Russia becomes the first country to formally recognize Taliban’s latest rule in Afghanistan

AP News,

In a significant diplomatic shift, Russia has become the first country to officially recognize the Taliban government in Afghanistan since its takeover in 2021. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced Thursday that it had accepted the credentials of Afghanistan’s newly appointed ambassador, Gul Hassan Hassan, solidifying bilateral ties. The move followed a decision by Russia’s Supreme Court in April 2025 to remove the Taliban from its list of outlawed organizations, reversing a two-decade-long stance. The Taliban hailed the decision as historic, with Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi calling it a “good example for other countries.” Russia’s Ambassador to Afghanistan, Dmitry Zhirnov, stated that the decision, made by President Putin upon the advice of Foreign Minister Lavrov, signified Russia’s commitment to deepening relations with Afghanistan. Despite international criticism of the Taliban’s harsh restrictions on women and girls, Russia emphasized the need for engagement to ensure regional stability. Moscow’s recognition stands in contrast to global hesitation due to the Taliban’s enforcement of strict Islamic laws and human rights concerns.

Major win for Trump as Congress passes ‘big, beautiful bill’

BBC News,

Former President Donald Trump secured a major legislative victory as the U.S. Congress passed his sweeping tax and spending package, dubbed the “big, beautiful bill.” After narrow margins in both chambers—218-214 in the House and a single-vote lead in the Senate—the bill passed just before Trump’s self-imposed July 4 deadline. The legislation, expected to be signed into law at a national ceremony, makes permanent Trump’s 2017 tax cuts and eliminates taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security benefits, amounting to $4.5 trillion in tax relief. However, the bill also cuts health care and food subsidies, and the Congressional Budget Office estimates it may add $3.3 trillion to the federal deficit over a decade. The bill includes $150 billion each for border security and military spending. Democrats fiercely opposed the bill, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries delivering an 8-hour speech condemning its impacts. Despite criticism, Republican leaders hailed the vote as a turning point, emphasizing belief and unity within the party.

China denies military base ambitions in Pacific Islands

Reuters,

China has firmly rejected claims that it seeks to establish military bases or expand geopolitical influence in the Pacific Islands, following remarks by Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. In a statement issued Thursday, the Chinese embassy in Fiji dismissed such allegations as “false narratives,” asserting that Beijing’s presence in the region is focused on infrastructure development and economic cooperation. Rabuka had earlier expressed concerns over China’s growing regional footprint, particularly after Beijing tested an intercontinental ballistic missile that flew over Fiji. Though acknowledging China’s role in development, Rabuka maintained his opposition to any potential military installations. The concerns echo those raised in 2018 and 2022 when China was suspected of seeking naval and military base deals in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The U.S. has also voiced apprehension, warning of consequences if Beijing were to establish a permanent military presence. China insists it respects Pacific nations’ sovereignty and denies any intention to create a “sphere of influence.” Beijing currently maintains police presences in several island nations including Solomon Islands, Kiribati, and Vanuatu.