Putin thanks xi, his 'dear friend', for warm welcome to China

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping for the warm reception during his visit to China, Reuters reported.

In a meeting, Putin referred to Xi as his “dear friend” and praised the historically high level of strategic cooperation between Russia and China. He highlighted the depth of bilateral ties, describing them as exceptionally close.

Putin emphasized that their frequent and open communication reflects the strong relationship between the two nations, signaling continued collaboration on global and regional issues.

The visit underscores Russia and China’s growing alignment on political, economic, and security matters amid shifting international dynamics, according to Reuters.

 

Xi to flaunt China's vision of new global order at military parade

Chinese President Xi Jinping will host a massive military parade on September 3 in Beijing, marking 80 years since Japan’s World War II surrender. The event, highlighting China’s growing military capabilities, aims to project the nation’s vision for a new global order, according to Reuters

Over 20 foreign leaders, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, are expected, underscoring China’s ties with authoritarian states. The parade will showcase advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles and drones, while promoting China’s own historical narrative of the war.

While critics, particularly from Taiwan, decry the $5bn cost as a display of military assertiveness, the event signals China’s ambition to challenge US influence and assert itself in global politics, Reuters reported.

 

India-US Launch 21st Yudh Abhyas military exercise amid Trump tariff tensions

An Indian Army contingent has arrived at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, for the 21st edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas with US forces, running from September 1–14. The drills focus on heliborne operations, mountain warfare, unmanned aerial systems, and joint tactical exercises to enhance multi-domain readiness and UN peacekeeping capabilities, Firstpost reported.

The exercise takes place amid US-India trade tensions following President Trump’s proposed 50 percent tariff on Indian goods. Defense officials stress that despite these disputes, the India-US strategic partnership, especially in defense cooperation, remains strong. The Indian contingent, from the Madras Regiment, is training alongside US troops from the Arctic Wolves Brigade Combat Team.

According to Firstpost, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the collaboration on social media, emphasizing continued military preparedness.

 

Chicago braces for National Guard amid fears of Trump 'invasion' plan

Chicago is on alert as President Trump plans to send National Guard troops and federal immigration agents to tackle crime and undocumented immigration. ICE agents handle deportations, CBP agents monitor borders, and the National Guard would assist locally, according to CNN.

Governor J.B. Pritzker called the plan an “invasion,” while Mayor Brandon Johnson is preparing city agencies to protect residents. Communities are protesting, worried about civil rights and militarization. Legal experts warn of possible constitutional conflicts, highlighting a tense standoff between federal and local authorities.