Russian President Vladimir Putin brushed off U.S. sanctions targeting major oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil, calling them “serious but unlikely to destabilize” Russia’s economy. He described the measures as an unfriendly act that does not help improve U.S.-Russia relations. Responding to the potential supply of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine by the U.S., Putin warned that any attacks on Russian territory would trigger a “very strong, if not overwhelming” retaliation. While emphasizing Russia’s readiness to defend itself, he expressed a preference for dialogue over escalation. The sanctions are part of Trump’s push to pressure Russia amid the Ukraine conflict. (PC: NDTV)    

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed the latest US sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, calling them serious but not damaging to Russia’s economy. The sanctions, announced by President Donald Trump, aim to pressure Moscow over the Ukraine conflict. Putin said the move was “unfriendly” and would not improve Russia-US ties. He added that Russia remains open to dialogue but warned that any attack using US Tomahawk missiles would face a “very strong” response. The sanctions are the first imposed by the Trump administration since his return to office, following the collapse of planned peace talks in Budapest.

Hours after the $100 million jewel theft at the Louvre, thieves struck again at France’s Maison des Lumières in Landres. Around 2,000 gold and silver coins, some over 200 years old, were stolen from the museum dedicated to philosopher Denis Diderot. Staff discovered the smashed display on Tuesday but realized the burglary occurred Sunday, the same day as the Louvre heist. Officials said the theft was done with “great expertise.” Police continue to investigate. The recent string of robberies highlights security gaps at French museums and raises concerns that stolen items may be melted and sold as precious metals. (PC: nypost)

King Charles and Pope Leo made history by praying side by side in the Sistine Chapel — a first for leaders of the Church of England and the Catholic Church. The service focused on unity and nature, bridging centuries-old divisions since the Reformation. Queen Camilla also joined the royal visit to the Vatican. The moment symbolized friendship and reconciliation between the two churches. Later, the King and Queen offered prayers at St Paul’s tomb, reflecting on faith and peace. Despite media attention over Prince Andrew, the visit carried a strong message of harmony and shared belief. (PC: X)

Russian President Vladimir Putin criticised new US sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, calling them a “hostile act.” The sanctions aim to cut Moscow’s war funding and end the conflict in Ukraine. Putin said Russia would not bow to pressure and warned that any attack using long-range US missiles on Russian soil would bring a “very serious” response. He added the sanctions would not hurt Russia’s economy but could raise global oil prices. The US announced the move as Russia held major nuclear drills and after delaying a planned summit between Presidents Donald Trump and Putin. (PC: India Today)

NBA coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were among over 30 people arrested in an FBI investigation into illegal gambling. Authorities said Rozier shared insider game details with bettors, while Billups was linked to rigged poker games involving organized crime. The schemes reportedly made millions through wire fraud, money laundering, and extortion. Rozier’s lawyer denied all charges, saying prosecutors relied on weak evidence. Both men are expected to appear in court. The case adds to growing worries about gambling in American sports after several players faced bans and criminal charges in recent years. (PC: AFP)

Myanmar’s army has regained key towns like Kyaukme and Hsipaw after weeks of fighting with ethnic insurgents. Daily air strikes, drones, artillery, and new soldiers helped the military take control fast. China supports the junta, providing drones, technology, and diplomatic backing for elections in December. The opposition, made up of local forces and ethnic militias, is divided and struggling. Thousands of civilians fled, and many were killed in the fighting. While the army now controls main trade routes, insurgents still hold parts of Rakhine and Chin States. (PC: BBC)

New footage shows thieves stealing $100 million in jewels from the Louvre in Paris. Two men, wearing neon vests and helmets, used a truck-mounted lift to reach a second-floor window and cut through glass to enter the Apollo Gallery. The alarm sounded but guards focused on visitors did not respond immediately. The robbers calmly cut open a jewelry case while stunned guests watched. They tried to burn the lift but failed and dropped an emerald crown with over 1,300 diamonds. Police say the four suspects abandoned the truck and fled on motorized scooters. The search continues.

The final New York City mayoral debate saw Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa clash fiercely. The 90-minute debate covered housing, Israel-Gaza, and relations with the White House. Mamdani called Cuomo “desperate,” while Cuomo criticised Mamdani’s record. Sliwa attacked both on safety and public services. Past scandals were also discussed, including Cuomo’s sexual harassment cases and Mamdani’s controversial Uganda photo. On federal immigration actions, all agreed NYPD should manage local issues. Mamdani defended his pro-Palestine stance, while Cuomo emphasised Israel support. The debate offered voters a final chance to assess candidates before the November 4 election. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump has announced new sanctions on Russia’s two biggest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil. The move came a day after he cancelled his planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump said talks with Putin “don’t go anywhere” and that it was time to act. The sanctions aim to pressure Moscow to end the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the move, calling it a “good signal.” Russia said it is “immune” to the sanctions. The EU also backed new energy measures, saying continued pressure is key to achieving peace. (PC: BBC)