Azerbaijan.US External Desk – Latest Worldwide Developments
Russia launches massive overnight attack on Ukraine
Dozens of missiles and drones struck multiple Ukrainian regions, killing at least three people and injuring dozens more. Kyiv reports use of long-range ballistic systems and widespread infrastructure damage. Reuters
Moldova says Russian drones violated its airspace again
Chisinau reports that multiple Russian drones crossed into Moldovan airspace during nighttime attacks on Ukraine, calling it a serious aviation threat. Reuters
Indonesia flood disaster death toll climbs to 303
Cyclone-driven floods and landslides devastated western Sumatra. Hundreds remain missing as emergency teams struggle to reach isolated villages. Reuters
Hong Kong mourns 128 killed in catastrophic high-rise fire
A major apartment-block blaze – the deadliest in decades – killed 128 people. Police arrested 11 individuals linked to illegal reconstruction inside the building. Reuters
Trump declares Venezuelan airspace “closed in entirety”
The announcement triggered confusion among airlines and regional officials. Caracas condemned it as a “colonial provocation.” Reuters
U.S. suspends all visa processing for Afghan allies
The State Department froze all visa categories for Afghans, effectively halting the Special Immigrant Visa program. Human-rights groups called the move “devastating.” Reuters
Worldwide travel disruption after Airbus A320 software recall
Airlines across Asia, the Middle East and Europe cancelled hundreds of flights over a critical navigation-software issue. Reuters
EU discusses new coordinated Russia sanctions package
The EU Council says member states are reviewing measures targeting LNG transshipments, “shadow fleet” vessels, and dual-use electronics. EU Council Press Release
Israel-Lebanon border sees renewed fire exchanges
Artillery and drone strikes continued overnight between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Diplomatic sources warn the situation is “one miscalculation away from escalation.” AP News
Türkiye and Qatar sign new defense cooperation protocol
The agreement expands cooperation on drone development, naval coordination, and joint military training. Anadolu Agency
Russia extends “partial martial measures” in border regions
Local authorities in Belgorod and Kursk expanded movement restrictions following new Ukrainian drone strikes.
Source: RFE/RL
McLaren locks out front row in Qatar GP qualifying
Oscar Piastri takes pole, followed by Lando Norris, with Max Verstappen in third – a key moment in the title fight. Reuters
