Belarus joins Russia's nuclear drills for first time

Belarus participated in joint nuclear drills with Russia for the first time, according to Al Jazeera reporting. Analysts quoted in the report call this a risky move for Minsk. If Russia has indeed deployed nuclear weapons to Belarus as the headline suggests, it represents a significant shift in the military posture along NATO's eastern flank—though the actual status of any weapons transfer remains unclear from available reporting.

A senior U.S. official has suggested that American military sales to Taiwan may be paused to ensure enough weapons are available for operations involving Iran, according to Taiwan's government. Taiwan says it hasn't received official notification of any changes, but the comment raises questions about how the U.S. prioritizes arms deliveries when multiple global crises compete for limited stockpiles.

German companies are adapting to a major energy shock linked to the Strait of Hormuz, according to new confidence data that offers an early read on how businesses handle supply disruptions. The sentiment index edged slightly higher this month but remains near multi-year lows, suggesting fragile stability rather than recovery.

Pakistan is mediating ceasefire negotiations between the United States and Iran to end a conflict that has disrupted global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—the narrow waterway that carries about 20% of the world's oil and natural gas. The UAE's top diplomat now estimates there's a 50-50 chance of a peace deal, according to statements made Friday.

The acting US Navy Secretary told Congress that America has put a $14 billion weapons sale to Taiwan on hold to ensure sufficient munitions for ongoing operations against Iran. Taiwan—which says it hasn't been officially notified—is left waiting on a package it's been seeking approval for, while China watches and the US juggles competing security commitments.