Putin signals willingness to discuss Ukraine peace but insists on objectives

Reuters,

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness to negotiate a peace settlement in Ukraine, though he reiterated Moscow’s insistence on achieving key wartime goals, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state media. The comments suggest limited diplomatic opening amid continued Russian offensives and Western resistance to compromising Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Japan’s government loses upper house control in major blow to Abe allied coalition

Reuters,

Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party lost its majority in the upper house elections held on 20 July, weakening Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s leadership. The opposition campaigned on tax cuts and social welfare expansion amid public discontent over inflation. Although the lower house remains under the ruling bloc, the result may force greater concessions or reshuffling.

At least 25 Palestinians killed as Israeli forces open fire in Rafah

Al Jazeera,

Eyewitnesses and medical sources report that at least 25 Palestinians were killed and more than 70 injured when Israeli forces opened fire on a crowd of starving civilians in Rafah, southern Gaza. The incident adds to the mounting humanitarian crisis amid border restrictions and alleged food blockades.

Southeast Asian aid set to drop over $2 billion next year, threatening development in poorest nations

Al Jazeera,

A report by the Lowy Institute warns that foreign assistance to Southeast Asia will fall by more than $2 billion in the coming fiscal year, as Western donors shift spending toward defense and domestic priorities. Analysts caution that vulnerable populations and developing economies in the region may lose critical support.

EU vows $13.2 billion investment in Central Asia at Samarkand summit

Nikkei Asia,

At the EU–Central Asia summit in Samarkand on 20 July, European leaders unveiled a $13.2 billion investment package aimed at boosting infrastructure, cultural exchange, and economic ties. Central Asian leaders welcomed the collaboration as a strategic pivot deepening ties between Europe and the Global South.

Trump to host Philippine president for trade and security talks amid South China Sea tensions

AP,

U.S. President Donald Trump will host Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. from 20 to 22 July at the White House. Agenda topics include deeper defense cooperation and trade negotiations ahead of a looming 20% tariff on Philippine exports scheduled for August. The meeting underscores rising U.S.–Philippine strategic alignment amid tensions with China in the South China Sea.

Pakistan’s cricket tour begins in Bangladesh with high stakes ahead of Asia Cup

Reuters,

The Pakistan national cricket team commenced a three‑match T20I tour in Dhaka on 20 July, replacing originally scheduled ODIs. Bangladesh secured a historic first series win over Pakistan with a 2–1 margin. The tour serves as preparation for both teams ahead of the 2025 Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup.