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Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu has warned that nuclear weapons could emerge in the Asia-Pacific region, citing the AUKUS pact and Japan and South Korea's preparations to host American nuclear arms. He also criticized Western policies, including missile defense deployments and the rejection of New START legacy, as destabilizing.
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu warned that a retaliatory strike on Kiev could occur at any moment, saying Russia has demonstrated its capabilities. He also addressed the Russian military base in Armenia and warned that Russia had seriously advised foreign ambassadors to leave Kiev.
EU foreign ministers gathered in Cyprus to discuss potential negotiations with Russia over Ukraine, with top diplomat Kaja Kallas warning against focusing on who would lead talks. Ukraine urged Europe to play a bigger role, but no decisions were made on an envoy or preconditions.
Iran and the US have exchanged new rounds of strikes, with Iran targeting US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain and Washington hitting Iranian drone operations, after President Trump dismissed reports of a near-term deal. The escalation threatens a fragile ceasefire and has sent oil prices surging.
Hong Kong's exports jumped nearly 43% year-on-year in April to HK$620.9 billion, driven by strong global demand for AI-related electronics, while imports rose 44.4%. Retail sales also extended their recovery with an 8.6% increase, marking a 12th consecutive month of growth.
Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed security forums and CIS meetings in late May, urging international cooperation to counter terrorism, cybercrime, and nuclear proliferation. He emphasized the need for a multipolar order based on equal and indivisible security, free from external pressure.
President Donald Trump threatened to use military force against Oman if it collaborates with Iran to control the Strait of Hormuz. The threat, made during a cabinet meeting, followed reports of talks between Oman and Iran over joint management of the strategic waterway. The US Treasury separately warned of sanctions against Oman if it facilitates tolls in the strait.
South Korean stocks fell on Thursday, breaking a four-day run of gains, as profit-taking in AI-related shares combined with renewed tensions between the United States and Iran. The KOSPI closed down 0.53 percent at 8,185.29, with heavy trading volume and active foreign and institutional selling.
South Korea has announced it will ease oil stockpiling requirements for private refiners from 40 days to 20 days, a move said to be part of its commitment to the IEA's collective oil release plan. The government has also extended its crude oil swap system with private firms until end of June, with officials stating that oil supplies for August are expected to be sufficient.
South Korea's central bank has lifted its 2026 economic growth forecast to 2.6 percent, up 0.6 percentage points, citing robust semiconductor exports. The bank also raised its inflation outlook to 2.7 percent, while highlighting uncertainties from Middle East tensions and a weak won.
An Australian woman who returned from Syria has been charged with being a member of the Islamic State group and entering a declared conflict zone. The 34-year-old, identified as Rayann El Houli, appeared in a Melbourne court to apply for bail, with her lawyer stating she renounces any allegiance to the group.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac met with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan in Seoul, asking for Singapore's support in creating conditions for dialogue with North Korea. Balakrishnan's visit followed stops in China and North Korea, where he met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui. Officials expressed hope for gradual engagement despite current frosty inter-Korean relations.
Oil prices rose on Thursday while Asian stocks mostly fell as fresh US strikes on Iran tested a shaky ceasefire. Brent crude climbed to $95.95 a barrel, while Iran's state media reported it fired at ships in the Strait of Hormuz and Kuwait said its air defenses responded to attacks.
The Bank of Korea kept its benchmark interest rate at 2.5 percent for an eighth consecutive meeting, citing Middle East uncertainty, while raising its 2026 growth forecast to 2.6 percent and its inflation projection to 2.7 percent. The central bank signaled it may hike rates if inflationary pressures continue to build.
India’s $10 billion plan to develop Great Nicobar Island into a military and logistics hub near the Strait of Malacca has gained momentum amid global energy tensions. But the project faces criticism from environmental groups and opposition leaders over its impact on indigenous tribes and forests.
The Bank of Korea kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.5% for the eighth straight meeting, as lingering Middle East uncertainty and rising inflation prompt a cautious stance. The central bank hinted at a possible hawkish shift while raising its 2026 growth outlook to 2.6%.
US President Donald Trump says Iran is 'very much intent' on a deal but his administration is 'not satisfied' with current terms. Trump vowed the Strait of Hormuz will remain open to all, as the White House dismissed Iranian reports of a provisional agreement as a 'complete fabrication.'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sent a letter to US President Donald Trump requesting additional Patriot air defense ammunition, citing critical shortages as Russia intensifies missile and drone attacks. The appeal, also addressed to Congress, underscores Ukraine's near-total reliance on US systems to counter ballistic missiles, even as diplomatic efforts to end the war remain stalled.
President Donald Trump told a cabinet meeting that the US is 'not satisfied' yet with the terms of a deal being negotiated with Iran, though Tehran is 'very much intent' on reaching an agreement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited 'some progress' in talks, while the White House has branded a reported draft agreement a 'complete fabrication'.
The Board of Peace, established by US President Donald Trump to oversee Gaza's reconstruction, has received no funds in its official World Bank-administered fund despite $17 billion in pledges. The shortfall underscores concerns about the board's structure and the lack of a viable political horizon, while Israel's military operations and humanitarian restrictions continue.