Henri Astier

Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan have signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, declaring that an armed attack on any one of them will be treated as an attack on all three. The pact aims to strengthen collective deterrence and defense cooperation, although it does not specify each country’s obligations. Saudi Arabia seeks greater protection amid attacks and maritime disruption linked to the Iran conflict; Pakistan gains strategic support amid tensions with India and a growing diplomatic role; and Turkey may benefit through joint production, technology partnerships and defense acquisitions. Analysts say the agreement could increase the trio’s diplomatic and military influence and contribute to a more regionally driven security architecture, but its practical impact will depend on whether the framework becomes institutionalized. Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities are not expected to extend to the pact.

Russian ballistic‑missile strikes on Kyiv killed one person and injured at least 14 while damaging multiple buildings. Ukrainian forces intercepted many missiles and drones and struck Russian oil infrastructure, including Wildberries warehouses, causing deaths and major fires. Kyiv reported intensified Russian attacks across the week and continued its own long‑range drone operations targeting energy facilities, which it says fund Russia’s war effort.

Twin earthquakes in Venezuela have killed more than 1,700 people and left tens of thousands missing, with residents in hard‑hit areas such as La Guaira carrying out rescue operations themselves due to limited government support. An aftershock further unsettled communities already working with minimal equipment while delays in deploying heavy machinery hampered rescue efforts. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez said more than 25,000 personnel were assisting and announced a commission to assess structural safety. International aid has accelerated, including support from the US, UN, Mexico, El Salvador, the Netherlands and China, although hopes of finding survivors continue to fade as hundreds of aftershocks and widespread building collapses worsen conditions.

Large parts of Venezuela remain without adequate government assistance following twin earthquakes that killed more than 1,700 people and left tens of thousands missing. Local residents continue to lead rescue efforts with minimal equipment as frustration grows over slow and uneven deployment of heavy machinery and official responders. A significant aftershock added to anxiety, while international aid has increased, including U.S. funding, naval support, and additional contributions from other countries. UN officials warn that casualties are likely to rise as hundreds of aftershocks and widespread structural collapses hamper recovery operations.