Nato

Russian forces carried out large-scale strikes on Kyiv, with reports claiming hits on Ukrainian military hubs and what Moscow describes as NATO specialists present in the country. The claims of foreign casualties have not been independently verified, and Ukrainian officials have not confirmed the extent of the damage. The strikes mark a further escalation in Russia's sustained bombardment of the Ukrainian capital.

Pakistan has carried out strikes inside Afghanistan, according to reports framed around a joint message from Pakistan and Türkiye. The strikes and Ankara's role in the messaging are drawing wide attention, with observers watching for how Kabul responds and whether the two NATO-era partners are signalling a coordinated regional stance. Details on casualties and targets remain limited.

US Senator John Kennedy has spoken out against fellow politicians who, in his view, spend more time promoting themselves than serving the public. The remarks drew attention as part of ongoing debate in Washington about political grandstanding and accountability, with supporters praising the blunt message and critics questioning its timing.

Poland is dramatically increasing its defence budget, making it one of NATO's biggest military spenders relative to economic output. Analysts are debating whether the push will stimulate the economy through industrial investment and jobs, or weigh on growth by crowding out spending on infrastructure, education and public services. The debate matters for Europe's security posture as well as Poland's economic outlook.