World Politics
Vietnam, Russia agree to sign nuclear power plant pact
Hanoi says it expects the first nuclear power plants to be online between 2030 and 2035.
Morning Report Essentials for Monday 12 May 2025
In today's episode, National has announced it is stepping up its commitment to pursue a ban on social media for under-16s, The New Zealand TV series, After the Party, has missed out on a BAFTA, at the… Audio
First white South Africans board plane for US under Trump refugee plan
Despite a wider freeze on refugees, Trump has called on the US to prioritise resettling Afrikaners, saying they are "victims of unjust racial discrimination".
How dictators are teaming up to undermine democracy
How today's dictators are forging powerful global alliances to weaken democracies from the inside out. Audio
Putin proposes direct peace talks with Ukraine
The talks have been tentatively scheduled for 15 May in Istanbul.
Military offensive launched against India, Pakistan says
At least 48 have been killed in clashes since Wednesday, according to estimates from both sides.
NZ cricketers leave India as threat of war intensifies
Five New Zealand players were in India at the IPL, which has been suspended under the spectre of war.
IPL reportedly suspended amid India-Pakistan tensions
India's cricket board has suspended the tournament, one of the world's richest sports leagues, amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, a source says.
Russia marks victory in WW2 as Ukraine war grinds on
The Kremlin said the military is doing everything it can to ensure security for the parade which Russia said was targeted in 2023 by Ukrainian drones.
'Farce': Ukraine says Russia violating its own 3-day ceasefire
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha says Russia committed 734 ceasefire violations in just 12 hours.
Before he was pope, Leo criticised Trump, and MAGA is not amused
His social media musings have pulled him into the maelstrom of divided US politics.
Morning Report Essentials for Friday 9 May 2025
In today's episode, a new Pope has been found, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV, booze industry lobbyists have been given input into the development of alcohol policies, including… Audio
US military to start kicking out transgender troops next month
The US Supreme Court's ruling this week cleared the way for a ban to take effect.
Trump heralds 'breakthrough' deal with UK
It's the first deal that's been made since the US president triggered a global trade war.
US and UK announce new trade deal
US President Donald Trump has announced that a trade deal has been agreed with the United Kingdom. Correspondent Simon Marks spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss. Audio
Trump will announce a ‘major trade deal’ with the UK Thursday
It's yet another sign of some possible relief from historically high tariffs that have threatened serious damage to the US and global economies.
Battle lines drawn over what NZ can learn from Australia's election
What caused a landslide victory for Anthony Albanese and Labor? The answer depends on which Kiwi politician you ask. Audio
Israeli families angry after Trump disclosure on more hostage deaths
Families of 7 October hostages held in Gaza are demanding any new information from the Israeli government.
India and Pakistan exchange threats as death toll rises after missile attacks
India told more than a dozen foreign envoys in New Delhi that "if Pakistan responds, India will respond". Audio
NZ Film Commission looks to strengthen ties with India and Europe
The New Zealand Film Commission is working to strengthen ties with India and Europe as the United States threatens to slap a 100 percent tariff on any films made here. Film Commission chief executive… Audio