UK Politics & Defence: The UK defence investment plan faces fresh scrutiny after a reported £1bn uplift, with critics saying it still falls far short of earlier needs and Nato targets. Cybersecurity & Lawmaking: A debate is growing over slow, outdated legislative processes that struggle to keep up with fast-moving cyber threats. India—Politics vs Execution: Kerala’s long-stalled “Kochi Central” rail project is blamed on entrenched encroachment and political reluctance to confront it. India—Political Theatre: A Telangana road renamed “Donald Trump Avenue” near the US consulate spotlights how symbolism is being used to court investment and diaspora attention. Kerala—Corruption Probe: The Sabarimala gold scam investigation reportedly links a third LDF-era board chief, raising questions about oversight failures. International—Presidential Power: Peru’s president-elect Keiko Fujimori vows “order and hope” after a razor-thin win. El Salvador: Bukele registers for a 2027 third term after constitutional changes open indefinite re-election. Global—Democracy & Speech: Australia charges a Gaza flotilla grandmother under hate-speech rules, while NATO parliamentary leaders push for stronger defence unity. Africa—Elections & Stability: Somalia’s electoral standoff is raising fears of renewed instability as security operations against al-Shabaab continue. South Asia—Opposition Pressure: India’s opposition parties send a joint letter to the Chief Justice over the Election Commission’s SIR process, escalating the fight over election rules. Europe—Rule of Law & Politics: Serbia’s Vučić resignation pledge is being read as a tactical move to manage the calendar and preserve leverage. South Africa: DA leaders dismiss claims of impropriety tied to a PR firm, arguing lobbying is normal in government. US Courts: The Alaska Supreme Court keeps two Dan Sullivans on the Senate primary ballot, complicating GOP strategy.