Lithuania has announced stringent measures to counter the increasing incursions of helium weather balloons from Belarus, which are being used for cigarette smuggling. Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene declared that the Lithuanian army is prepared to take severe actions, including shooting down these balloons, to protect its airspace. The decision follows multiple disruptions at Vilnius Airport, which was forced to close several times over the past week, affecting 112 flights and over 16,500 passengers. Additionally, border checkpoints with Belarus have been closed indefinitely in response to the ongoing violations. Ruginiene emphasized that while diplomats, EU citizens, and Lithuanians will still be permitted to cross the border, all other movements will be restricted. She stated, ‘We are sending a clear signal to Belarus that no hybrid attack will be tolerated, and we will take the strictest measures to prevent such incidents.’ Lithuania also plans to consult its NATO allies regarding the threat posed by these balloons and may consider invoking NATO’s Article 4, which allows member states to request consultations on security concerns. The phenomenon is not new, with 544 balloons recorded entering Lithuania from Belarus this year alone, following 966 incidents in 2024. Similar airspace violations have also been reported in other European cities, including Copenhagen and Munich.
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Former senior Chinese legislator expelled from CPC, public office
In a significant move reflecting the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) commitment to discipline and integrity, Jiang Chaoliang, a former high-ranking legislator, has been expelled from the CPC and dismissed from public office. The decision, announced on Monday, follows a thorough investigation into Jiang’s severe violations of Party discipline and laws. Jiang, who previously served on the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) and as vice-chairperson of the NPC Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, was found to have engaged in extensive power-for-money deals and family corruption. The investigation revealed that Jiang exploited his positions to secure benefits for others in areas such as business operations, loan approvals, project contracting, and job promotions, accepting substantial illegal gains in return. His illicit assets will be confiscated, and the case will be handed over to judicial authorities for prosecution. This action underscores the CPC’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and its dedication to maintaining the Party’s integrity and public trust.
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US detains British journalist during tour after Israel criticism
A British Muslim journalist, Sami Hamdi, was detained by US authorities on Sunday at San Francisco International Airport, sparking widespread condemnation from civil rights groups. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) alleges that Hamdi’s detention was a direct retaliation for his vocal criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza during a speaking tour in the United States. Hamdi, the editor-in-chief of The International Interest, had addressed a CAIR gala in Sacramento on Saturday, where he condemned what he described as Israel’s genocide in Gaza. He was scheduled to speak at another CAIR event in Florida on Sunday before his detention. CAIR has labeled the incident an “abduction” and a blatant attack on free speech, calling for his immediate release. The organization emphasized that Hamdi’s only “crime” was criticizing a foreign government accused of genocide. The detention has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates, who view it as part of a broader pattern of silencing dissent against Israeli policies. Meanwhile, Amy Mekelburg, founder of the pro-Israel group RAIR Foundation, claimed credit for Hamdi’s arrest, accusing him of legitimizing Jihadi networks and aligning with the Muslim Brotherhood. Mekelburg called for Hamdi’s deportation, alleging that he was promoting anti-American ideologies. The incident has reignited debates over free speech and the influence of pro-Israel advocacy groups in US policy. Human Rights Watch has condemned the Trump administration’s actions, citing a climate of fear created by the arrests of non-citizen students and scholars for expressing political views. Similar crackdowns on pro-Palestinian voices have been reported in the UK, where the government has criminalized support for Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act. Amnesty International has criticized these measures as disproportionate and absurd.
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Nigerian billionaire plans expansion of Africa’s biggest oil refinery
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual and owner of the continent’s largest refinery, has announced plans to significantly expand the facility’s capacity. The Dangote Refinery, located in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, will increase its output from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day. This ambitious expansion aims to address the rising fuel demands both within Africa and internationally. Dangote emphasized that, upon completion, the refinery will surpass India’s Jamnagar refinery as the largest single-site refinery globally. Nigeria, despite being one of Africa’s leading oil producers, has long relied on imported refined petroleum products due to inefficiencies in its state-run refineries. The Dangote Refinery, which commenced operations in January 2024, has already played a pivotal role in meeting local and international fuel needs. However, Dangote stressed that further expansion is essential to keep pace with growing demands. The $19 billion project, which took nearly a decade to complete, reflects a significant vote of confidence in Nigeria’s and Africa’s energy future. While the expansion is widely praised, details regarding its timeline and financing remain undisclosed, according to Ikemesit Effiong, a partner at Lagos-based SBM Intelligence research firm.
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Xinjiang’s living Muqam bridges past and future
Muqam, a centuries-old musical tradition from Xinjiang, China, seamlessly integrates singing, dancing, and instrumental music into a captivating performance art. Recently, musician Wang Jiangjiang met with Ilham, a renowned Muqam expert who has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting this cherished cultural heritage. Ilham shared that Muqam is not static but continues to evolve, adapting to modern times while retaining its historical essence. This dynamic evolution makes Muqam a living bridge between the past and the future, ensuring its relevance for generations to come. The art form, with its enchanting melodies and graceful movements, stands as one of China’s most treasured cultural gems. Through the efforts of passionate individuals like Ilham, Muqam remains a vibrant testament to Xinjiang’s rich cultural legacy.
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20th anniversary: Emirates International School celebrates global education excellence
Emirates International School – Meadows, a beacon of international education, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and community involvement, the school has established itself as a leader in future-focused education. With a diverse student body representing over 88 nationalities, the institution fosters a multicultural environment that embraces global perspectives as a cornerstone of its educational philosophy. Recognized as an IB World School and accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), the school has consistently achieved ‘Very Good’ ratings from the KHDA. To commemorate this milestone, Emirates International School – Meadows is offering 20 exclusive scholarships to outstanding students, underscoring its dedication to nurturing the next generation of global leaders. School Principal Ian Ward emphasized the dual focus of the anniversary celebrations: reflecting on the school’s journey and investing in the future. Graduates of the school have consistently outperformed global averages in the IB Diploma Programme, securing placements at prestigious universities such as Stanford, Oxford, King’s College London, and the University of Toronto. Admissions for the 2026-27 academic year are now open, and interested families can contact the school for more information on scholarships or to schedule a tour.
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Kurdish PKK militants withdraw from Turkey as part of disarmament
In a significant development, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a militant group engaged in a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state, has announced its withdrawal from Turkey as part of a comprehensive disarmament process. This decision follows a call from the group’s imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, in May 2025, urging an end to armed struggle. The conflict, which began in 1984, has claimed over 40,000 lives. The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the European Union, has been based in northern Iraq in recent years, with Turkey conducting regular military strikes against its bases. In July 2025, the group symbolically burned some weapons as a gesture of goodwill. During a recent event in the Qandil Mountains, the PKK’s stronghold, a statement was read declaring the group’s commitment to laying the foundations for a ‘free, democratic, and brotherly life.’ The PKK emphasized the need for Turkey to facilitate its transition into democratic politics through integration laws. President Tayyip Erdogan’s communications director, Burhanettin Duran, welcomed the withdrawal, describing it as a positive step toward lasting peace. The PKK’s shift from seeking an independent state to advocating for greater Kurdish rights and limited autonomy marks a significant evolution in its objectives. The resolution of this conflict could have far-reaching implications for the region, including neighboring Syria, where the US supports Syrian Kurdish forces that Turkey considers a PKK offshoot.
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British Prime Minister Starmer arrives in Turkey to discuss Eurofighter jet deal
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ankara, Turkey, on Monday to advance negotiations on a multi-billion-dollar deal for the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, aimed at bolstering Turkey’s air defense capabilities. The visit underscores the UK’s strategic efforts to strengthen bilateral ties with Turkey, a key NATO ally, while navigating complex regional dynamics. Starmer is set to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss both regional and bilateral issues, including the potential sale of the advanced fighter jets. The Eurofighter Typhoon, developed by a consortium led by Britain’s BAE Systems, has been a focal point of discussions since a preliminary agreement was signed in July, following Germany’s decision to lift its opposition to the deal. Turkey views the acquisition of Eurofighters as an interim solution until its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet becomes operational, expected no earlier than 2028. Additionally, Turkey seeks reentry into the U.S.-led F-35 program, from which it was excluded in 2019 due to its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. During his visit, Starmer toured the Turkish Aerospace Industries facility, receiving a briefing on the KAAN project. The trip, however, is set against a backdrop of political tensions, as Turkish prosecutors recently filed new espionage charges against Istanbul’s jailed mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure. The UK has expressed concerns over Turkey’s human rights record, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and fair trials. Despite these challenges, Starmer remains optimistic about finalizing the defense deal, highlighting the coexistence of economic partnership and candid dialogue on contentious issues.
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Dubai Heights Academy reaches new heights with world-class new secondary building
Dubai Heights Academy, a British Curriculum school in Al Barsha South rated ‘Very Good’ by the KHDA, has taken a significant leap forward in educational excellence with the inauguration of its world-class secondary building in August 2025. Designed to foster the next generation of innovators and leaders, the facility boasts cutting-edge laboratories and studios for science, computer science, food technology, music, and drama. Additionally, it features a 380-seat auditorium, design and technology spaces for product design, electronics, textiles, graphics, and robotics, as well as top-tier sports and recreational amenities, including a multi-purpose indoor sports hall, rooftop court, outdoor sports field, and a 25-metre swimming pool. The school’s philosophy, ‘Every Child, Every Mind, Everybody Matters,’ is embedded in every aspect of the building’s design. Beyond academics, Dubai Heights Academy is renowned for its exceptional wellbeing programs and unique opportunities, such as partnerships with MIT and the Tommy Fleetwood Academy. School Principal Alison Lamb expressed pride in the transformative milestone, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to enriching the student experience. With discounted fees starting at Dh30,000, the academy continues to be a leading affordable British curriculum school in Dubai. Prospective families are encouraged to book a tour at www.dubaiheightsacademy.com.
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Czech president asks populist leader Andrej Babiš to form a new government
In a significant political development, Czech President Petr Pavel has formally requested former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš to establish a new government following his party’s triumph in the recent parliamentary elections. Babiš, a populist billionaire and leader of the ANO (YES) party, staged a remarkable comeback in the October 3-4 ballot, securing 34.51% of the vote and outperforming the pro-Western conservative coalition led by outgoing Prime Minister Petr Fiala.