Russian strikes on Ukrainian regions result in death and injuries as Zelensky visits U.S. to propose conflict resolution.
Russian strikes on Ukrainian regions have resulted in one death and 24 injuries, officials report. In Kherson, shelling and air strikes killed a 61-year-old woman and injured seven, while Zaporizhzhia saw 16 people hurt in overnight strikes. These attacks coincide with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the United States to present a plan to end the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Meanwhile, in Sudan, a rapid cholera outbreak has killed at least 388 people and infected around 13,000, exacerbated by ongoing conflict between the military and the RSF. The World Health Organization attributes the spread to contaminated food and water, particularly in eastern regions. The crisis deepens amid devastating floods, famine, and the world's largest displacement crisis, affecting over 13 million people.
Turning to diplomacy, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will meet in New York during the UN General Assembly. This follow-up to their NATO summit encounter in July aims to improve relations between the historic rivals and NATO allies. Maintaining open communication and reducing military tensions are key focuses for both leaders.
In Pakistan, the Taliban denied involvement in a deadly bombing targeting a police convoy escorting foreign diplomats in Malam Jabba. The attack, which killed a police officer and injured four others, has prompted investigations into a potential security breach. The incident has also strained relations between Pakistan and
Afghanistan's Taliban government, which harbors Pakistani Taliban leaders.
On a different note, Albania is set to establish a sovereign microstate for Bektashi Muslims in Tirana, as announced by Prime Minister Edi Rama. This enclave, akin to the Vatican, aims to foster religious harmony and will be governed by the Bektashi leader and a council. The Bektashi sect, known for its tolerance, comprises about 10% of Albania’s Muslim population.
Lastly, a tragic boat incident off the coast of Samos in the eastern Aegean has left three people dead and five rescued, with search efforts ongoing. The incident underscores Greece's role on a major migrant route into the EU, highlighting continued border control challenges. Crews including coast guard patrols, a private vessel, and an air force helicopter are involved in the rescue efforts.