A European Union delegation, including European Parliament Vice President Katarina Barley, visited jailed Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, arrested on corruption and terrorism charges. Critics argue the move is politically motivated to suppress opposition to President Erdoğan. İmamoğlu’s suspension triggered widespread protests, with thousands rallying across Turkey. Authorities responded with tear gas and mass arrests, escalating tensions. The delegation condemned the arrest, emphasizing concerns over Turkey’s democratic institutions. The CHP nominated İmamoğlu as their 2028 presidential candidate despite his detention. The situation has drawn significant international attention, pressuring Turkey’s government to address concerns over political repression.
KYRGYZSTAN, TAJIKISTAN SIGN BORDER AGREEMENT
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have signed a landmark border agreement, ending decades of disputes over their 1,000-kilometer frontier. Presidents Emomali Rahmon and Sadyr Japarov ratified the treaty, allowing families separated since 2021 to reunite. Previous clashes over water and land resources had escalated into violent conflicts, causing casualties and mass evacuations. The agreement includes land swaps and shared-use zones, promoting regional stability. Alongside the treaty, 15 cooperation deals were signed to enhance trade and infrastructure. This historic resolution marks the last major border settlement in Central Asia, paving the way for long-term peace and economic collaboration.
MELONI: RUSSIA WILL HONOUR PEACE
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that Russia would honour a peace deal in Ukraine if U.S. President Donald Trump brokers the agreement. Speaking to The Financial Times, Meloni expressed confidence in Trump’s ability to secure a lasting resolution with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry representative, Georgiy Tykhiy, indicated that Kyiv would not comply with a ceasefire agreement concerning Black Sea warships. The statement highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and differing perspectives on the potential for diplomatic resolution in the Ukraine conflict.
SWEDISH JOURNALIST ARRESTED IN TURKEY
Swedish journalist Joakim Medin has been arrested in Turkey on charges of “membership of an armed terrorist organization” and “insulting the president.” Medin, who was reporting on protests against Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s arrest, was missing for two days before his detention was confirmed. Reporters Without Borders condemned the arrest, citing increasing censorship and legal suppression of journalists in Turkey. BBC correspondent Mark Lowen was also deported, highlighting growing concerns over press freedom. Over 1,400 people have been detained in recent protests, including several journalists, some of whom were later released but still face legal action.
NEPAL MONARCHY PROTEST TURNS VIOLENT
At least two people were killed in Nepal as protests demanding the return of the monarchy turned violent. The clashes erupted in Kathmandu when pro-monarchist demonstrators, supporting former King Gyanendra Shah, drove into a police barricade. Authorities responded with tear gas and water cannons. A protester died in hospital, and a journalist was killed when a fire broke out at a media building. The government has imposed curfews in several areas. Counter-protests in support of Nepal’s republic also took place, highlighting the deep political divide. The monarchy was abolished in 2008, but calls for its return have resurfaced.
