
01
Sudan army drones hit mourners and fuel market killing more than 300 people, sources say
The gist: Reported Sudanese army drone strikes in West Kordofan and Abyei have killed more than 300 people, including mourners and market-goers, raising fears the war could spill into South Sudan.
Big pictureThe attacks show how Sudan’s war, which began in 2023 between the army and the Rapid Support Forces, is hitting civilians and strategic areas beyond the capital. The Abyei strike is especially sensitive because Sudan and South Sudan both claim the oil-rich border region.
Explain like I'm 5Drones attacked people at a funeral and at a busy fuel market. The fuel caught fire, making the damage much worse—like knocking over a candle near a pile of paper.
Why it matters nowThe reported Abyei death toll rose from 73 to 153, prompting South Sudan to summon Sudan’s ambassador and raising fears of cross-border spillover.
Three things to know01Fuel fires multiplied the damage
The strikes ignited fuel supplies, spread fires to nearby homes, and made it difficult for emergency workers to recover bodies.
02Abyei’s status remains disputed
Sudan and South Sudan have jointly administered the area since South Sudan became independent in 2011, but neither side has abandoned its claim.
03Satellite evidence supports destruction
BBC Verify matched satellite images of burned buildings with videos showing smoke, a petrol tanker, and fires near the market.
Trusted source
BBC World ↗

02
US envoy to meet Putin in Russia as Zelensky says intelligence sharing 'works now'
The gist: Officials say genuine progress was made toward peace talks as US envoy Witkoff prepares to meet Putin and Zelensky says US intelligence sharing now works.
Big pictureAny peace deal would have to address Ukraine's safety after the war, possible energy pauses in fighting and Europe's role in the talks. The countries involved still disagree over how much Ukraine should compromise and how much support it should receive.
Explain like I'm 5People from the US, Ukraine and Europe are trying to agree on a way to stop the war. They have made some progress, but the fighting is still happening and the hardest decisions are not settled.
Why it matters nowAfter talks in Oslo, Witkoff is expected to meet Putin in Russia tomorrow to discuss the proposals. Zelensky also said US early-warning intelligence is now working, while Ukraine is still seeking more missile defense and reliable Starlink access.
Three things to know01Russia still holds major territory
Moscow controls about 20% of Ukraine, making territory one of the central and most difficult issues in any settlement.
02Air defenses remain a bottleneck
Patriot interceptors are described as the only effective weapon against Russian ballistic missiles, but their additional transfer to Ukraine has not been confirmed.
03Starlink access remains unresolved
Ukraine's military has reported speed restrictions on Starlink, which its forces use for drone operations, and US senators have called for an investigation.
Trusted source
BBC World ↗

03
France announces nightly curfews 'for as long as necessary' in Paris and other cities
The gist: France has imposed nightly curfews in several cities after violent protests, while preparing a massive security operation for Saturday.
Big pictureThe unrest began with protests about rising living costs and poor conditions in schools but grew into fires, looting and clashes with police. The government is using restrictions, extra security and tough court sentences to try to prevent more violence.
Explain like I'm 5A curfew is like telling people to go home for the night so streets can stay calm. Police are watching key places, and soldiers will guard some buildings so more police can manage crowds.
Why it matters nowParis and Lyon renewed curfews after a quiet night, while another major protest day is planned for Saturday. Authorities are moving soldiers to sensitive sites and promising a large police deployment.
Three things to know01Curfews cover selected areas
Paris's restrictions apply around Place de la République and Les Halles, but exclude other locations hit during the weekend violence.
02Soldiers will guard sites
Sentinelle soldiers will protect sensitive locations, allowing police and gendarmes to focus more directly on controlling protest crowds.
03Courts are issuing prison terms
About 2,400 people were arrested nationwide, and three first-time offenders received immediate 10-month sentences for looting a video game store.
Trusted source
NPR World ↗