China has rejected US President Donald Trump’s call for 100% tariffs on Beijing over Russian oil trade. During a visit to Slovenia, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said China “does not plot or join wars” and argued that war never solves problems. His remarks came hours after Trump urged NATO nations to stop buying Russian oil and punish China with heavy sanctions. Washington has already imposed tariffs on India for importing Russian oil but avoided direct action on Beijing. The US continues to push G7 countries to cut Moscow’s revenue streams to weaken its war effort. (PC: X)

The Indian cricket team has spoken on calls to boycott Pakistan at the 2025 Asia Cup after the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Fielding coach Ryan ten Doeschate said the team is following instructions from the government and the BCCI. “Players feel the emotion and sentiments of the public. But we are here to play cricket,” he said. Ten Doeschate added that head coach Gautam Gambhir’s message is clear: “Focus on the game and not on matters beyond control.” India will face Pakistan on Sunday in Dubai. The government earlier said bilateral games remain suspended. (PC: News18)

US President Donald Trump has called on NATO countries to stop buying oil from Russia, saying the purchases weaken the alliance’s stance in the Russia-Ukraine war. In a letter to NATO members, Trump said the bloc’s commitment to ending the war is “far less than 100%.” He urged members to impose heavy tariffs, up to 100%, on China for its Russian oil imports, arguing this would pressure Moscow. Trump said he is ready to push major sanctions only if all NATO nations act together. His remarks come after Russian drones entered Polish airspace, raising tensions with NATO allies. (PC: Reuters)

Police in the West Midlands are investigating the rape of a British Sikh woman in Oldbury as a racially aggravated assault. The woman, in her twenties, was attacked by two men who also shouted racist abuse, telling her to “go back to your country.” Detectives are examining CCTV and forensic evidence to find the suspects, described as white men. Local MPs Gurinder Singh Josan and Preet Kaur Gill condemned the crime, calling it a hate attack and urging swift justice. Police said they understand the anger and fear in the community and are working hard to arrest those responsible. (PC: News18)

China has warned the United States and Britain after their warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait. The USS Higgins, a US missile destroyer, and the HMS Richmond, a UK frigate, crossed the 110-mile passage on Friday. Beijing’s military called the transit “provocation” and deployed ships and planes to shadow them. China claims the strait as part of its territory, while the US and allies say it is international waters. Washington and London called it a routine passage under global law. The warning follows China’s growing military pressure on Taiwan, including war games, and new disputes in the South China Sea. (PC: PA)

Tens of thousands gathered in central London on Saturday for a march led by anti-immigration activist Tommy Robinson. Protesters carried English and British flags, chanting against Prime Minister Keir Starmer and calling to stop illegal migration. A counter protest organised by “Stand Up to Racism” also took place nearby. Police deployed over 1,600 officers to control tensions, after nearly 900 arrests at last week’s demonstration. Immigration has become Britain’s top political issue this year, with record asylum claims and Channel crossings. While supporters called the rally a defence of free speech, critics warned of rising racism and division. (PC: Reuters)

Israel has intensified airstrikes on Gaza City, hitting schools, homes, and shelters. The Israeli army says 250,000 people have fled south, but many cannot afford the journey. Prime Minister Netanyahu calls Gaza City Hamas’s last stronghold, while the UN warns of a deeper catastrophe in an area already facing famine. Families described fleeing in darkness under heavy fire. Qatar strongly criticised Israel after a strike in Doha killed Hamas officials and a Qatari guard. Gaza’s health ministry says nearly 65,000 people have been killed since October 2023, including 47 in the last day. Hunger deaths continue to rise. (PC: Reuters)

Sushila Karki, Nepal’s former chief justice, was sworn in as the country’s first woman Prime Minister. She took oath at Rashtrapati Bhawan after days of protests against corruption and unemployment. The protests forced PM KP Sharma Oli to resign, leaving over 50 people dead in clashes. Karki, known for her tough stand on corruption, was chosen as a consensus leader by the president, army, and protest groups. General elections are set for March 5, 2026. India welcomed the new interim government and promised support. Karki’s appointment is seen as a step towards peace and stability in Nepal. (PC: NDTV)

Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist, was shot dead on Wednesday during a Q&A at Utah Valley University. Police say 22-year-old Tyler Robinson used a bolt-action rifle in the attack. Robinson was arrested after his family reported him to authorities. Security footage and his Discord activity linked him to the crime. He is being held on suspicion of aggravated murder. Charges are expected next week. Utah Governor Spencer Cox thanked Robinson’s family for helping police. Kirk’s death has drawn outrage across the U.S. The governor called it a “watershed moment,” comparing it to past political assassinations. (PC: HT)

Thousands gathered in central London for the ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, while counter protests marched nearby. Police deployed 1,000 officers, including 500 brought from other regions, to maintain order. Demonstrators waved Union Jacks and flags with slogans like “Stop the Boats” and “Send Them Home.” Some also carried anti-transgender messages. A man held a cross marked “RIP Charlie Kirk.” At the same time, about 500 anti-racism activists rallied with placards saying “Oppose Tommy Robinson” and “Refugees Welcome.” Police promised firm action against hate speech and urged demonstrators to remain peaceful. (PC: BBC)