Saudi Press

Saudi Arabia and the world
Sunday, Dec 21, 2025

Detentions in Istanbul, Deadly Missile Strike in Ukraine, and Saudi Arabia's Fintech Boom

Turkish Authorities Detain Kosovan for Alleged Mossad Financial Network; Russian Strike in Ukraine Kills 41, Injures 180.
In Istanbul, Turkish authorities have detained Liridon Rexhepi, a Kosovan national, for allegedly managing the financial network of Israel's Mossad intelligence agency in Turkey, part of a broader crackdown that has seen over 20 detentions this year.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine, a devastating Russian missile strike in Poltava resulted in 41 deaths and 180 injuries, making it one of the deadliest attacks since the conflict began, with President Zelensky announcing an investigation.

Shifting to the Czech Republic, a teenage girl was detained after injuring two children in a knife attack at a school in Domazlice; fortunately, the victims are now in home care, as confirmed by regional governor Rudolf Spotak.

On a different note, Saudi Arabia is experiencing a fintech boom, highlighted at the 24Fintech Conference with $1.84 billion in investments since 2018, the upcoming launch of Samsung Pay, and ambitious goals for 2030, all part of the Vision 2030 transformation.

In political developments, Saudi Arabia's Cabinet, under King Salman, reaffirmed efforts to halt Israeli aggression against Palestinians and emphasized unity in Arab-Islamic support, with discussions held between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and leaders of Turkey and Egypt.

Finally, the Saudi Alimony Fund has significantly supported 29,000 families and ensured financial stability through a swift electronic system, enhancing social responsibility and ease of access via the Nafaqah.sa platform.
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