military aid for Ukraine. A White House official says Washington is reviewing whether billions of dollars given to Kyiv is contributing to a solution to end the war with Russia. Trump has criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskky for suggesting the end of the war is likely far away, warning America won't put up with it for much longer. A meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy in the Oval Office on Friday descended into a shouting match after Ukraine's leader demanded security guarantees.

Hamas has rejected Israel's demand for an extension to phase one of the Gaza ceasefire, accusing it of blackmail over releasing more captives. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has blocked life-saving aid into the strip drawing global condemnation and concerns.

US President Donald Trump signed an order making English the US’s official language, citing unity and efficiency. Critics call it divisive, targeting non-English speakers. The move makes translation services optional for federal agencies. Trump had previously courted Spanish-speaking voters but later removed the White House’s Spanish website. Over 32 states already recognise English as their official language. The US Census says one in five Americans speaks another language at home. The order could be revoked by a future administration.

In Ukraine, public support for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy grows following a tense and controversial meeting at the White House. The three-way debate with Donald Trump and his vice president ended with Zelenskyy being asked to leave, sparking criticism and concern.

Ukraine’s steel industry, vital to its economy, faces severe challenges as Russia now controls 13 of Ukraine’s 21 coke plants and many of its 150 coal mines since annexing Crimea in 2014. The loss of Azovstal and other plants has cut production, impacting exports and economic recovery. Steelworkers fear territorial concessions could permanently damage the sector. Russia’s control of ports has further strained exports, while potential US tariffs add to the difficulties. A major plant in Zaporizhzhia continues operating despite repeated attacks. The government has no clear plan for reclaiming lost industry. Trump’s stance raises concerns over Ukraine’s territorial future.