Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi campaigned in Kashmir, asserting that "terrorism is on its last legs" following the deaths of two soldiers in a gunfight with suspected militants. Modi emphasized the developments since the 2019 revocation of Kashmir's semi-autonomy, despite increased clashes, claiming that governance changes have brought peace and growth.

Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe, Russian forces recaptured the key village of Jelannoe Pervoe in the Pokrovsk district of Ukraine. This significant logistical hub's capture has strained Ukrainian resources, reflecting rapid advances by Russian troops credited to the decisive actions of their southern units.

In Uganda, a heartfelt village funeral was held for Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei, who was tragically murdered by her partner in Kenya. The death of the 33-year-old marathon runner has sparked grief and outrage over gender-based violence, uniting family, officials, and fellow athletes in mourning.

Continuing with regional news, Comoros President Azali Assoumani was slightly injured in a knife attack while attending a funeral in Moroni. The president, who has returned home after security forces arrested the attacker, has a tumultuous political history, with his leadership following a 1999 coup.

In a significant diplomatic development, Russia and Ukraine conducted a major prisoner of war exchange, mediated by the United Arab Emirates. This swap saw 206 soldiers returned to their respective countries, with the released Russian soldiers now in Belarus receiving psychological and medical assistance.

Lastly, Algeria's President Abdelmadjid Tebboune secured a second term with 84.3% of the vote, amid fraud allegations. With turnout at 46.1% among registered voters, preliminary results showing nearly 95% support led to challenges from rival candidates Abdelaali Hassani and Youcef Aouchiche.