Current World News Briefs: China Ends War Games, Chile Firefighter Linked to Wildfires, Thousands Protest Mass Tourism, Gaza Ceasefire Talks, Macron in New Caledonia, Hamas Claims Capture of Israeli Soldiers, Russian Attacks in Kharkiv, World Court Order on Rafah, North Korea Accuses US and South Korea, Ukrainian Attacks in Russia’s Belgorod Region

China recently concluded two days of war games around Taiwan, simulating attacks with bombers and practicing boarding ships, a move that Taiwan condemned as a “blatant provocation.” The drills included a surge of Chinese warplanes and warships, drawing criticism from Taiwan.

In Chile, a volunteer firefighter and a forestry official have been formally accused of involvement in setting wildfires that killed over 130 people in February. The accused individuals, Francisco Ignacio Mondaca and Francisco Pinto, are now facing legal action for their alleged roles in the devastating fires.

Meanwhile, thousands of protesters took to the streets in Spain’s Balearic Islands to rally against mass tourism ahead of the summer season. With signs reading “SOS Residents” and “Enough Mass Tourism,” demonstrators marched through Palma de Mallorca to voice their concerns over the negative impacts of tourism on the region.

In Gaza, ceasefire talks could soon resume as Israel carried out new attacks that resulted in over 40 deaths, according to Palestinian medics. Despite the ongoing violence, there are hopes for peace talks to resume next week following discussions between Israeli and Qatari officials.

French President Emmanuel Macron recently visited New Caledonia, a French-ruled Pacific island, to emphasize the region’s strategic importance in the face of China’s growing influence. Macron highlighted the need for a new Indo-Pacific strategy to counter China’s hegemonic ambitions.

Additionally, Hamas claimed to have captured Israeli soldiers during fighting in Gaza, although Israel denied the claim. In Ukraine, Russian attacks on a DIY store and residential area in Kharkiv resulted in at least six deaths and numerous injuries, sparking outrage and condemnation from local officials.

The World Court’s order to halt Israel’s military offensive on Rafah in Gaza was seen as a temporary measure by Israeli officials, allowing for some military action to continue. Meanwhile, North Korea accused the US and South Korea of ramping up reconnaissance activities near the inter-Korean border, warning of potential consequences if its sovereignty is violated.

Lastly, Ukrainian attacks in southern Russia’s Belgorod region led to the deaths of four residents, with regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov confirming the tragic incidents. The ongoing conflicts and tensions in various regions highlight the complexities and challenges faced by countries around the world.