Choose a theme above to see every event logged for it since 28 June 2026, newest first.
Iran WarLogged 16 October 2026
The
Houthis continued attacks on Saudi Arabia, killing 13 at its capital’s airport and hitting a building of oil company
Aramco.
Houthi forces are fighting the Saudi-backed army of Yemen and encircled its 3rd-largest city by 15 October.
Ukraine WarLogged 16 October 2026
An “energy ceasefire” was announced by President Trump on his social media on 11 October but no sustained pause followed.
Ukraine reportedly paused strikes on Russian oil
refineries for 3 days but re-started after all 3 of its capital’s heat and power stations were hit.
UKLogged 16 October 2026
The Reform UK party fell to 3rd place in the national voting polls with 21%, behind Labour (24%) and the Conservatives (23%).
This was the first time since 2024 that Reform UK left the top 2.
USLogged 16 October 2026
On 9 October, the US allowed the sales of Russian
diesel fuel, including to the US, until April 2027.
If fully implemented, 10 days’ worth of US diesel demand would be supplied to it by Russia.
ChinaLogged 16 October 2026
China and the EU reached a deal on the imports of Chinese hybrid electric cars to the EU, and a range of other economic issues, including
rare earths, dual-use exports and trade law.
The terms are not yet disclosed, but a quota on imports of hybrid electric cars is reportedly agreed.
GermanyLogged 16 October 2026
In the
Saxony-Anhalt state, the
AfD party joined votes with the left-wing populist
BSW to pass a motion calling for ending military aid to Ukraine and lifting sanctions on Russia.
It also called for an “immediate ceasefire” and a start to peace negotiations, while having no legal effect on the national policy.
TurkiyeLogged 16 October 2026
A government agency took control over a pro-opposition news channel based in Istanbul, Turkiye.
Police raided the channel Halk TV and halted its broadcast, with the state appointing a financial institution to run it as a trustee.
Africa
Logged 16 October 2026
Ethiopian troops reportedly reached the country’s northern border with Eritrea, pushing against Eritrean troops that Ethiopia says entered the country earlier this month.
The outbreak of Ebola virus in DR Congo grew to 9,066 confirmed cases and 4,381 deaths (48% mortality), with 2 cases reported in Kenya.
Europe
Logged 16 October 2026
The EU opened membership talks with both Ukraine and Moldova on 2 more negotiation “clusters” (out of 6): internal market and competitiveness; Ukraine now has 4 of 6 “clusters” open.
Hungary, under its new leadership, lifted its opposition (veto) to this step after Ukraine changed its law on minority-language schools; the EU also unfroze $4.7 billion of Hungary’s funding, suspended in 2022.
Middle East
Logged 16 October 2026
Palestinian President
Mahmoud Abbas delayed the planned legislative and presidential elections in the
West Bank and Gaza from November 2026 and early 2027 respectively to September 2027.
Palestinians have not held a legislative election since 2006.
South America
Logged 16 October 2026
Brazil’s Senate approved a constitutional change to end a 6-day working week.
All workers will be guaranteed 2 rest days with no pay cuts, and the maximum working week would fall from 44 to 40 hours in stages.
Technology
Logged 16 October 2026
The
European Union said on 14 October it had taken its first enforcement actions under the EU’s AI Act.
Anthropic and OpenAI are reportedly being investigated over their agents hacking other organisations.
Oil
Logged 16 October 2026
At least 6 ships were attacked in the
Strait of Hormuz on 11 October, and another ship sank after a strike on 13 October.
Iran War Logged 9 October 2026
Saudi Arabia launched airstrikes to support the Yemeni government forces, which made some territorial gains.
Ukraine War Logged 9 October 2026
Ukraine struck Russia’s largest
oil refinery, already damaged by another strike in July 2026.
In the
Black Sea, a Turkish merchant ship was hit by
air drones and sank near Romania; 2 Turkish-managed ships were struck by sea and air drones near Bulgaria, killing up to 12 sailors.
UK Logged 9 October 2026
The US stopped flying strategic bombers against Iran from a UK base after a suspected plot against the base.
On 27 September, 5 British men were arrested near the RAF Fairford base, and Prime Minister Andy Burnham said Iran was suspected of involvement.
US Logged 9 October 2026
The US government announced 2 cash injections worth $2.3 billion, as
midterm elections approach.
These are $90 for 20 million mostly senior Americans on a specific federal health insurance scheme, and $500 for around 1 million middle-income workers and families who don’t get health insurance at work.
China Logged 9 October 2026
Chinese
fighter jets expelled a Philippine military aircraft from the airspace over a disputed island in the
South China Sea on 3 October.
A day earlier, China’s construction of an airfield on another disputed island was reported based on the latest
satellite images.
FranceLogged 9 October 2026
About 256,000 people marched in a secondary-school student protest across France on 6 October; 891 schools had classes fully or partly suspended.
Police made 6,629 arrests between 28 September and 6 October; 761 police officers, 215 students and 89 staff were injured.
Germany Logged 9 October 2026
An 80-year-old former head of Germany’s foreign intelligence service was arrested on suspicion of spying for a foreign state.
On 6 October, the
AfD won the presidency of a
German state parliament for the first time, in
Saxony-Anhalt, after winning the election there last month.
IndiaLogged 9 October 2026
Nationwide protests demanding the resignation of India’s Chief Election Commissioner led to about 700 detentions in Delhi on 2 October and the detention of some opposition MPs on 6–7 October.
The Gen Z-led Cockroach Janta Party (behind this year’s students’ protests) was the main organiser of the marches.
JapanLogged 9 October 2026
A US Marine was arrested on suspicion of murdering a woman in a hotel in Okinawa, which hosts a US military base that is planned to be moved to a less populated area of the island.
US forces in Okinawa banned alcohol for 48 hours and set a 30-day night curfew on the base.
Africa
Logged 9 October 2026
In Ethiopia, federal forces retook the capital of Tigray from the rebels before neighbouring Eritrea sent some troops across the border.
The Ethiopian army launched drone strikes on Eritrean military vehicles and soldiers in northern Ethiopia, causing some to retreat.
Asia
Logged 9 October 2026
In Pakistan, the party of a jailed ex-prime minister began a march through the country for the release of its leader.
The capital city’s access roads were blocked off by 1,500–2,000 shipping containers to prevent protests, costing the economy over $300 million daily.
Europe
Logged 9 October 2026
On 6 October, Spain’s parliament was dissolved for an early general election on 29 November.
It followed parliament’s rejection of 2 government housing decrees and nationwide housing protests.
Middle East
Logged 9 October 2026
Israel’s Supreme Court overturned bans on the 2 main Arab-led parties running in the 27 October election.
Over 200,000 people have been displaced in Yemen as the war between the Saudi-backed government and the
Houthis escalated.
South America
Logged 9 October 2026
On 4 October, Flávio Bolsonaro received 47% of the votes in the 1st round of Brazil’s presidential election, ahead of President Lula with 45%.
They will meet in a run-off on 25 October; Bolsonaro’s party made larger-than-expected gains to become the largest in the lower house.
Business
Logged 9 October 2026
On 6 October, Skydance completed its takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery, in the 2nd-largest media deal in history, bringing CBS, CNN and HBO under one owner.
Saudi Arabia’s and Qatar’s state funds were among investors in $47 billion of new shares, alongside $52 billion of new debt.
Oil
Logged 9 October 2026
12+ tankers were attacked near
Hormuz in the week to 5 October, the most in any week of the war.
On 2 October the G7 countries agreed to release 100 million barrels of
crude oil and
diesel (equivalent to daily global demand) from emergency stocks over 4 months.
Iran War Logged 2 October 2026
3 oil tankers and another ship were struck in
Hormuz after the US rejected Iran’s proposal for a 7-day ceasefire and a temporary reopening of the strait.
The pause in direct US-Iran strikes reached 3 weeks, but the US reportedly plans to send another aircraft carrier and extra troops to the region.
Ukraine War Logged 2 October 2026
Russia increased the number of its drone strikes on Ukraine to 6,732 in September, up 13% from August, starting its winter campaign against energy targets.
UK Logged 2 October 2026
The UK lowered its tax on household electricity use from 5% to 0% until March 2027.
700 prisoners were released under an expanded early-release scheme covering 5,000 a year, as prisons were 98% full in September 2026.
US Logged 2 October 2026
The US government’s borrowing cost on 10-year bonds reached 5.29%, its highest since 2002.
The
Supreme Court ruled that the state of
Missouri must use its 2022 election district map instead of the 2025 one, which would have given the
Republicans an extra seat in the
House.
China Logged 2 October 2026
China launched its largest economic support package since 2024, aimed at housing and banking.
The package includes subsidies for first-time mortgage buyers of small homes, as well as cheaper lending and extra loans for state development banks.
France Logged 2 October 2026
The French minority government put forward its 2027 budget proposal, with a 5% deficit, as 10-year borrowing costs rose to their highest since 2002.
The Socialist Party did not back the budget, advocating for higher taxes, and threatened to support a no-confidence vote against the government.
Germany Logged 2 October 2026
Germany passed a tax cut on fuel costs (including diesel) of $0.16 per litre, or around 7% of the cost of diesel in September; the package cost $2.8 billion.
Energy prices in Germany were up 14.9% in September 2026, compared with a year earlier.
India Logged 2 October 2026
India recorded its driest
monsoon season in 12 years, with the area sown to summer crops down 1.2% year-on-year and
rice down 3.6%.
East and North-East India had their driest season since 1901, while country-wide rainfall was 12.6% below normal.
Turkiye Logged 2 October 2026
Turkish stocks had their worst month since October 2008, as the BIST 100 index fell 16.7% in September 2026.
A number of investment funds (worth around $21 billion) were suspended in September, and some were ordered to liquidate, after they struggled to repay their clients.
Africa
Logged 2 October 2026
War in Ethiopia entered its second week as the federal government mounted a counter-push on Tigray and a drone reached the Ethiopian capital.
The UAE and Qatar backed the federal government of Ethiopia, which in turn cut diplomatic ties with neighbouring Eritrea, suspected of supporting the rebels.
Asia
Logged 2 October 2026
On 26 September, terrorists attacked a police checkpoint in Pakistan, and on 30 September Pakistan carried out new strikes on Afghanistan.
Europe
Logged 2 October 2026
The president of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, stepped down from his role to run for prime minister in October’s elections.
His second, and last permitted, presidential term was due to expire in May 2027; a new presidential election must be held within 3 months.
Middle East
Logged 2 October 2026
The
Houthis fired missiles at 4 Saudi cities, all reportedly intercepted, as Yemeni government forces counter-attacked the high ground above
Bab el-Mandeb.
838 people have been killed in the conflict since August 2026, with over 3,600 injured and 134,000 displaced.
South America
Logged 2 October 2026
Brazil’s general election campaign closed with the current left-wing president, Lula, leading first-round polls but his right-wing opponent leading run-off polls.
The election will take place on 4 October 2026, with the polls projecting a 1-point margin in the run-off.
Rest of the World
Logged 2 October 2026
Canada announced it would fast-track its proposed east–west
oil pipeline, aimed at reducing dependence on exports to the US.
The oil would be loaded onto tankers and shipped by sea to buyers in Asia; the pipeline’s capacity would equal around 25% of Canada’s current oil exports.
Technology
Logged 2 October 2026
The project aims to build the first fully reusable orbital rocket, with a record payload capacity.
Iran War Logged 25 September 2026
US sanctions against Iranian airlines cut off their flights to Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkmenistan, the UAE, and partially to other countries like Iraq, Oman and Qatar.
US and Iranian negotiators met for the first time since 1 September, after a 2-week pause in direct strikes, as Houthi attacks continued.
Ukraine War Logged 25 September 2026
No results were produced by the negotiations over a potential energy truce (a mutual pause in Russian and Ukrainian strikes on energy/oil infrastructure).
A deal to pause strikes on
grain shipments was also discussed but not agreed.
UK Logged 25 September 2026
Under US pressure, the UK said it cannot proceed with the deal to give control over the Chagos Islands (Britain’s last African colony) to Mauritius.
A tanker-plane was sent to support Saudi Arabia’s operations against the
Houthis, in the UK’s first direct military support to Saudi Arabia during the
Iran War.
US Logged 25 September 2026
US
diesel prices reached an all-time high of $6.53 a gallon, up 74% this year.
President Trump signed the bill that allows tariffs of up to 100% on the 5 largest buyers of Russian oil and gas (which include China and India), at the president’s discretion.
China Logged 25 September 2026
Xi Jinping made the first Chinese state visit to the US since 2015, meeting Trump on 24 September, with no formal agreements.
The US announced that the US-China
tariff war truce was extended by 2 months, to 10 January 2027.
France Logged 25 September 2026
France extended its fuel aid programme by $512 million to $1.85 billion since the start of the
war in Iran, with
diesel at €2.40 per litre ($10.50 per US gallon).
The government is looking to agree a budget for 2027 without a majority in parliament.
Germany Logged 25 September 2026
On 20 September, the nationalist
AfD party won the regional elections in
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and leads the national polls at 29%.
The governing centre-right CDU party lost all its seats in that same region, and some of its seats in Berlin to the left-wing Die Linke.
Japan Logged 25 September 2026
The cost of government borrowing (bond yields) reached 3% per year on 10-year bonds, the highest since 1996, while the government increased its borrowing.
The central bank raised the interest rate to 1.25%, the highest since 1995, facing inflation and a weak
currency, which would further raise bond yields.
Africa
Logged 25 September 2026
War re-started in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, where local forces seized 3 airports and clashed with federal troops, ending 4 years of peace.
Ethiopia is Africa’s second-largest country by
population, and the previous war in the region killed an estimated 600,000 people.
Asia
Logged 25 September 2026
The strikes followed an 18 September attack on a police compound in Pakistan that killed at least 21 people.
Europe
Logged 25 September 2026
On 22 September, the US, Denmark and
Greenland signed a defence deal allowing 2 new US military areas.
On 23 September, Italy’s Senate passed a law for a return to nuclear power, ended by a 1987 referendum.
South America
Logged 25 September 2026
Argentina took a harsher stance towards the Falkland Islands (a self-governing British territory which the two fought over in 1982 and which Argentina claims).
An Argentine court paused an oil project in the islands’ waters, and the government announced sanctions against companies working on projects in Falkland waters.
Rest of the World
Logged 25 September 2026
On 18 September, Costa Rica’s
Rebeca Grynspan led the
UN Security Council’s poll for the next Secretary-General.
Cuba’s national power grid collapsed on 18 September for the 8th time in 2026.
Technology
Logged 25 September 2026
Australia said an OpenAI agent accessed non-public files on a government Medicare website on 18 June.
Google confirmed its AI model broke into 3 real companies’ systems during a security test in May, in a series of similar incidents from top US
AI labs.
Oil
Logged 25 September 2026
The oil went to Saudi west coast
refineries, with no loadings at the
Red Sea terminals as of 24 September.
Ukraine War Logged 18 September 2026
Ukraine continued
drone and missile strikes on Russian
oil refineries, causing record-high global prices for
diesel and other oil products.
Around 25–50% of Russian refining capacity was taken offline by the
Ukrainian campaign, with a successful hit every 3 days in 2026 so far on average.
UK Logged 18 September 2026
The UK government declared the Israeli occupation of the
West Bank unlawful and imposed sanctions on individuals and firms supporting the expansion of
illegal settlements.
The sanctions were launched alongside Canada and France; the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and its settlements there are illegal under international law.
US Logged 18 September 2026
The central bank (Federal Reserve) voted 12–0 to raise the interest rate (cost of lending money) by 0.25%, the first increase since 2023, because of growing inflation.
China Logged 18 September 2026
China opened a $10 billion river-to-sea waterway that cuts transport costs between south-west China and South East Asia by 18–30%.
France Logged 18 September 2026
The French government dropped its target for a 5% budget deficit this year, now aiming for 5.4%, while the state’s 10-year borrowing cost reached the highest level since 2008.
The government is looking to agree a budget for 2027 without a majority in parliament.
Germany Logged 18 September 2026
On 6 September, the nationalist
AfD party won the regional elections in
Saxony-Anhalt (east Germany) and leads the national polls at 29%.
The governing centre-right CDU party was second in that same poll, at 18%, prompting it to schedule a series of leadership meetings for later this month.
India Logged 18 September 2026
The 18th summit of
BRICS, hosted by
India, issued a joint statement that was also signed by both Iran and the UAE, which are on opposite sides of the
Iran War.
The statement called for a greater role for Brazil and India at the
United Nations, greater use of national currencies in trade, and more.
Turkiye Logged 18 September 2026
A number of investment funds (worth around $21 billion) were suspended, and some were ordered to liquidate, after they struggled to repay their clients.
The funds focused on assets that are rarely traded on the market, and a recent change in the regulations of such assets decreased their prices.
Africa
Logged 18 September 2026
The latest outbreak of Ebola virus in DR Congo grew to 7,258 confirmed cases and 3,510 deaths (a mortality rate of 48%).
It spread to a 7th province of the country and is on track to exceed the 28,610 cases of the 2014–16 West African epidemic.
Asia
Logged 18 September 2026
Indonesia replaced its finance minister for the 2nd time since October 2024, after the country’s credit outlook fell from “stable” to “negative” according to 2 of the 3 main rating agencies.
The previous finance minister supported the president’s aggressive
economic growth promises by injecting extra money into commercial banks.
Europe
Logged 18 September 2026
In Sweden, the centre-left opposition bloc narrowly defeated the ruling right-wing bloc (176 to 173 seats), and the prime minister resigned.
The ruling bloc was supported by the anti-immigration SD party, whose members were promised cabinet jobs in the event of a victory.
Middle East
Logged 18 September 2026
Israel tripled the size of its E1 settlement plan east of Jerusalem with tenders for building 3,400 homes.
In Yemen, over 100,000 people were displaced as the
Houthi militants advanced by land along the west coast of the country to capture land next to
Bab el-Mandeb.
Rest of the World
Logged 18 September 2026
Canada applied to join a UK-led “rapid-response” military force and agreed to merge its proposed defence bank with the UK’s.
The same week, Canada was invited to join the
European Union as its first “associate member”, while US-Canada and US-EU tensions grew.
Technology
Logged 18 September 2026
Leading US AI labs disclosed a series of incidents where groups of AI agents hacked their learning environments and external organisations, amid debates on AI regulation.
Donald Trump criticised the calls for AI regulation and the opposition to building data centres.
Oil
Logged 18 September 2026
The
Saudi pipeline that allowed some
oil to bypass
Hormuz has stayed shut since an 11 September strike by
Iran-backed militants.
The pipeline carried around 4% of the world’s crude oil, the prices for which jumped above $100 per barrel again as the
war in Iran continues.
Iran War Logged 12 September 2026
Iran attacked more commercial ships in the
Strait of Hormuz and a US base in Jordan; the US struck Iranian oil infrastructure and tankers.
Iran-backed
Houthis captured land along the
Bab el-Mandeb from the Saudi-backed government of Yemen.
Oil
Logged 12 September 2026
Crude oil prices jumped above $100 per barrel again, as the Saudi-Houthi conflict intensified.
Iran War Logged 3 September 2026
The US struck around 100 targets in Iran on 1 September in response to Iran attacking ships in
Hormuz, ending a month-long pause.
Iran responded by attacking US bases in Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan and Kuwait.
Ukraine War Logged 3 September 2026
Mutual strikes stopped most of both Russia’s and Ukraine’s Black Sea shipping, as 2 Turkish commercial ships were also struck by Ukrainian sea drones in August.
A third of the world’s
grain is exported through the
Black Sea, and global food prices grew by 2% in August.
UK Logged 3 September 2026
Small boat arrivals across the English Channel have slowed to 48% below summer 2025 totals, as Labour closed the gap on Reform in public opinion polls.
Fewer crossings were partly attributed to increased policing on the French side, and partly to the weather conditions of the hottest summer on record.
US Logged 3 September 2026
The House and the Senate approved a law to delay the next federal budget to December, avoiding a potential
shutdown before
mid-term elections.
The US put up a 50% tariff on $20 billion (5.5%) of its trade with Canada, answered by a 15–50% rate on $20 billion of US exports to Canada.
China Logged 3 September 2026
China tightened regulations on pre-sales of unbuilt houses and the financing of construction and mortgages.
Stalled housing projects have contributed to an economic slowdown since 2021 and strained the construction and banking sectors in China.
France Logged 3 September 2026
France’s economy did not grow in the first half of 2026, and its 10-year borrowing cost reached 4.24% on 2 September.
The French government, without a parliamentary majority, has struggled with a growing debt-to-
GDP ratio of 110%.
Germany Logged 3 September 2026
On 1 September, Germany officially attributed an earlier failed drone attack on Ukrainian military planes at a German airport to Russia.
The same day, explosives were found at a power plant substation, and another substation was deliberately short-circuited.
India Logged 3 September 2026
The Supreme Court ended all police cases related to the youth exam protest movement, which called off its planned 5 September march in exchange.
The movement started with protests over the undergraduate exam system and gathered broad support, especially among Gen Z Indians.
Japan Logged 3 September 2026
The cost of government borrowing (bond yields) reached 3% per year on 10-year bonds, the highest since 1996, while the government increased its borrowing.
The growing inflation and weak
currency applied pressure to increase interest rates, which would further raise yields.
Turkiye Logged 3 September 2026
Turkiye summoned Ukraine’s ambassador to the Foreign Ministry over 2 Turkish container ships struck by sea drones in the Black Sea.
A framework law to progress the
Turkiye-PKK deal was signed on 17 August but further rulings are awaited.
Africa
Logged 3 September 2026
In the
Sahel, Niger’s ruling military
junta put down a 24-hour mutiny starting at a military base, with the help of Russia’s
Africa Corps (also stationed at this base).
The mutiny spread to the presidential palace and the state TV broadcaster before being contained.
Asia
Logged 3 September 2026
A flood in Nepal killed at least 1,252 people as 4,216 remained missing by 3 September, including 900 workers building underground tunnels for hydropower projects.
The flood was started by an ice-rock avalanche caused by high temperatures this summer.
Europe
Logged 3 September 2026
Higher energy costs pushed euro-area inflation to 3.3% and government bond yields to their highest since 2011; the European Central Bank’s next interest rate decision comes on 11 September.
Middle East
Logged 3 September 2026
Israel captured Hamas’ head of internal security after a series of strikes that killed Hamas and Islamic Jihad commanders in late August.
South America
Logged 3 September 2026
Venezuela handed 100-year rights over 20% of its known oil reserves to a private firm in which the US government takes a 35% stake.
The 17 oilfields represent 65 billion barrels of mostly extra-heavy and sour
crude oil, which is a larger volume than the US’s total known reserves.
Rest of the World
Logged 3 September 2026
After the election of a new president (49.66% to 48.70% in the 2nd round), Colombia intensified its military campaign against armed groups and drug cartels.
Security forces carried out over 12,000 arrests, seized 38 tonnes of
cocaine (Colombia grows 65% of the world’s cocaine), and launched airstrikes that killed over 30 people.
Technology
Logged 3 September 2026
3 leading US
AI labs (Anthropic, Google and OpenAI) have all released their latest models, with
cyber-capabilities limited to a group of partners and US government entities.
This came after a series of incidents when AI models in training engaged in unexpected hacking.
Business
Logged 3 September 2026
Government bond yields (the rate investors earn per year on state debt) reached multi-decade highs in the US, the UK, the EU and Japan.
The
Iran War, rising inflation and spending, as well as competition from AI-driven corporate bond issuance are among the causes.
Climate
Logged 3 September 2026
The El Niño effect over the tropical Pacific Ocean further intensified, predicted to be the strongest on record and to last until February 2027.
The El Niño increases global temperatures for about a year and changes where the rain falls, especially in the Americas and Pacific Asia.
Oil
Logged 3 September 2026
The 26 August framework deal to re-open
Hormuz was not implemented, but
Red Sea shipping was near-normal with 1 strike on tankers in the last 2 weeks.
Iran War Logged 14 August 2026
The
Strait of Hormuz stayed closed and the US blockade of Iran continued, as the
Houthis struck ships in the
Red Sea and Saudi oil infrastructure.
Iran’s Supreme Leader announced new commanders for the country’s various military forces.
Ukraine War Logged 14 August 2026
Ukraine attacked Russia’s grain loading terminals in the
Black Sea, causing a spike in
global food prices.
In July, Ukraine had to stop its grain shipments through the Black Sea after Russia’s strikes on ships and the port of Odesa.
UK Logged 14 August 2026
The next budget announcement was set for October 2026, as the government looks to find funding for already-made promises, including a part of a £15 billion rise in defence spending.
The new Prime Minister
Andy Burnham inherited a slow-growing economy with above-target inflation, pushed up by the
war in Iran.
US Logged 14 August 2026
The US authorised private companies to prepare and propose
cyber-attacks against foreign criminal networks, with government oversight.
US politics are approaching the November mid-term elections with
Republicans defending narrow majorities in both chambers of parliament.
Japan Logged 14 August 2026
The US and Japan coordinated to buy the Japanese
currency yen, but its rate to the dollar remained near a 40-year low.
The low currency value has increased inflation in Japan through the higher cost of imports, pressuring the central bank to raise interest rates despite growing debt and spending.
Africa
Logged 14 August 2026
The latest outbreak of Ebola virus in DR Congo grew to 4,381 confirmed cases and 2,011 deaths (a mortality rate of 46%).
It became the 2nd largest Ebola outbreak in history, on track to exceed the 28,610 cases during the 2014–16 West African epidemic.
Asia
Logged 14 August 2026
Taiwan reported the first
cyber-attack on a government run end-to-end by an AI agent, which took place in July.
The attack reached Taiwan’s nuclear safety agency and 7 energy companies.
Europe
Logged 14 August 2026
Europe faced drought and record heat, as low water closed some nuclear stations across the continent, including in France, Romania and Slovenia.
Repeated heatwaves in 2026 caused thousands of excess deaths and some of the largest wildfires on record.
Middle East
Logged 14 August 2026
A NATO-style mutual-defence treaty was signed between Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan.
Turkiye, a NATO member, and Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation, both entered a collective-defence obligation with the region’s largest economy and a top-3
crude oil producer.
South America
Logged 14 August 2026
Colombia was hit by an earthquake (magnitude 7.4) on 10 August, killing at least 265 people.
The cost of reconstruction was estimated at 1% of the country’s
GDP.
Oil
Logged 14 August 2026
US-Iran negotiations failed to produce a deal and the
Houthi attacks on ships in the
Red Sea continued;
refining costs neared record levels.
No oil was loaded for export in Iran in August, and only humanitarian ships sailed into the Persian Gulf.
Iran War Logged 11 August 2026
Iran struck a UAE tanker in the
Strait of Hormuz and
Houthi rebels attacked a Saudi
refinery as negotiations with the US looked unlikely to produce a long-term deal soon.
No oil was loaded for export in Iran in August, and only humanitarian ships sailed into the Persian Gulf.
Oil
Logged 11 August 2026
Oil prices fluctuated at high levels as US-Iran negotiations produced mixed signals, with
refining costs near record levels.
The margin between the costs of crude oil and oil products grew.
Iran War Logged 6 August 2026
The US did not strike Iran for a week, and a short-term deal over re-opening
Hormuz was reported to be close to agreement.
The deal could give Iran control over incoming shipping, while outgoing traffic would pass through Omani waters.
Ukraine War Logged 6 August 2026
Ukraine intercepted 2 out of 51 ballistic missiles fired at it by Russia in the first two attacks of August, as
air defence interceptor stocks ran low.
Ukraine has so far failed to agree additional shipments of interceptor missiles for the US-made Patriot system.
UK Logged 6 August 2026
The next budget announcement was set for October 2026, as the government looks to find funding for already-made promises.
Around £5 billion out of the promised £15 billion rise in defence spending remains unfunded, as inflation was projected to remain above 3% until the 3rd quarter of 2027 due to the
Iran War.
US Logged 6 August 2026
25 states started a legal appeal against the Trump administration’s new
Section 301 tariffs that replaced the earlier tariff regime struck down by the
Supreme Court.
The new tariffs cover over 99% of US imports, charging 12.5% on goods from countries that were deemed not to ban forced labour, and 10% on the rest.
China Logged 6 August 2026
China introduced 5 new trade restrictions against the US, including export controls on
drones and drone components.
This came after the US introduced export controls against Chinese 4-legged robots and banned 43 more Chinese companies from selling to the US.
Germany Logged 6 August 2026
Low water levels in the river Rhine put more strain on Germany’s industrial sector, as some factories along the river corridor slowed production.
The sector has also faced pressure from the loss of cheap Russian gas, competition from Chinese firms, US tariffs and the
war in Iran.
India Logged 6 August 2026
India’s central bank held interest rates at 5.25% and raised its 2026–27 growth forecast to 6.7%.
India is looking to keep its
economic growth at around 7% per year while importing 90% of its oil through the war-affected
Red Sea, mostly from Russia.
Japan Logged 6 August 2026
The US and Japan coordinated to buy the Japanese
currency yen, pushing its price up from a 40-year low.
The low currency value has increased inflation in Japan through the higher cost of imports, pressuring the central bank to raise interest rates despite growing debt.
Africa
Logged 6 August 2026
The latest outbreak of Ebola virus in DR Congo grew to 3,874 confirmed cases and 1,751 deaths (a mortality rate of 45%).
It became the 2nd largest Ebola outbreak in history, behind the 28,610 cases during the 2014–16 West African epidemic.
Middle East
Logged 6 August 2026
The US-led
Gaza Board of Peace and
Hamas signed a multi-stage disarmament agreement, but Israel did not join.
South America
Logged 6 August 2026
The US-Brazilian tariff dispute escalated as the US revoked the visa of the Brazilian ambassador.
The combined 37.5% tariff on over $35 billion of exports to the US has put pressure on the Brazilian economy and forced a delay in some planned reforms.
Oil
Logged 6 August 2026
Oil prices cooled on prospects of a US-Iran deal over re-opening Hormuz, as oil refining and fuel costs neared all-time records.
Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the
Bab el-Mandeb continued and traffic in the strait fell.
Iran War Logged 30 July 2026
The US carried out new strikes on Iran, and
Saudi Arabia struck Iraq-based militants.
The Iran-backed militants in Iraq previously fired
drones at Saudi Arabia and US bases in the region.
Ukraine War Logged 30 July 2026
Both sides continued missile and drone strikes on each other’s critical infrastructure.
Ukraine targeted
oil refineries, e-commerce warehouses and
Azov Sea shipping; Russia struck Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, cities and other targets.
US Logged 30 July 2026
The stock of Patriot missiles is below 1,000 and the stock of THAADs at around 250.
China Logged 30 July 2026
This was first reported by Reuters and later denied by China.
France Logged 30 July 2026
The French government, without a parliamentary majority, is struggling to reduce a deficit of over 5% and bring a debt-to-
GDP ratio down from 110%.
The EU’s soft limit for a budget deficit is 3%.
Germany Logged 30 July 2026
The Pride parade in Berlin was attacked by a terrorist who rammed a car into people, killing 1 and injuring 30.
The ISIS-linked attacker was shot by the police; he had been listed as dangerous for planning another attack earlier but was released from custody.
India Logged 30 July 2026
The education minister resigned over youth protests against a poorly managed exam system.
The Supreme Court cracked down on the police for violence against the protesters, ordering counter-measures and the release of those detained.
Japan Logged 30 July 2026
Japan’s Kumamoto region was hit by a strong earthquake with at least 14 reported dead.
The earthquake had the highest rating on the Japanese seismic scale and caused the evacuation of around 10,000 people.
Africa
Logged 30 July 2026
The city and its 500,000 citizens had already been under a 22-month RSF siege in 2023–25.
Asia
Logged 30 July 2026
The South Korean
Kospi stock market index, heavily influenced by
microchips, is down 44% from the June peak.
Some investors grew concerned over a potential wider sell-off in AI-related stocks.
Europe
Logged 30 July 2026
A heatwave is causing drought and wildfires in Europe.
Romania’s only nuclear power plant shut down due to low water in the Danube river; Spain and France were fighting record-level wildfires.
South America
Logged 30 July 2026
Brazil recalled its ambassador to Argentina after Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, campaigned for a right-leaning Brazilian presidential candidate.
The candidate is the son of the former president, Jair Bolsonaro, who was placed under house arrest.
Technology
Logged 30 July 2026
China reportedly started the production of
DUV lithography machines, critical for
high-end microchips.
Previously this technology was believed to be unique to the Netherlands-based firm ASML.
Business
Logged 30 July 2026
China’s leading
chipmaker became the most valuable company on the country’s stock exchange on the 1st day of trading.
Investors’ AI-related concerns grew as insurance against NVIDIA and Google failing on their debts became more expensive.
Oil
Logged 30 July 2026
Oil refining costs reached all-time records as global capacity and infrastructure continued to be strained.
The short-term fall in the price of crude oil ended after US-Iran fighting restarted.
Iran War Logged 27 July 2026
The US and Iran agreed a pause in fighting after US bombing stopped on 25 and 26 July.
On 26 July, shortly before Iran announced it agreed to a pause, the
Houthis attacked a Saudi oil facility with missiles, at least some were
intercepted.
Oil
Logged 27 July 2026
Prices cooled down as the US and Iran agreed a pause in strikes; oil product prices climbed as refining remains strained.
Ukraine’s drone strikes stopped a
Black Sea terminal shipping 80% of Kazakhstan’s exports, prompting President
Tokayev to address
Vladimir Putin about ending the war in Ukraine.
Iran War Logged 24 July 2026
Iran-backed
Houthis attacked commercial ships in the Red Sea, threatening another
chokepoint:
Bab el-Mandeb.
The US continued daily bombing of Iran and its blockade of Iranian ports; Iran attacked US-linked targets in the Middle East and ships in the
Strait of Hormuz.
US Logged 24 July 2026
Donald Trump’s temporary 10% tariff on all imports expired this week, replaced by 10–12.5% tariffs on 60 countries, accounting for almost all US imports.
The courts previously struck down most of
Trump’s tariffs and the administration has been looking for a new legal basis for implementing them.
Turkiye Logged 24 July 2026
A new party split away from the heavily pressured main opposition party (CHP), with 91 of its 135 parliament members joining.
The Turkish government continued its crackdown on the CHP with arrests and legal pressure, as it lost its status as the largest opposition party.
Oil
Logged 24 July 2026
Oil prices reached $100 over US–Iran escalation and the closure of
Hormuz, as Iran-backed
Houthis attacked commercial ships in the
Bab el-Mandeb chokepoint.
Crude oil loading was stopped at a terminal responsible for 1.5% of global supply after
Ukrainian drone strikes in the Black Sea.
Ukraine War Logged 23 July 2026
Both sides exchanged heavy missile and
drone strikes, as Ukraine
targeted oil infrastructure, e-commerce warehouses and
Azov Sea shipping, while Russia attacked
Kyiv and other targets.
Ukraine’s president faced protests over the controversial sacking of the defence minister, partly over his conflict with the top general, who has now also been sacked.
UK Logged 23 July 2026
Andy Burnham became the new prime minister and put together his cabinet, with its first meeting focused on the “cost-of-living agenda”.
In an unexpected move, John Healey, a veteran centre-left politician and ex-defence chief, was appointed as finance minister (chancellor).
Turkiye Logged 23 July 2026
A new party broke away from the heavily pressured main opposition party, with 80–90 of its 135 parliament members preparing to switch.
The Turkish government continued its crackdown on the main opposition party with arrests and legal pressure.
Technology
Logged 23 July 2026
A US court approved a $1.5 billion copyright settlement against the AI lab Anthropic.
The settlement covers 500,000 pirated books the maker of Claude downloaded from the LibGen and PiLiMi shadow libraries.
Oil
Logged 23 July 2026
Oil prices continued to rise over US–Iran fighting and the closure of
Hormuz, as Iran-backed
Houthis announced a “blockade” of
Bab el-Mandeb.
Brent neared $100 per barrel, up around 25% on the month.
Iran War Logged 21 July 2026
The US continued daily bombing of Iran and its blockade of Iranian ports for the second week, after negotiations failed.
Iran attacked US-linked targets in the Middle East and killed 3 US soldiers, taking the total lost in this war to 17; strikes on ships in the
Strait of Hormuz continued.
Ukraine War Logged 21 July 2026
Both sides exchanged heavy strikes with missiles and
drones, as Ukraine
targeted oil infrastructure, e-commerce warehouses and
Azov Sea shipping, while Russia attacked
Kyiv.
Ukraine’s president Zelensky faced protests over the controversial sacking of the defence minister, partly because of tensions with the top general.
UK Logged 21 July 2026
Andy Burnham became the new prime minister and began putting together his cabinet.
In an unexpected move, he appointed John Healey, a veteran centre-left politician and ex-defence chief, as finance minister (chancellor).
Germany Logged 21 July 2026
The leader of the CDU/CSU parties resigned after a scandal over his surrogate child born in the US.
The practice is banned in Germany, although raising a surrogate child is not illegal, but the CDU/CSU bloc campaigns against surrogacy.
India Logged 21 July 2026
A free trade agreement between the UK and India, signed in 2025, came into effect.
Over 97% of Indian products are now imported duty-free, while India cut tariffs on major British exports like whisky, cars and cosmetics.
Asia
Logged 21 July 2026
In the
South China Sea, a China Coast Guard boat crew clashed with Philippine Navy sailors, injuring one with a wooden baton.
The summit of ASEAN, the bloc of Southeast Asian countries, began this week in the Philippines, with Marco Rubio visiting.
Europe
Logged 21 July 2026
Hungary removed its Orban-era president as the political transition continues.
This came after the new ruling party passed a constitutional change through parliament that allows the unseating of a set of old-regime loyalists.
Middle East
Logged 21 July 2026
Israeli parliament ended its term, setting a new election for 27 October, as the Netanyahu-led bloc seeks re-election.
The parliament (Knesset) passed a series of laws in its final days, including on more government control over media, reduced power of the Attorney General, extended military service and constitutional protections for religious studies.
South America
Logged 21 July 2026
The US set a 25%
tariff on most imports from Brazil, effective 22 July.
Brazil is the largest economy of the region and the US is its second-largest trading partner (after China), especially in
food.
Rest of the World
Logged 21 July 2026
Cuba’s energy and economic crisis deepened, as around half of the island has no electricity during peak demand.
The country’s
GDP is expected to fall by over 6% this year, as the US continued its diplomatic pressure.
Business
Logged 21 July 2026
Stocks of global chipmakers and tech giants declined, with the Nasdaq down 3% on the week and the PHLX semiconductor index down 20% from its June peak.
South Korea’s chip-heavy exchange index was also down 20% from its peak, though still up 70% in 2026.
Oil
Logged 21 July 2026
Oil prices continued to rise over US–Iran fighting and the closure of
Hormuz, as Iran-backed
Houthis announced a “blockade” of
Bab el-Mandeb.
Brent neared $90 per barrel, up 5% on the week and 11% on the month.
International (retired)
Logged 21 July 2026
The 2026 football World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the US ended last week with Spain beating Argentina 1–0 in the final.
England won 3rd place, beating France 6–4 in the bronze medal match.
Iran War Logged 13 July 2026
Iran continued attacks on ships in the
Strait of Hormuz and targets in Bahrain, Jordan, UAE, Oman and Qatar.
The US carried out over 300 strikes on Iran last week, as negotiations over re-opening the Strait, frozen funds, nuclear and missile programmes and proxies broke down again.
Ukraine War Logged 13 July 2026
Naval drones were also used against Russian
shadow fleet oil tankers, as
strikes on refineries have caused a fuel crisis in Russia.
China Logged 13 July 2026
China successfully landed a
space rocket booster on a sea platform, becoming the 2nd nation to do so.
This was a step towards reducing the cost of orbital launches.
Germany Logged 13 July 2026
Germany bought out a 40% share of KNDS, maker of the Leopard 2 tank, from the Wegmann family.
The country would have equal shares with France, with the remaining 20% owned by institutions.
India Logged 13 July 2026
India’s imports of Russian
crude oil reached a record level in June at $5.1 billion, up 34% on the month.
India refines crude oil into petroleum products and last week began exporting some to Russia because of the fuel crisis.
Japan Logged 13 July 2026
The Japanese government continued struggling with the rising cost of servicing its debt (one of the largest at 237% of
GDP).
As inflation grew, the central bank has been looking to raise interest rates, which would increase the cost of debt, while the prime minister is planning to increase borrowing further.
Turkiye Logged 13 July 2026
The Turkish government continued its crackdown on the main opposition party with arrests and legal pressure.
The party is effectively dismantled and its leadership is on trial for corruption and running a criminal organisation.
Africa
Logged 13 July 2026
Sudan’s RSF continued its siege of
El Obeid, an army stronghold.
Around 500,000 civilians are trapped in the city as the US, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE try to negotiate a truce in a conflict that displaced over 13 million people.
Asia
Logged 13 July 2026
ASEAN, the political bloc of Southeast Asian nations, held its first foreign-minister meeting with
Myanmar’s junta.
This was the highest-level diplomatic engagement with the government of Myanmar since it took power in a coup in 2021.
South America
Logged 13 July 2026
Oil
Logged 13 July 2026
Closure of
Hormuz,
drone strikes on tankers, US airstrikes and sanctions on Iran pushed oil prices higher.
Previously, the market was recovering well from the
Iran War price shock, especially as the US and
OPEC+ increased their output.
Ukraine War Logged 9 July 2026
Most regions of Russia are facing restrictions on fuel sales because of the supply crisis.
Europe
Logged 9 July 2026
Anti-government protests in Albania continued into their second month.
The “Flamingo Revolution” began as a protest over a luxury resort project linked to Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and demands the prime minister’s removal and a constitutional change.
Middle East
Logged 9 July 2026
French president
Emmanuel Macron visited the capital of Syria on 6–7 July, the first EU leader to do so since the
fall of Assad.
Two bombings happened in the city during the visit, one near Macron’s hotel and another near the Ministry of Tourism, killing 1 and wounding 36.
South America
Logged 9 July 2026
Colombia’s presidential transition turned into a constitutional crisis.
The president-elect and the outgoing government have suspended the transition of power, as the new president is due to be inaugurated on 7 August.
Business
Logged 9 July 2026
SK Hynix, a South Korean
microchip company, is preparing for the world’s second-largest share offering, at $28 billion.
The first day of trading on the US Nasdaq exchange is set for 10 July.
Iran War Logged 8 July 2026 (run 2)
US-Iran fighting re-started after Iran struck 3 oil tankers in the
Strait of Hormuz on 7 July.
The US struck targets including an oil export terminal on
Kharg Island and Iran targeted US bases in the Middle East with
drones.
Oil
Logged 8 July 2026 (run 2)
The US re-introduced sanctions against Iranian oil and struck Kharg Island where Iran's central export terminal for oil is.
Oil rose by over 10% and entered "High" price regime after US-Iran fighting re-started on 7 July.
Iran War Logged 8 July 2026 (run 1)
The US carried out new strikes on Iran after it attacked tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, ending a pause in fighting.
The US restored sanctions on Iranian oil.
Oil
Logged 8 July 2026 (run 1)
Sanctions on Iranian oil were re-introduced and the US carried out new strikes after Iran attacked tankers in Hormuz.
The oil price increased by over 5% since 7 July.
Iran War Logged 7 July 2026
3 tankers were struck by Iran’s
drones in the Strait of Hormuz, ending a pause in US-Iran fighting.
The funeral of the killed Supreme Leader is expected to continue until 9 July.
Ukraine War Logged 7 July 2026
Ukrainian naval drones struck 8 Russian “shadow fleet” tankers in the Sea of Azov.
France Logged 7 July 2026
Marine Le Pen, the leader of the main right-wing populist party in France, was allowed by the court to run in the 2027 presidential election.
Her conviction for misusing European Union funds was kept in place but the ban from public office was shortened.
South America
Logged 7 July 2026
Venezuela’s 24 June earthquake death toll rose to over 3,500, with over 16,700 injured.
Around 60,000 buildings were damaged or destroyed.
Oil
Logged 7 July 2026
As Iran attacked ships in the Strait of Hormuz again on 7 July, the oil price rose over 4% on the day.
Donald Trump threatened to restart the war if no deal is reached.
Turkiye Logged 6 July 2026
A mass-corruption trial of over 400 defendants, including Turkiye’s main opposition politician, is set to close on 9 July.
The same week, Turkiye is hosting the NATO summit, with country leaders, including Donald Trump, expected to attend.
Oil
Logged 6 July 2026
OPEC+ approved a 5th straight monthly increase in oil output, as global supply grows.
This month’s increase was 188,000 b/d (or 0.5% of total OPEC+ supply); next meeting on 2 August.
International (retired)
Logged 6 July 2026
The World Bank promoted Vietnam, the Philippines and Sri Lanka to upper-middle-income status, based on the latest data.
On 30 June, the United Nations ended a 75-year-old budget rule, saving $1.5 billion a year.
Iran War Logged 4 July 2026
Negotiations and strikes both paused as Iran holds a week-long funeral for its killed Supreme Leader.
The US and Iran held indirect talks in Qatar with no specific progress or a date for the next meeting.
India Logged 4 July 2026
Japan and India held an annual summit with 16 points agreed, including a joint defence project.
Issues included critical minerals,
microchips and strategic oil reserves.
Europe
Logged 4 July 2026
The EU’s top court finalised the decision to fine Google €4.1 billion.
The case focused on Google requiring all Android phone makers to pre-install Google Search and the browser Chrome.
Ukraine War Logged 3 July 2026
Russia began importing fuel, as
Ukrainian drone strikes are causing a supply crisis in multiple regions across the country.
Delivery of oil products from India, Kazakhstan and Belarus was agreed on 1–2 July.
Germany Logged 3 July 2026
German coalition government presented a reform package including income tax, pensions, labour laws.
Retirement age lifted beyond 67 after 2031, linked to life expectancy; €10 billion income tax relief for low- and middle-earners, a 2% rise for incomes over €280,000.
Japan Logged 3 July 2026
Japanese government hinted it could sell
foreign currency to boost the
yen, causing a 1% rebound from an all-time low.
The Japanese economy is facing a combined problem of high debt, low currency value and rising import costs.
Middle East
Logged 3 July 2026
Iraq set a 30 September deadline for all pro-Iran militant groups in the country to disarm.
This happened as 46 officials, including 12 members of parliament, were arrested in a corruption crackdown targeting Iranian influence.
International (retired)
Logged 3 July 2026
On 30 June, the United Nations ended a 75-year-old budget rule, saving $1.5 billion a year.
Under the rule, unspent assessed contributions were credited back to member states even when the cash had never arrived.
Iran War Logged 2 July 2026
US and Iran held indirect talks in Qatar with no specific progress, as a pause in strikes continues.
The funeral of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s killed Supreme Leader, is planned for 4–9 July and needs a pause in strikes to go ahead safely.
Ukraine War Logged 2 July 2026
Russia introduced fuel import subsidies, as
Ukrainian drone strikes are causing a supply crisis in multiple regions across the country.
On 1 July a refinery 1,300 km inside Russia was struck, as country-wide output is down 20% on the year.
Germany Logged 2 July 2026
German coalition government agreed on a large reform package to stimulate the economy.
It includes a decrease in tax on low and middle incomes, as well as measures on pensions, healthcare and bureaucracy; details expected today.
Asia
Logged 2 July 2026
Afghan Taliban carried out its first open cross-border drone strikes against Pakistan.
The Afghanistan-based group has been at the centre of a low-intensity conflict since February.
South America
Logged 2 July 2026
Venezuela’s 24 June earthquake death toll rose to over 2,200, with over 11,200 injured.
Around 50,000 people are still unaccounted for, as rescue operations continue.
Oil
Logged 2 July 2026
Oil price fell around 25% in June, erasing the spike past $100 caused by the start of the
Iran War, with US production at an all-time high.
This was the sharpest monthly drop in oil price since the pandemic (March 2020).
Iran War Logged 1 July 2026
US and Iranian negotiators arrived in Qatar, both meeting with Qatari mediators with no direct talks.
Discussion focused on realising the 17 June deal on Hormuz opening and Iranian frozen funds.
Ukraine War Logged 1 July 2026
Vladimir Putin openly acknowledged problems with fuel supply as over 50 regions face restrictions.
US Logged 1 July 2026
US Supreme Court ruled on a number of key political and "culture wars" issues.
China Logged 1 July 2026
A Politburo member, an ex-financial regulator and 6 generals removed from the National People's Congress.
This was one of the largest high-level political purges since the 1970s.
Turkiye Logged 1 July 2026
The European Union sent its three most senior commissioners to Turkiye, the biggest diplomatic engagement since its accession process was frozen in 2018.
Turkiye announced a 13-day ban on all protests ahead of a NATO summit.
Africa
Logged 1 July 2026
Sudan's RSF continued its siege of the army stronghold
El Obeid, with an assault disrupted by defenders.
The Sudanese army captured a major city in Darfur, as the initiative in the region shifts.
Business
Logged 1 July 2026
Space company
Rocket Lab bought satellite-maker
Iridium in a deal to position the company against
SpaceX.
Rocket Lab aims to gain a similar advantage by owning both the satellites and the launch capabilities.
Climate
Logged 1 July 2026
The El Niño weather effect intensified over the Pacific Ocean, expected to drive more hot weather this summer.
A record heatwave across Western Europe in late June killed more than 1,300 people.
Oil
Logged 1 July 2026
Oil price declined by over 20% in June, erasing the spike past $100 caused by the start of the
Iran War.
This was the sharpest monthly drop in oil price since the pandemic (March 2020).
Asia
Logged 30 June 2026
The Pakistan-Afghanistan war escalated over Afghan-based militant groups, with Pakistan striking 3 provinces on 29 June.
Australia and Vanuatu signed a $500 million strategic agreement that bans foreign bases in Vanuatu; China expressed concern.
Rest of the World
Logged 30 June 2026
Australia and Vanuatu signed a $500 million strategic agreement that bans foreign bases in Vanuatu.
It also requires consultation on foreign infrastructure projects, aimed at lowering Chinese influence.
Iran War Logged 29 June 2026 (run 2)
Iran and the US pause attacks after renewed fighting over the weekend.
Iran War Logged 29 June 2026 (run 1)
Iran and the US agree yet another pause in attacks after renewed fighting over the weekend.
A deal between Israel and Lebanon to restore the latter's sovereignty was signed on 26 June, but fighting with Hezbollah continues, as Israel occupies the south of the country.
Ukraine War Logged 29 June 2026
Vladimir Putin openly acknowledged problems with fuel supply as at least 22 regions face restrictions.
US Logged 29 June 2026
US
Supreme Court ruled that the president has authority to replace the leaders of 20+
independent agencies.
However, the Supreme Court supported the independence of the central bank (Federal Reserve) in a connected case.
China Logged 29 June 2026
China added 40 Japanese organisations to its export-control blacklist.
Earlier, China put 10 US firms under export controls in response to tightened AI-chip sale controls.
Germany Logged 29 June 2026
Volkswagen is planning to cut up to 100,000 jobs, 25% of its staff, and shut 4 factories in Germany.
The government announced its aim to prevent the closure of local factories.
Turkiye Logged 29 June 2026
Turkiye announced a 13-day ban on all protests ahead of a NATO summit.
It detained 2 opposition mayors on 25 June, raising the total jailed or removed since 2024 past 40.
Asia
Logged 29 June 2026
The Pakistan-Afghanistan war escalated, with Pakistan striking 3 provinces on 29 June.
The attacks targeted Afghan-based anti-Pakistan militant groups, as a low-intensity conflict has continued since February.
Middle East
Logged 29 June 2026
47 officials, including 12 members of parliament, arrested in Iraq in an anti-corruption crackdown.
This is an action against Iranian influence in the country, including oil smuggling and political favours.
South America
Logged 29 June 2026
2 earthquakes struck Venezuela on 24 June, killing at least 1,430 people, with nearly 68,900 missing.
Argentina and Brazil's leaders, Milei and Lula, clashed at a South American forum over re-admitting Venezuela.
Business
Logged 29 June 2026
US technology shares had their worst week since February, with the Nasdaq down 4.5% in the week to 26 June, up 1% on Monday.
Apple and Microsoft announced consumer price increases on items like iPhone and Xbox.
Oil
Logged 29 June 2026
After resuming strikes on each other over the weekend, the US and Iran agreed to another pause.
Another round of negotiations may happen in Qatar, as the oil market remains calm on Monday.
Iran War Logged 28 June 2026
Iran fired missiles and drones at US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, after 2 nights of US strikes on Iran.
On 25 June, Iran hit a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, as peace negotiations were taking place.
Ukraine War Logged 28 June 2026
Ukrainian drone strikes have cut Russia's petrol output to about 25% below a year earlier.
Russia downed a record 660 drones on 26 June, as restrictions on fuel sales are introduced in some regions.
UK Logged 28 June 2026
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is stepping down, most likely to be replaced by Andy Burnham.
If not contested by other Labour members of parliament, he would become the new PM by 18 July.
US Logged 28 June 2026
US inflation reached 4.1% in the year to May, as higher oil prices in 2026 drive up prices.
Markets now predict an increase in US interest rates by December, not a cut.
China Logged 28 June 2026
On 22 June China put 10 US firms under export controls and barred 46 companies from state contracts.
Earlier, the US tightened AI-chip sale controls towards China and restricted trading with 188 more Chinese firms.
France Logged 28 June 2026
Prime Minister Lecornu ordered ministers to cut 30-50 billion euros from the 2027 budget on 13 June.
French public debt reached a record 117.5% of GDP in the first quarter of 2026.
Germany Logged 28 June 2026
Volkswagen is planning to cut up to 100,000 jobs, 25% of its staff, and shut 4 factories in Germany.
The carmaker is losing ground to Chinese electric-vehicle rivals and pays about 4 billion euros a year in US tariffs.
India Logged 28 June 2026
US and India are reportedly close to agreeing a trade deal, with tariff rate central.
India wants to negotiate lower tariffs than neighbours Vietnam and Thailand, with reports suggesting it may succeed, at 18%.
Japan Logged 28 June 2026
US and Japan signal joint action to support the value of its currency, now near a 40-year low.
The Japanese economy is facing a combined problem of high debt, low currency value and growing cost of imports.
Turkiye Logged 28 June 2026
Turkiye detained 2 more opposition mayors on 25 June, total jailed or removed since 2024 past 40.
Most were from the main opposition party, and the arrests came days before Turkiye hosts a NATO summit.
Africa
Logged 28 June 2026
Sudan's RSF has tightened its siege of
El Obeid, killing about 50 civilians in 10 days of drone strikes.
There is a risk that more than half a million residents may be killed if the city falls.
Asia
Logged 28 June 2026
Indonesia has signed a deal to import 150 million barrels of Russian crude oil by the end of 2026.
South-East Asia's largest economy routed the deal through a state agency to avoid Western sanctions.
Europe
Logged 28 June 2026
The EU finalised its trade deal with the United States on 25 June.
It drops EU tariffs on US industrial goods for a 15% US cap on European exports, avoiding a threatened tariff on EU cars.
Middle East
Logged 28 June 2026
Aid is entering Gaza at under a third of the level promised in the ceasefire.
About 14,242 trucks arrived from January to the end of May, against the 45,000 the deal required.
South America
Logged 28 June 2026
2 earthquakes struck Venezuela on 24 June, killing at least 1,430 people, with nearly 68,900 missing.
The United States eased its sanctions to allow relief and sent navy ships to help.
Rest of the World
Logged 28 June 2026
Cuba has begun its biggest economic overhaul since the 1959 revolution, legalising private banks and majority foreign ownership.
The government set out new taxes on 23 June, as its economy faces a 6.5% contraction in 2026.
Business
Logged 28 June 2026
US technology shares had their worst week since February, with the Nasdaq down 4.5% in the week to 26 June.
US share valuations sit near their dot-com-era peak, and the fall hit markets from South Korea to Japan.
Climate
Logged 28 June 2026
A record heatwave across Western Europe in late June killed more than 1,300 people, the WHO reported.
In Venezuela, a dual earthquake killed at least 1,400 people (see South America section).
Oil
Logged 28 June 2026
By Friday, oil fell back to its pre-war level, with Brent at $71.99 a barrel, down about 25% on the month.
After the US and Iran resumed strikes on each other over the weekend, the world awaits Monday's market reaction.
International (retired)
Logged 28 June 2026
World institutions have not acted on the US-Iran war, with the UN Security Council deadlocked and no resolution passed.
The
IAEA has not checked
Iran's uranium stock since February, and forecasters have cut 2026 world trade growth to 1.9%.
