Saudi Arabia: 1.5 million join Hajj pilgrimage despite war
Saudi Arabia has been directly hit by missiles and drones during the Iran war, but the country is hosting the all-important Muslim pilgrimage anyway.
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New Chinese surveillance leaves foreigners nowhere to hide
A Chinese cybersecurity expert has revealed to DW details of China's new high-tech policing. From ski resort facial recognition to seats on a train, the system can track anyone and compile a "holistic profile."
Turkey: DW's Alican Uludag released, but trial continues
A Turkish court has allowed DW reporter Alican Uludag to leave detention as his contentious trial opens. He is accused of having "insulted" President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which in Turkey can carry a jail sentence.
Is the US deepening its military involvement in Nigeria?
Airstrikes in Nigeria led by the US have weakened the so-called Islamic State (IS) terror group. The joint operation shows an expanding US role, but analysts warn of limited long‑term impact and civilian risks.
Latvia scrambles NATO jets in drone alert, the latest of several in Baltic
Latvia's military said NATO planes responded to at least one drone flying in its airspace. It's the latest in a string of such incidents in the Baltic, one of which eventually toppled Latvia's government.
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Thailand revives bill to clear the air of toxic smog
Seasonal smog is a major public health problem in Thailand. Long-delayed legislation aims to stop air pollution before it starts, but enforcement could present a problem.
Montenegro at 20: EU ambitions and Serbian ties
Twenty years after seceding from the state union with Serbia, Montenegro is seen as a Western Balkan frontrunner for EU membership but remains marked by corruption, unresolved divisions and Serbia's political influence.
In Iran, internet access becomes a luxury for the few
Despite the ongoing internet blockade in Iran, access to the so-called "Internet-Pro" is available to select groups for a fee. Access to information and communication are increasingly becoming a luxury.
Who gets convicted in Nigeria's anti-corruption war?
The recent conviction of ex-power minister Saleh Mamman has rekindled debate over who is held accountable in Nigeria.
Turkey targets press freedom in trial of DW's Alican Uludag
DW correspondent Alican Uludag has been in custody in Turkey for three months, in part on charges of "insulting the president." He is set to appear in court for the first time on Thursday, though only via video link.
Numbers of Tibetan exiles plummet as China tightens grip
Fewer Tibetans are seeking exile, as escaping Beijing-controlled Tibet has become more complicated and dangerous. The drop raises questions about preserving the future of Tibetan culture.
Numbers of exiled Tibetans plummet as China tightens grip
Fewer Tibetans are seeking exile, as escaping Beijing-controlled Tibet has become more complicated and dangerous. The drop raises questions about preserving the future of Tibetan culture.
China's Africa trade push: Partnership or power grab?
China has opened its market to 53 African countries, calling it a "golden key" to prosperity. But while new opportunities emerge, analysts warn that the reality for African economies is more complex.
Hungary's new Prime Minister Magyar seeks to fix Poland ties
Peter Magyar hopes to mend relations with Poland during his first state visit to Warsaw. What lessons could he learn from Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk?
Rising Cuba-US tensions amid talk of drones, emergency plans
Cuba’s reported purchase of drones and renewed threats with the US are stoking fears of escalation. Amid blackouts and shortages, many Cubans expressed outrage at official advice to prepare for potential attack.
China's zero-tariff for Africa: Win-win or winner takes all?
China has opened its market to 53 African countries, calling it a “golden key” to prosperity. But while new opportunities emerge, analysts warn the reality for African economies is more complex.
NATO planes down suspected Ukrainian drone over Estonia
A NATO military jet has shot down a suspected Ukrainian drone in Estonian airspace. As Ukraine targets Russia's Baltic oil facilities more often and more intensely, more such drones are straying into allies' territory.
Iran war: Why is Trump blaming the Kurds?
Donald Trump says Kurdish forces kept US weapons meant for Iranian protesters, allegations Kurdish leaders categorically deny. Experts tell DW the president is scapegoating them for his own policy failures.
Czechia: Uproar over Sudeten German gathering in Brno
The first gathering of Sudeten Germans in Czechia since World War II is set to go ahead this weekend despite a political backlash that has exposed tensions over one of Central Europe's most painful historical legacies.
Sweden orders 4 frigates from French company Naval Group
Sweden plans to acquire four new frigates starting in 2030 in a deal worth billions. They will be the largest surface warships in Sweden's navy. The newest NATO member is rushing to build up its military capabilities.
San Diego mosque shooting to be investigated as hate crime
Teenage gunmen have shot dead three men at the Islamic Center of San Diego before killing themselves. The incident is being treated as a hate crime by investigators.
Can women's football help reconnect North and South Korea?
For the first time in more than seven years, North Korean athletes will compete in the South. Analysts are divided on whether it is a clever propaganda move by Pyongyang or a genuine step towards detente.
Can a women's football team reconnect North and South Korea?
For the first time in more than seven years, North Korean athletes will compete in the South. Analysts are divided on whether it is a clever propaganda move by Pyongyang or a genuine step towards detente.
China's moment? Putin heads to Beijing after Trump courts Xi
Just days after hosting Donald Trump, China's Xi Jinping is set to welcome Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The meetings underscore Beijing's growing role in a fractured geopolitical landscape.
Zambia's media freedom under scrutiny ahead of 2026 elections
As Zambia prepares for elections on August 13, there is growing debate over media freedom and fair political coverage. Media rights groups warn that legal, economic, and political pressures are mounting.
North Korea's new constitution deepens split with Seoul
Pyongyang's revised charter has dropped mentions of reunification with South Korea. Experts say the changes boost Kim Jong Un's nuclear authority and could heighten the risk of future border disputes.
Young Czechs drink less beer but risk other addictions
The Czech Republic, the beer world champion, has seen a record decline in consumption. Younger generations are drinking less. Breweries are worried, but health experts say it's good news.
Germany stakes claim in new space race
German companies of all sizes and all over the country are developing satellites and space applications. They want to be part of the lucrative industry, which is increasingly crucial for civilian and military purposes.
Young Czechs drink less beer, but risk other addictions
The Czech Republic, the beer world champion, has seen a record decline in consumption. Younger generations are drinking less. Breweries are worried, but health experts say it's good news.
North Korean women's football team makes rare visit to South
A North Korean women's football club has become the country's first group of athletes in eight years to visit the South.