Here's a quick look at some of the top stories making headlines around the world.
UK Aid Budget Slashed
Britain's overseas aid budget is set to plummet to its lowest level in a generation. Keir Starmer's decision to divert funds to defense will reduce aid to developing countries from 0.58% to just 0.3% of national income. This move has sparked controversy, with cabinet ministers fearing a loss of "soft power" and increased migration. Humanitarian groups have also voiced strong concerns.
The last time the UK's aid contribution dipped below 0.3% was back in 1999. In 2023, the total aid spend was £15.34 billion, with nearly a third used to support refugees and asylum seekers within the UK.
"This decision will have a devastating impact on the world's poorest," warned one aid agency spokesperson.
Briton Jailed in Russia
James Scott Rhys Anderson, a 22-year-old British citizen, has been sentenced to 19 years in a Russian prison. Anderson was captured while fighting for Ukraine in the Kursk region and charged with terrorism and "mercenary activities."
Anderson, from Banbury, Oxfordshire, was fighting as part of Ukraine's cross-border offensive when he was apprehended by Russian forces.
London Student Convicted of Rapes
In a shocking case, Zhenhao Zou, a 28-year-old PhD student in London, has been convicted of 11 rapes on 10 women across London and China. Zou was described in court as "every woman's nightmare" for his disturbing crimes of drugging and filming his victims.
The jury reached its verdict after more than 18 hours of deliberation. The details of the case are graphic and disturbing.
Putin's Intervention
Reports suggest that Vladimir Putin personally intervened to help a 9-year-old boy who was severely injured in a dog attack. The boy's face was torn off by two huskies, leaving his father, Valentin Korolev, distraught.
The exact nature of Putin's intervention remains unclear, but the story has generated significant attention.
Starmer Praises Troops
Finally, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has praised the "sacrifice" of British troops who died in Afghanistan and Iraq. His remarks are seen as an oblique criticism of Vance.