Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán claimed a significant victory following a meeting with former President Donald Trump, asserting an indefinite exemption from US sanctions on Russian energy imports. However, the US has since clarified the agreement is temporary. Meanwhile, Ukraine faces escalating attacks on its railway system and residential areas, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemning recent strikes in Kyiv. In other news, a tragic bus crash in Stockholm resulted in multiple casualties, and a blast in a police station in Kashmir killed nine people. The US is also planning a divided future for Gaza, while a young journalist from Gaza received recognition for her courageous reporting.

Hungary's Energy Deal with Trump
Viktor Orbán has touted a successful meeting with Donald Trump, claiming he secured a verbal agreement for Hungary to receive an indefinite exemption from US sanctions on Russian oil and gas imports. This deal is seen as crucial for Orbán, who is facing parliamentary elections next year. However, the US administration has since stated that Hungary's exemption is only for one year, leading to confusion and skepticism regarding Orbán's claims. The Hungarian foreign minister insisted on the validity of Orbán's assertions, while diplomatic sources in Washington expressed doubts about Orbán's electoral prospects.

Escalating Attacks on Ukraine's Rail Network
Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba reported a threefold increase in attacks on the country's railway system since July, with damages totaling approximately $1 billion. The railways are vital for transporting goods, including military supplies, as most civilian airports remain closed due to the ongoing conflict. Reports indicate that Russian forces are now specifically targeting trains and railway workers, prompting Ukraine to enhance security measures, including equipping trains with electronic defense systems.

Kyiv Under Fire: Civilian Casualties and Calls for Support
In a recent attack on Kyiv, President Zelenskyy condemned Russia's actions as "deliberate, calculated and wicked," following strikes that killed six and injured dozens. The attacks involved drones and missiles targeting residential areas, further stressing the need for enhanced air defense systems from Western allies. Zelenskyy has called for increased sanctions against Russia and emphasized Ukraine's commitment to retaliating against Russian military targets.

Tragic Incident in Stockholm
A bus crashed into a bus stop in Stockholm, resulting in at least six fatalities and numerous injuries. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed condolences, stating that the cause of the crash is still under investigation, with initial reports indicating no evidence of a deliberate attack. Emergency services are working to manage the aftermath of the incident, which has drawn national attention and concern.

Kashmir Police Station Explosion
A catastrophic explosion at a police station in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed nine people and injured 32 others. The blast occurred while forensic experts were examining confiscated explosives, and authorities have ruled out foul play, labeling it an accident. The incident follows a recent car explosion in New Delhi linked to militant activities, prompting heightened security measures and investigations in the region.

US Military Plans for Gaza
The US is developing plans for the long-term division of Gaza into a "green zone" for reconstruction under international and Israeli military control, and a "red zone" left in ruins. This strategy raises questions about Washington's commitment to establishing a lasting peace in the region. The US aims to form an international stabilization force to facilitate reconstruction but has ruled out deploying American troops or funding for rebuilding efforts.

Recognition for Courageous Journalism
Malak A Tantesh, the Guardian's former Gaza correspondent, was named young journalist of the year at the UK Media Freedom awards. Tantesh's reporting from Gaza highlighted the harrowing experiences of civilians during the conflict, earning her recognition for her bravery and dedication to journalism under perilous conditions.

Wrap-up
These developments reflect a world grappling with complex geopolitical tensions, domestic tragedies, and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. As nations navigate these challenges, the impact on civilians continues to be profound, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic resolutions and humanitarian support.

Sources
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team