Category: Asia

Impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol has quit South Korea’s ruling People Power Party ahead of June 3 snap elections triggered by his martial law controversy. Currently facing trial for insurrection, Yoon urged support for PPP candidate Kim Moon-soo, who trails opposition leader Lee Jae-myung by 22 points in polls. Yoon claimed his departure was to protect “liberal democracy” while opponents called him “shameless” for destroying those very values.READ FULL

Pakistan retaliated against India on Thursday with a series of counter-measures following India’s accusations of Pakistan supporting terrorism after an attack killed 26 in Kashmir. Pakistan expelled Indian diplomats, canceled visas, closed airspace to Indian airlines, suspended all trade, and warned that any interference with Indus River water supplies would be considered “an act of war.”READ FULL

Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim announced that Myanmar’s military junta and opposition group have agreed to extend a ceasefire to facilitate earthquake relief efforts. Following talks with both sides, Anwar reported positive engagement while emphasizing ASEAN’s commitment to implementing its peace plan. The March earthquake killed over 3,600 people amid ongoing civil conflict since the military ousted the elected government in 2021.READ FULL

North Korea has issued threats of “powerful force” in response to joint US-South Korea military exercises, including US B-1B bomber flights over South Korea. The North Korean Defense Ministry called these drills “an open threat” and “grave provocation.” Meanwhile, South Korea announced the start of “Freedom Flag,” a two-week aerial exercise with the US involving 90 aircraft. Tensions remain high as North Korea continues weapons tests and supports Russia’s war in Ukraine by supplying weapons and troops. President Trump has recently expressed interest in reviving diplomacy with Kim Jong Un, citing their “great relationship.”READ FULL

China, South Korea, and Japan agreed to strengthen free trade at their first high-level trade meeting in five years, responding to new tariffs imposed by US President Trump. The three nations, which represent 24% of the global economy, called for accelerated negotiations on a trilateral free-trade agreement days before US tariffs on cars and auto parts take effect. Officials emphasized the need for joint action amid increasing economic fragmentation and protectionism.READ FULL

Myanmar earthquake death toll reaches 1,700 with over 3,400 injured and 300 missing. The 7.7-magnitude quake, one of the strongest in a century, has prompted international aid from neighboring countries. Infrastructure damage is hampering relief efforts in the war-torn nation. In nearby Thailand, 18 people died when an under-construction building collapsed, with 76 still trapped beneath the rubble.READ FULL

Sixteen Maoists were killed and two security personnel sustained minor injuries during an encounter in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district on Saturday. The gunfight occurred in a forest under the Kerlapal police station area during a joint anti-Maoist operation by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The operation was launched Friday night based on intelligence about Maoist presence in the area. The operation is still ongoing.READ FULL

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered mass production of suicide attack drones after witnessing successful tests. The drones, designed to hit both land and sea targets, were demonstrated by North Korea’s Unmanned Aerial Technology Complex. Experts suggest the technology may be linked to North Korea’s alliance with Russia, with the drones resembling Israeli and Russian models. This development follows recent tensions with South Korea and continued missile testing despite UN sanctions.READ FULL

Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing visited China for a regional summit, signaling Beijing’s continued support for the military regime. Despite international condemnation, China maintains close ties with Myanmar’s military and is pressuring ethnic groups to negotiate with the junta. This is likely to further fuel anti-Chinese sentiment among Myanmar’s resistance forces.READ FULL

China conducted large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, calling it a warning against independence. The drills, involving multiple branches of the military, were a response to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s refusal to acknowledge Taiwan as part of China. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry deemed the exercises provocative and stated readiness to respond. China views the drills as a demonstration of its determination to safeguard national sovereignty, while Taiwan maintains its separate identity despite China’s claims of inevitable annexation.READ FULL

A suspected North Korean defector crossed the western maritime border into South Korea in September, Seoul’s military confirmed. This news comes as North Korea announced plans to permanently seal its southern border. The escape, reportedly by wooden boat, follows two other recent defections. North Korea has intensified border security with new landmines and barriers, though defector numbers increased to 196 in 2023.READ FULL

Seven laborers from Punjab were killed in a shooting attack in Balochistan, southwestern Pakistan. The incident occurred in Panjgur district, where militants targeted the workers at their residence. Balochistan, Pakistan’s poorest province, has been experiencing ethnic violence and separatist attacks. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for similar attacks in the past, including a major assault in August that killed 39 people. This incident is part of a recent surge in militant activities in Pakistan’s border regions since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021.READ FULL

Bangladesh is set to exchange nationals with Myanmar on Sunday. Eighty-five Bangladeshi prisoners will return home, while 123 Myanmar troops who fled to Bangladesh will be sent back. The exchange will occur at Cox’s Bazar’s BIWTA jetty. This marks the latest in a series of exchanges, with 752 Myanmar troops previously returned in three phases and 218 Bangladeshis repatriated. The process is overseen by Bangladesh’s foreign ministry, with support from local administration, BGB, and Coast Guard.READ FULL

The death toll from flooding and landslides caused by Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar has risen to 419, according to the junta. The disaster has affected nearly 887,000 people, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis following the 2021 military coup. Typhoon Yagi swept across several Southeast Asian countries, causing widespread destruction. The floods have particularly impacted remote areas, complicating communication and relief efforts. This disaster follows previous severe flooding events in Myanmar in 2011 and 2015, as well as the devastating Cyclone Nargis in 2008.READ FULL

Sri Lanka is set to hold its first presidential election since the 2022 economic crisis on Saturday. The vote is seen as a referendum on President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s IMF-backed austerity measures. He faces two main challengers, including Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, who has gained support with anti-corruption promises. The election, with 17.1 million eligible voters, will determine the nation’s political and economic direction. Analysts note public disappointment with governance, while the country still grapples with economic vulnerabilities despite some stabilization.READ FULL

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, 75, is seeking re-election, portraying himself as the “designated survivor” capable of salvaging the nation’s economy. A six-time prime minister, Wickremesinghe became president in 2022 after Gotabaya Rajapaksa was ousted. He faces strong opposition from Sajith Premadasa and Namal Rajapaksa. Wickremesinghe touts his experience and economic reforms, but critics say he has benefited from circumstances. The election, set for this week, will determine if voters support Wickremesinghe’s austerity measures or opt for change.READ FULL

Typhoon Yagi has caused devastating floods and landslides in Myanmar, killing at least 74 people with 89 missing. Nearly 240,000 are displaced. The military government has requested international aid. Damage is extensive, affecting bridges, schools, and over 65,000 houses. The capital Naypyitaw and historic Bagan were severely impacted. Civil war complicates relief efforts. Myanmar often faces extreme weather, with 2008’s Cyclone Nargis causing over 138,000 deaths.READ FULL

Myanmar’s junta chief has made a rare appeal for foreign aid following devastating floods caused by Typhoon Yagi. The disaster has killed nearly 300 people across Southeast Asia and displaced over 235,000 in Myanmar alone. The military government, which typically restricts foreign assistance, is now seeking urgent rescue and relief aid. The floods have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, where conflict has displaced 2.7 million people since the 2021 military coup. Rescue efforts are ongoing amidst reports of landslides and widespread infrastructure damage.READ FULL

North Korea has publicly disclosed images of its uranium enrichment facility for the first time, showing leader Kim Jong Un inspecting rows of centrifuges. Kim called for increasing the number of centrifuges to boost nuclear weapon production. The disclosure, which included details of nuclear warhead production, is seen as a message to the upcoming US administration about North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. Experts suggest this move is unlikely to be followed by an immediate nuclear test due to recent flood damage at the main test site.READ FULL

South Korea experienced its hottest summer on record since data collection began 50 years ago. The Korea Meteorological Administration reported that the average temperature from June to August was 25.6°C (78.08°F), which is nearly two degrees higher than the historical average. Unusually high temperatures persisted even during the monsoon season, when temperatures typically drop. This record-breaking heat highlights the ongoing impact of climate change on the country’s weather patterns.READ FULL

A suicide bombing in Kabul, Afghanistan, has killed six people and injured 13 others. The attack occurred in the Qala Bakhtiar area on the city’s southern outskirts. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are ongoing. One of the victims was a woman. No group has claimed responsibility yet. While terrorist attacks have decreased since the Taliban regained power in 2021, the Islamic State group continues to operate in the country, often targeting public spaces and Shia areas.READ FULL

China’s army and air force have begun live-fire exercises near the Myanmar border, following recent security talks between the two countries. The drills, scheduled until Thursday, aim to test military capabilities and readiness for emergencies. This comes amid ongoing clashes in Myanmar’s Shan state, a crucial area for China’s Belt and Road Initiative. China maintains ties with both Myanmar’s junta and ethnic rebel groups in the border region. READ FULL

Vietnam’s National Assembly will elect a new president in October, following recent leadership changes. The presidency is one of four key roles in Vietnam’s government structure. This election comes amid political turbulence caused by an anti-corruption campaign that led to the resignation of two presidents since 2021. The assembly also announced appointments for three deputy prime ministers, a chief judge, a chief prosecutor, and two ministers. These changes mark an unusual period of political upheaval in the typically stable communist state. AFP

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, 37, daughter of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, has been officially appointed as Thailand’s youngest prime minister by the king. This follows the court’s dismissal of the previous PM. Paetongtarn leads a coalition government including her Pheu Thai party and some pro-military groups. She’s the third Shinawatra to become PM, promising to improve Thai lives despite her limited experience. Her father, Thaksin, recently received a royal pardon after returning from exile last year. AFP

A UN report reveals escalating war crimes in Myanmar, including torture, sexual violence, and attacks on civilians by the military junta. The IIMM found evidence of brutal crimes, arbitrary detentions, and unfair trials across the country. The conflict has intensified since the 2021 coup, with the military struggling against armed resistance. While focusing on military crimes, the report also notes some war crimes committed by resistance groups. Deutsche Welle

Taiwan’s defense ministry reported a record 66 Chinese military aircraft around the island in 24 hours, with 56 crossing the median line. This follows reported Chinese exercises involving the aircraft carrier Shandong in nearby waters. China continues to assert its claim over Taiwan, while tensions in the region, including with the Philippines, remain high over territorial disputes in the South China Sea.Source:Daily Star

Taiwan’s defense ministry reported detecting 62 Chinese military aircraft around the island in the past 24 hours. This comes amid heightened tensions following the inauguration of Taiwan’s new leader, Lai Ching-te, whom Beijing considers a separatist. China has increased pressure on Taiwan, including recent war games. Additionally, a Taiwanese fishing boat was seized by Chinese coast guard near Kinmen islands, with Taiwan demanding its release. Source AFP

UN expert Thomas Andrews warns that Myanmar’s Rakhine State is facing a situation reminiscent of the 2016-2017 violence against Rohingya. The Arakan Army’s recent gains against the military junta have led to increased tensions. Reports of forced conscription of Rohingya youth and potential retaliation by Arakan community raise concerns. The humanitarian situation is dire, with thousands displaced. Andrews fears a downward spiral of violence and urges immediate attention to the deteriorating conditions in Rakhine State. AFP

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi met Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan at BAF Headquarters. They discussed bilateral interests. Admiral Tripathi, accompanied by his spouse and delegation, arrived in Dhaka on June 30 for an official visit. The visit is expected to enhance cooperation and strengthen the friendly relationship between India and Bangladesh, potentially improving military ties between the two neighboring countries.

North Korea test-fired a suspected hypersonic missile Wednesday, which failed mid-air after traveling 250 km. The launch followed recent trash-laden balloon incidents that disrupted flights at South Korea’s Incheon airport. In response to ongoing tensions, Seoul suspended a military agreement and resumed border propaganda broadcasts. The failed missile test comes amid planned joint military drills between South Korea, the US, and Japan, which North Korea routinely criticizes as invasion rehearsals. AFP

A fire erupted at a lithium battery factory in Hwaseong, South Korea, on Monday morning. Initial reports from Yonhap news agency suggested around 20 bodies were found, while a local fire official stated nine deaths and four injuries. The blaze, now largely extinguished, reportedly started after battery cell explosions in a warehouse containing about 35,000 units. Source Reuters

Recent exam scandals in India have thrown the futures of millions of students into uncertainty. Major government-run exams for teaching and medical college admissions have been compromised by alleged paper leaks and cheating. The UGC-NET exam for teaching positions was cancelled after 900,000 candidates took it, while the NEET-UG medical entrance exam faced widespread cheating allegations. These incidents highlight the ongoing crisis in India’s examination system, affecting students’ careers and aspirations. BBC

South Korea fired warning shots after North Korean soldiers briefly crossed the heavily fortified border, marking the third such incursion this month. North Korea has been reinforcing its border, leading to accidental casualties among its troops. Tensions between the two Koreas are high, with North Korea hosting Russian leader Putin and signing a mutual defense agreement. Additionally, a “balloon war” continues, with activists in South Korea sending propaganda balloons northward, prompting retaliatory actions from North Korea. AFP

Myanmar authorities arrested 22 people in Mandalay for marking Aung San Suu Kyi’s 79th birthday by wearing flowers in their hair, her signature look. Suu Kyi, detained since the 2021 military coup, remains imprisoned serving a 27-year sentence after a trial deemed a sham. Her birthday celebrations highlight the ongoing crackdown on dissent by the junta amid an armed uprising against military rule. The junta has rebuffed requests to meet Suu Kyi, who has reportedly suffered health issues in detention.