Chinese President Xi Jinping is heading to Russia in October 2024 for the BRICS summit, marking his second visit since the Ukraine conflict began. This comes as the BRICS bloc, which challenges the Western-led global order, continues to expand, recently adding Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are discussing easing weapon restrictions for Ukraine, amid concerns over Iran's missile supply to Russia. This discussion follows visits to Kyiv by US and UK officials, where Ukraine reiterated its need for long-range missiles to counter Russian advances.

On the campaign trail, former President Donald Trump made headlines with events in Western states, including a fundraiser in California and a rally in Las Vegas. At the same time, Vice President Kamala Harris concentrated her efforts in Pennsylvania, reporting a significant fundraising lead after recent debates.

Shifting gears to global diplomacy, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun called for negotiations to resolve conflicts during the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing. He emphasized that promoting peace and dialogue is crucial, especially in light of ongoing wars in regions like Gaza and Ukraine.

In a tragic development, an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed three people, including a child, amid escalating cross-border violence. Hezbollah retaliated with rocket attacks, contributing to the significant casualties experienced since the conflict's escalation in early October.

Lastly, tensions between Russia and the UK have risen as Russia expelled six British diplomats over espionage and sabotage allegations. The FSB claims these diplomats aimed to escalate the regional political and military situation, with further expulsions hinted if similar activities are detected.