A suspected militant linked to the banned United Kuki National Army (UKNA) was killed during a gunfight with security forces in Manipur's Churachandpur district. Officials said the encounter took place during a joint operation by the Army and Assam Rifles. An AK-47 rifle, ammunition and explosives were recovered from the site. Security forces reported no casualties. However, local village authorities and Kuki MLA Letzamang Haokip alleged that the deceased, Lenminsang Haokip, was an innocent villager and demanded an impartial investigation. Additional security personnel have been deployed, and search operations are continuing in the area.

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FIFA President Gianni Infantino is set to travel thousands of miles during the 2026 FIFA World Cup as he aims to attend up to two matches each day. Infantino is using a private jet provided by Qatar Airways to move between venues in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The tournament is being played across 16 stadiums in four time zones, making travel a major challenge. Infantino attended the opening match in Mexico City and has already visited several host cities. The extensive travel has also raised concerns about the tournament's environmental impact due to high carbon emissions from air travel. (PC: AP)

Argentina captain Lionel Messi made history with a hat-trick in his team's 3-0 win over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At 38 years and 357 days, Messi became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick, breaking Cristiano Ronaldo's record set in 2018. The Argentine star scored with a long-range strike, a rebound finish, and a curling effort. The hat-trick came in his 200th match for Argentina. Messi also moved level with Germany's Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals. The achievement came exactly 20 years after his first World Cup goal in 2006. (PC: Getty Images)

The US has renamed its military command from US Indo-Pacific Command back to US Pacific Command. The Trump administration said the move is only a name change and does not affect the command’s mission. However, the decision has raised questions about America’s focus on the Indian Ocean region and its ties with India. Some analysts believe it could signal a shift in US strategic priorities. Others say India remains important to Washington’s plans in Asia. The command’s responsibilities remain unchanged. The move has also sparked debate about the future role of the Quad grouping in regional security.

US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France. Trump praised Modi, saying he “looks like an angel” but is “as tough as they come” in negotiations. The two leaders discussed trade, security, and regional issues. Trump also said, “If anybody attacks that man, we're gonna be there,” referring to Modi. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and protecting Indian seafarers. Modi said their safety was of “utmost importance”. Both leaders expressed confidence in stronger India-US cooperation in the future.

Israel carried out fresh air strikes in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, according to Lebanese state media. The attacks came despite criticism from US President Donald Trump. Trump said Israel needed to be more careful in Lebanon and that too many people were being killed. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has continued since a US-Iran peace agreement was announced. Israel says it is targeting Hezbollah positions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli forces would stay in Lebanon as long as needed. Iran warned that any new Israeli attacks or military presence in Lebanon could violate the agreement and threaten regional stability. (PC: BBC)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit after 16 months. The two leaders discussed regional security, trade, and maritime safety. Modi stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and raised concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers working in the region. He welcomed the US-Iran peace framework and said it could bring stability to West Asia. Trump praised Modi, calling him a tough negotiator and an important global leader. He said the United States would support India if it ever faced an attack and expressed interest in visiting India. (PPC: AP)

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to headline Portugal’s crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match against DR Congo, with global fans eagerly awaiting another performance from the veteran striker. The fixture has attracted additional spotlight due to the simultaneous presence of modern football icons Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland in other tournament matches, creating a rare overlap of generational talent on the World Cup stage. Analysts view this tournament as a symbolic transition phase in football history, with Ronaldo likely playing one of his final World Cup campaigns. Portugal are strong favourites, while DR Congo aim to challenge expectations. (PC: Reuters)

Meta has begun introducing paid features and subscription-based services across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, marking a shift from its traditionally free-to-use model. The move is driven by rising costs linked to artificial intelligence development, content moderation, and large-scale infrastructure expansion. While core services remain free, users may now pay for premium tools, enhanced privacy options, and advanced business features. The company says the changes aim to diversify revenue beyond advertising and support long-term platform sustainability. The rollout has sparked debate over digital accessibility, with users concerned about potential limits on free social media experiences. (PC: NDTV)