US envoys expected in Moscow and Kyiv to restart Ukraine mediation
United States envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to travel to Moscow and Kyiv over the weekend in an apparent effort to revive negotiations aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine. The planned visits mark a renewed attempt by Washington to re-engage directly with both sides after mediation efforts had largely stalled. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said late on Thursday that the negotiators were due to hold meetings in both capitals in the coming days.Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready for substantive, high-level negotiations and that its negotiating team is in near-constant contact with the US side. He described... [Continue Reading]
Sponsored
Tungatinah Power Station gutted by fire as investigators use drone to inspect damage
Authorities in Tasmania say the Tungatinah Power Station has been gutted by fire and remains too unsafe to enter. Investigators are using a drone to inspect the interior of the burnt-out hydroelectric facility in the Central Highlands. The Lyell Highway remains closed nearby while emergency crews and investigators continue their work.The Tasmania Fire Service said it is still trying to make the scene safe enough for investigators to gain access. Deputy Chief Officer Matt Lowe said the team is struggling to enter because of loose debris and windy conditions, and that it will likely take several days to examine the... [Continue Reading]
Libyan rival factions sign deal to hold national elections within 24 months
Rival political factions in Libya have signed a deal in Tripoli aimed at holding legislative and presidential elections within two years. The agreement was signed at the United Nations Support Mission in Libya in the capital on Sunday, following an earlier draft prepared by the UN-backed 4+4 committee in Tunis on 20 August. It sets out a timeline for elections under a single executive authority within a period not exceeding 24 months.Walid Ellafi, the state minister of political affairs and communications in the internationally recognised Government of National Unity, said the deal provides for legislative and presidential polls within that... [Continue Reading]
Iran keeps Strait of Hormuz restricted as Khamenei urges Gulf unity
Iran's Supreme Leader has urged Gulf leaders to identify what he called their "real enemy" as Tehran maintains restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz amid stalled diplomacy. The message, published on Sunday to mark the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, comes as regional mediation efforts continue over one of the world's most important shipping lanes. Iranian officials say the waterway remains closed or restricted, with vessels required to coordinate with Tehran before crossing.Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said on Saturday that Iran had reached an understanding with Oman on a temporary maritime route, but said its implementation depends on the... [Continue Reading]
Sponsored
