Times of India

Gold prices in Egypt rose sharply on August 29, 2025, with 21-karat gold hitting EGP 4,650, following a 2% interest rate cut by the Central Bank. The move, aimed at boosting economic activity, coincides with global gold gains amid a weaker dollar. Lower rates typically drive gold demand, especially as inflation eases and local GDP growth improves.

JD Vance has strongly criticized a Politico report questioning Steve Witkoff's role in Russia-Ukraine talks, labeling it a "foreign influence operation." Vance defended Witkoff's progress in negotiations, highlighting narrowed issues like security guarantees and territorial concessions. The controversy has sparked online abuse targeting the Politico reporter, raising concerns about backchannel diplomacy efforts.

President Trump's unilateral cancellation of $4.9 billion in foreign aid has ignited a firestorm of criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, with Senator Collins deeming the move unlawful. Schumer warned of a potential government shutdown this fall, threatening a standoff in upcoming federal funding negotiations if the rescission isn't reversed.

Recent Ukrainian drone strikes on the Druzhba pipeline, which disrupted Hungary's Russian oil supply, have escalated tensions between Budapest and Kyiv. Hungary condemned the attacks, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban enlisting Donald Trump's support, while Ukraine's President Zelenskyy dismissed claims of intentional targeting. Hungary's dependence on Russian oil and its veto of Ukraine's EU accession talks further strain relations.

A 23-year-old shooter, once a student, opened fire at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, killing two children and wounding fifteen others, along with three parishioners. FBI Director Kash Patel labeled the attack as domestic terrorism fueled by hate, citing anti-Catholic rhetoric and threats against former President Trump.

Bangladesh's Election Commission anticipates the upcoming national election to be the riskiest in its history, urging officials to prepare for unforeseen challenges amidst political instability. The election roadmap has received mixed reactions, with some parties welcoming it while others express reservations.

A US Senate delegation visited Taiwan to reaffirm the partnership and security agreement amid trade deal pursuits with the US by both Taiwan and China. Senator Wicker emphasized continued support through the National Defense Authorization Act and addressed concerns about US commitment under a potential Trump administration. China has voiced strong opposition to the growing ties between Washington and Taipei.

A LAPD police video revealed the fatal shooting of Gurpreet Singh, a 35-year-old Sikh man, after 911 calls reported him wielding a machete and threatening people. Singh, seen performing Gatka, charged at officers after a car chase, leading to the shooting. The incident is under investigation, with reviews to determine if the use of force was justified.

Sixteen Purebred Arabian horses will compete in Kazan, Russia, on August 30 for the tenth round of the 32nd UAE President’s Cup Series. The prestigious Group 1 race offers a $100,000 purse and continues the Cup’s mission to honour Arabian horse heritage worldwide. Top contenders include two-time winner Saher, with elite entries from leading Russian and international studs.

Donald Trump has reportedly cancelled the Secret Service protection extended to Kamala Harris by Joe Biden, exceeding the legally mandated six months post her vice presidency. Effective September 1, 2025, Harris will no longer receive Secret Service agents or threat intelligence, just before her national book tour promoting her memoir, "107 Days".

Following a devastating strike on Kyiv that resulted in numerous casualties, including children, the United Nations Security Council convened an emergency meeting to address the escalating crisis. Prompted by President Zelenskyy and allies, the session aimed to increase pressure on Russia amidst rising tensions. Simultaneously, Ukrainian envoys were scheduled to meet with Trump administration officials to explore potential mediation avenues.

The American Jewish Community (AJC) has voiced its concern over White House trade advisor Peter Navarro's remarks, who blamed India for fueling Russia's war in Ukraine. AJC criticized Navarro's statement, emphasizing that India, a strategic partner and sister democracy, should not be held responsible for Putin's actions. The community urged for a reset in the U.S.-India relationship.

Saudi Food and Drug Authority took strict action in July 2025. They closed 54 facilities for violating safety rules. Around 52 production lines were suspended. Expired products were seized. SFDA banned 40 tons of poultry due to salmonella. Inspections covered food plants and warehouses. The authority urges public to report violations. SFDA is committed to public health and safety.

​Those were the words Robin Westman scrawled in Cyrillic script before storming Annunciation Catholic School during Mass on August 27, 2025. Hours later, Westman was dead by suicide, leaving behind a city in grief, a nation reeling, and a handwritten chronicle of obsession and despair.

In Massachusetts, a teenager had a close call when his pickup truck rolled off a pier in Marshfield and plunged into the harbor. The vehicle narrowly missed his father's boat. The teen escaped through the rear window and was rescued by nearby fishermen. He was hospitalized for precautionary checks but sustained no serious injuries. Authorities confirmed the incident was accidental.