World | Deutsche Welle

Is Afghanistan-Pakistan conflict the 'new normal?' The worst outbreak of fighting in decades comes as Pakistan accuses the Taliban of harboring militant groups. Without a clear path towards reconciliation, the threat of protracted violence looms. Duterte drug war trial a 'huge step,' say families at ICC While supporters of jailed former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte rallied outside the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, victims' families recounted years of fear, loss and intimidation. Did Germany's Merz pull off business balancing act in China? Despite the cordial outcome of Chancellor Merz's business trip to Germany's largest trading partner and primary economic rival, a massive trade deficit and Chinese overcapacity remain key concerns. Africans in the Ukraine war: Recruited as cannon fodder A growing number of African families say relatives who sought work in Russia were forced into military service in Ukraine. Ethiopia's Tigray region could be on the brink of war, again In Tigray, people remain trapped in limbo as tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea escalate. While a fragile calm holds in Mekelle, many in Tigray fear war could return at any moment. Turkey's Ramadan directive reignites secularism debate A new directive encourages Ramadan-themed events and mosque visits in Turkish schools. Critics warn it pressures students and challenges secular principles, while the government says participation is voluntary. Pentagon pressures Anthropic in escalating AI showdown The row between Anthropic, a much vaunted AI startup, and the Trump administration, is sharply escalating. The Pentagon wants complete access to its models, despite safety and ethical concerns. Can President Kiir stabilize South Sudan? South Sudan's instability is deepening: a ninth finance minister since 2020, the suspended first vice president on trial for treason, and extreme violence in the country's largest state. Afghan Taliban attacks met with Pakistani strikes on Kabul The Taliban claimed to have captured several Pakistani checkpoints in border areas, killing and capturing soldiers. Pakistan meanwhile said it launched "strong and effective response" with explosions reported in Kabul. India and Bangladesh move towards resetting ties The resumption of visa services at both countries' consulates is a welcome sign, but analysts say there is a long way to go in rebuilding trust. Why Chad may be drawn into Sudan's war Chad has closed down its border with Sudan, saying it does not want the conflict to spread. Experts accuse it, however, of supplying arms to the RSF, one of the warring factions.