Global Tensions and Alliances: A World News Overview

This briefing covers recent world news including South Korea's protest against North Korean troops in Russia, debates on women's roles in the Catholic Church, U.S. diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, the passing of Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen, Moldova's EU referendum, Israeli military actions in Gaza, King Charles' encounters in Australia, poll standings between Harris and Trump, unrest in Mozambique, and U.S. support for Ukraine.

South Korea's diplomatic tensions with Russia have escalated, as the country protests against the alleged deployment of North Korean troops in Ukraine. The Russian government has remained non-committal but emphasizes its ties with Pyongyang.

In ecclesiastical matters, Pope Francis faces backlash over the exclusion of women from clergy discussions, a contentious topic at the Vatican's Synod of Bishops. Women's roles in the Catholic Church remain a hotly debated issue.

As U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken intensifies diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, he aims to foster negotiations to end the Gaza conflict, amidst escalating Israeli actions against Hamas and Hezbollah.

(With inputs from agencies.)