The world in brief: Saudi Arabia closes airspace to US, Trump says Ukraine is delaying peace deal, other stories
Saudi Arabia says US not allowed to use its airspace to attack Iran
Saudi Arabia has told Iran it will not allow its airspace or territory to be used for any military action against Tehran as regional tensions escalate, according to sources cited by AFP.
Two sources said the message was delivered directly to Iranian officials, adding that Riyadh had made clear it would not participate in or encourage any attacks on Iran. This revelation comes as United States President Donald Trump has warned of possible military action if Iran intensifies its crackdown on protesters.
Saudi Arabia hosts US military assets as part of Washington's presence in the Gulf, raising concerns that the kingdom could be drawn into a wider conflict despite its declared status.
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Trump says Ukraine, not Russia, is blocking peace talks
Donald Trump has said Ukraine is blocking efforts to end the war with Russia, a view that contrasts with European allies who say Moscow has no interest in peace.
Speaking to Reuters, Trump said Russia's President Vladimir Putin was willing to make a deal, while Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky was “less willing.” His comments point to new frustrations with Kiev despite recent efforts to stabilize relations.
Iran warns of retaliation if US withdraws some personnel from the region
Iran has warned neighboring countries that it would target American bases if the United States launched military attacks, as Washington began withdrawing some personnel from its bases in the Middle East.
A US official said the move was a precautionary measure amid rising tensions. It is reported that Britain is also removing some employees from an airport in Qatar. Western officials say signs point to increasing pressure but stop short of confirming an imminent attack.
Tesla agrees to mediate in US racism lawsuit
Tesla has agreed to mediate with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in a lawsuit that accuses the company of allowing widespread racial harassment at its California factory.
The EEOC said mediation could begin in the coming months, putting the court deadline on hold to prioritize settlement talks.
European troops deployed in Greenland amid Trump's takeover rhetoric
A small group of European troops have arrived in Greenland in a symbolic show of support for the Arctic region, as tensions rise over Donald Trump's new claims to the island.
French and German personnel landed in Nuuk this week, joining other European countries, in what officials describe as a reconnaissance and training mission, underscoring the expansion of transatlantic divisions over Greenland's future.
