The White House has greenlit a major new ballroom despite widespread public opposition and warnings from preservationists, igniting a heated debate among architects and historians. Critics argue that the scale and design of the addition could compromise the historic integrity of the iconic residence, while supporters contend that the expansion is necessary to accommodate state functions and large official events.

The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between modern functionality and the preservation of national heritage, raising questions about how civic landmarks should evolve in the 21st century.

Somaliland, a self-declared independent region in the Horn of Africa, has offered the United States access to its mineral resources and potential military bases as part of its ongoing push for international recognition. The offer was made by Somaliland’s minister of the presidency, Khadar Hussein Abdi, who highlighted deposits of strategic minerals like lithium and coltan. While Israel formally recognized Somaliland in 2025, Somalia’s federal government continues to reject its independence.

Somaliland’s strategic location along the Gulf of Aden makes it geopolitically significant, and the proposal signals its intent to strengthen ties with major powers, though the US has not publicly committed to recognition or any formal agreements.

Hungary has announced it will block a €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine unless Russian oil shipments through the Druzhba pipeline resume. Budapest claims the pipeline halt, caused by attacks inside Ukraine, unfairly disrupts Hungarian energy supplies. Hungary’s foreign minister, Péter Szijjártó, has called the situation “blackmail,” warning that the veto could also affect new EU sanctions on Russia.

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, son of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, has been arrested in Johannesburg on suspicion of attempted murder after a gardener was shot and critically injured at his Hyde Park home.

Donald Trump’s new ambassador to South Africa, L. Brent Bozell III, is expected to prioritise key U.S. foreign policy concerns, including urging Pretoria to reconsider its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and reviewing its engagement with countries such as China and Russia. His arrival comes at a sensitive moment in bilateral relations, with both sides expressing interest in stabilising ties and strengthening dialogue.

A large herd of elephants has begun seasonal migration in Botswana, attracting eco-tourists and raising awareness of conservation efforts. Officials are monitoring routes to prevent conflicts with nearby farmland and settlements.

Governments in the United States, Japan, and Germany are investing heavily in domestic chip manufacturing to reduce supply chain vulnerabilities.

Meanwhile, major chipmakers are racing to produce smaller, more energy-efficient processors for AI data centers and mobile devices.

At Norway’s Smøla wind farm, scientists have found a remarkably simple way to reduce bird deaths caused by wind turbines. By painting just one blade of each turbine black, fatalities dropped by nearly 70%, especially among large birds like eagles and hawks. Normally, spinning blades blur together, creating a visual illusion that makes them hard for birds to detect. The black blade breaks this illusion, making the turbines easier to see and avoid.

Mexico’s security forces have killed Nemesio “El Mencho,” the head of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), following a shoot-out in the state of Jalisco. Mexican authorities say El Mencho was wounded in a clash with soldiers and died while being transported to Mexico City, ending a long-running manhunt and a US $15 million bounty on his head.

The government has mobilized around 10 000 troops to quell widespread unrest after his death, as cartel factions launched coordinated attacks, set fires, and blocked roads in at least 20 states.

Ghana and Burkina Faso have signed seven major bilateral agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation on security, trade and cross-border governance after a six-year hiatus in high-level ties.

The United States has sent around 100 military personnel to northeast Nigeria to assist in counterterrorism training, intelligence gathering, and operational support with Nigerian forces.

Officials emphasize that the mission is primarily advisory and supportive, aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to protect civilians, disrupt militant networks, and enhance regional stability in West Africa.

Pakistan carried out airstrikes across the Afghan border, targeting several militant strongholds and reportedly killing dozens. Afghan authorities, including the Taliban, claim civilian casualties occurred, sparking condemnation in Kabul. Regional diplomats warn that such actions threaten to destabilize the fragile ceasefire that was negotiated last year.

South Africa’s automotive industry is bracing for new European emissions standards, which could limit vehicle exports and challenge the sector’s competitiveness in international markets.

Mexico has sent up to 10,000 troops to multiple states following the capture and killing of CJNG leader El Mencho, aiming to restore order after widespread cartel retaliation that included attacks on security forces and infrastructure. President Claudia Sheinbaum called the deployment necessary to protect public safety amid escalating violence.

Video of aftermath of Iranian strike on Dubai Airport.

Escalating tensions have disrupted global air travel, with several Middle Eastern countries closing their airspace and forcing widespread flight cancellations and rerouting. Thousands of passengers are stranded as airlines adjust schedules.