Politics news · 20 October 2026
Ukraine Launches Record 1,000-Drone Strike on Russia, Trump Slams Kyiv
Ukraine fired over 1,000 drones at Russia in one of its largest ever aerial attacks, hitting an oil terminal and other infrastructure in St. Petersburg, killing at least one person. US President Trump sharply criticised Kyiv, questioning whether President Zelensky wants peace.
Paris Riots Prompt French Curfews; Trump Says 'Europe Is Finished' Without Tighter Borders
Violent riots that erupted across France over the weekend triggered curfews in Bordeaux, Lille, and other cities, with nearly 120 people arrested. US President Trump intervened publicly, urging President Macron to close France's borders and warning that Europe faces collapse without mass deportations.
Trump Endorses Netanyahu Nine Days Before Israeli Election
US President Donald Trump publicly backed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for re-election on Truth Social, calling him a 'Great Warrior Prime Minister' and warning Israeli voters that choosing a different leader could jeopardise future US–Israel military cooperation against Iran. Polls show Netanyahu's coalition still short of a majority ahead of the October 27 vote.
Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro Trade Insults in Brazil's Only Pre-Runoff Debate
Incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and right-wing challenger Flávio Bolsonaro clashed bitterly in their first televised debate ahead of Brazil's October 25 presidential runoff, trading accusations of lying and corruption. Polls give Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, a narrow edge at 51 to 49 percent.
UN Food Agency Cuts Gaza Aid to 500,000 People Amid Funding Crisis
The UN World Food Programme announced it is reducing food assistance to 500,000 Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank due to a severe funding shortfall, partly caused by US cuts to UN contributions. Rations for those still receiving aid will be halved, and daily hot meals will fall from 250,000 to 150,000.